Test Tips: What to Consider Before Choosing an English Test

If you’re planning to study, work, or immigrate to an English-speaking country, chances are you’ll need to prove your English proficiency. Two of the most common options—especially for people focused on Canada—are IELTS and CELPIP.

A common misconception is that one test is better than the other. In reality, IELTS and CELPIP are both highly accredited, internationally recognized exams, and neither is inherently superior. The right choice depends entirely on your goals, your situation, and how you personally perform on tests.

This post walks you through the key factors to consider so you can choose the test that best matches your needs.

Purpose of the Test: Why Are You Taking It?

The first—and most important—question is what you need the test for.

IELTS is commonly used for:

  • University and college admissions worldwide

  • Professional licensing (medicine, nursing, engineering, etc.)

  • Immigration to multiple countries (Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand)

CELPIP is primarily used for:

  • Canadian immigration (Express Entry, PR, citizenship)

  • Some Canadian employers and professional organizations

✅ If your plans may change internationally, IELTS often provides more flexibility.
✅ If your focus is strictly Canada, CELPIP may be fully sufficient.

Where the Test Is Accepted

Both tests are well respected, but their acceptance differs by institution and country.

  • IELTS is accepted by thousands of organizations globally.

  • CELPIP is mainly accepted in Canada.

Before choosing, always:

  • Check the exact requirements of the institution, immigration program, or employer

  • Confirm which test versions are accepted (Academic vs. General, etc.)

💡 Never assume both tests are interchangeable—always verify first.

Test Format and Delivery

How a test is designed can significantly affect your performance.

IELTS Format

  • Available as paper-based or computer-delivered

  • Speaking test is a live interview with an examiner

  • Can be taken in many locations worldwide

CELPIP Format

  • Fully computer-based

  • Speaking is recorded and assessed later

  • Taken mostly in Canada and a few international locations

If you prefer face-to-face interaction, IELTS speaking may feel more natural, but if you’re comfortable with recording responses on a computer, CELPIP may feel less stressful.

Accent, Language Variety, and Question Style

IELTS

  • Uses a variety of English accents (British, Australian, Canadian, etc.)

  • Academic reading texts can feel more traditional or formal

  • Writing tasks may involve graphs, essays, or formal arguments

CELPIP

  • Uses Canadian English only

  • Emphasizes everyday workplace and social scenarios

  • Writing and speaking tasks are often practical and task-based

If you’re familiar with Canadian culture and vocabulary, CELPIP may feel intuitive, but if you’re used to international or academic English, IELTS may suit you better.

Scoring Systems and Interpretation

The tests use different scoring scales, but both clearly map to proficiency levels.

  • IELTS: Band scores from 1–9

  • CELPIP: Levels from 1–12

Neither scoring system is easier or harder by design. What matters is:

  • How scores are interpreted by your target institution

  • How your strengths (writing, speaking, listening, reading) align with the test format

Preparation Style and Available Resources

IELTS Preparation

  • Decades of official practice materials

  • Widely available courses, tutors, and books

  • Familiar format for many test-takers worldwide

CELPIP Preparation

  • More focused official resources

  • Preparation often emphasizes task strategy and time management

  • Especially helpful for those planning Canada-focused immigration

If you benefit from extensive practice options, IELTS offers more variety, but if you prefer a clear, standardized prep system, CELPIP can be more straightforward.

Personal Test-Taking Strengths

Finally, be honest about how you perform under pressure.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I speak better in conversation or when recording alone?

  • Do I prefer handwriting or typing?

  • Am I stronger with academic texts or practical, everyday English?

  • Do I feel more confident interacting with a human examiner or a computer?

There is no “one-size-fits-all” answer—your comfort matters.

Final Thoughts: It’s About Fit, Not Superiority

IELTS and CELPIP are both reliable, respected, and well-designed language tests. One is not better than the other. What does matter is choosing the exam that:

  • Is accepted for your specific goal

  • Matches your test-taking style

  • Aligns with your future plans

Taking the time to choose wisely can reduce stress, improve your performance, and help you reach your goal more efficiently.

Zach J