Here at Visto, we aim to provide as much information as possible on the different options in the Express Entry process. In this post, we hear from the folks at Paragon – who administer the CELPIP language exam – to learn more about the exam and its benefits so you can decide whether it’s the right choice for you!
Paragon Testing Enterprises administers the CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) Test, which is a fully Canadian English proficiency test that is officially recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for Canadian Permanent Residency and Citizenship. The test was originally developed by the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Paragon is a private subsidiary of UBC.
Being fully Canadian means the English and accents used throughout the test are Canadian or North American. This is especially beneficial during the Listening section, where one may find a Canadian accent more familiar and sensible to starting a future in Canada. Each test taker will also be given their own headset where the volume levels can be adjusted according to personal preference, allowing for a more comfortable testing experience!
In today’s day and age, the world is becoming increasingly more technology-driven and the CELPIP Test, since it started in 2009, has been perfecting the computer-delivered English proficiency testing experience. CELPIP being fully computer-delivered has several distinct advantages. One advantage is that the entire test is taken manually by the test taker within 3 hours. There won’t be a need to wait around to complete a separate speaking interview as the interview is a recording, not an appointment. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about the anxieties of an in-person speaking evaluation!
Quick results – Scores are made available to the test taker in only 4 to 5 calendar days after one’s test. We know that waiting in anticipation for your scores can be a frustrating experience, this will cut down the time spent in anxious wait.
The content in the CELPIP Test focuses on everyday life situations as this is a General (not Academic) proficiency test. This means that test takers will be questioned on scenarios and topics that they will find familiar in their everyday lives, regardless of their country of origin or background. The more familiar you are with the questions, the better chance you have of performing well!
Thinking of taking CELPIP for your Canadian citizenship application? You’re in the right place! CELPIP LS offers a special citizenship-focused test, where you will only take the two required sections mandated by the Federal government – Listening and Speaking. This means the test is a lot shorter and cheaper as well, with CELPIP LS costing only $195.00 plus tax. The test is only 1 hour long so that you can enjoy the rest of your day!
The Writing section experience in CELPIP is very similar to writing a Word document on the computer, where test takers have access to spellcheck, copy and paste, and other common functions. Yes, you heard it right, the real test has these functions available. This may give you an edge in your performance!
Every person that opens a free CELPIP Account, which is the first step in registering for a test, will receive access to many free study products including one sample test and one practice test. These tests are the same exact format of the real test which gives the test taker a really good idea of the test format, determining how much preparation will be required and gives practice answering similar types of questions that would be on the real test!
Find more info on language exams, as well as direct links to Paragon’s resources, in the free Visto portal by signing up here!