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The short version
Four parts: listening, reading, writing and speaking. All on a computer, all in one sitting. CELPIP-General LS has only the listening and speaking parts.
CELPIP-General at a glance
| Part | Time | What's in it |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 46 to 55 minutes | 6 parts: problem solving, a daily-life conversation, listening for information, a news item, a discussion and viewpoints |
| Reading | 43 to 56 minutes | 4 parts: correspondence, applying a diagram, reading for information and viewpoints |
| Writing | 53 minutes | 2 tasks: an email and a survey response |
| Speaking | About 15 minutes | 8 short tasks, from giving advice to describing an unusual situation |
Three things that surprise people
- Plan to hear listening audio one time, and check CELPIP's current instructions for replay rules.
- Speaking is recorded on the computer. There's no examiner in the room to talk to.
- Listening and reading may include unscored questions, and you can't tell which ones they are. Give every question your best try.
What's different in CELPIP-General LS
LS is just the listening and speaking parts, about 1 hour 10 minutes in total. It's accepted for citizenship, where you need level 4 in both skills. It isn't accepted for Express Entry. More on that in the citizenship guide.
Practise with the real timings
- Speaking: the speaking timer has each task's prep and speaking time built in.
- Writing: the writing timer and word counter helps you check length against roughly 150 to 200 words; check celpip.ca for the current format.
- Everything else: start with the free practice set, then a full timed mock.
Questions
Are there unscored questions?
CELPIP says listening and reading may include some, and you can't tell which.
Can I take notes?
Check the current test-day instructions from CELPIP for what's allowed at your sitting.
Is this an official CELPIP page?
No. This is an independent guide. Use CELPIP and IRCC for registration and immigration decisions.
Sources (checked 26 October 2026)
- CELPIP Test Format & Scoring
- CELPIP Test Overview
- CELPIP Results
- IRCC citizenship language proof, Step 5
Last reviewed 26 October 2026
Independent practice. Not affiliated with Paragon Testing Enterprises or the CELPIP test.
See where you stand today
The free practice set takes about 15 minutes. No card needed.
Try the free practice set