Understanding the Difference Between IELTS, CELPIP, and PTE-Core

​

If you're planning to study, work, or immigrate to an English-speaking country, proving your English proficiency is often a key requirement. Three popular tests for this purpose are IELTS, CELPIP, and PTE-Core. While they all assess your ability to use English, they differ in format, purpose, and delivery. Let’s break it down.

​

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

​

• What is it? IELTS is one of the most widely recognized English proficiency tests, accepted by institutions and governments globally, especially in the UK, Australia, and Canada.

• Types: It offers two versions: Academic (for students) and General Training (for immigration or work).

• Format: Paper-based or computer-based, with four sections—Listening (30 mins), Reading (60 mins), Writing (60 mins), and Speaking (11-14 mins, conducted face-to-face with an examiner).

• Scoring: Bands from 0 to 9, with half-band increments (e.g., 6.5).

• Key Feature: The face-to-face Speaking test makes it unique, emphasizing real-life conversation skills.

• Best for: Those applying to universities or seeking visas in countries like the UK and Australia.

 

2. CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)

​

• What is it? Designed specifically for Canadian immigration and citizenship, CELPIP is fully computer-based and tailored to North American English.

• Types: CELPIP-General (for permanent residency and citizenship) and CELPIP-LS (for citizenship only, testing Listening and Speaking).

• Format: Listening (47-55 mins), Reading (55-60 mins), Writing (53-60 mins), and Speaking (15-20 mins), all done on a computer with automated scoring for Speaking.

• Scoring: Levels 1 to 12, aligned with Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB).

• Key Feature: Uses Canadian accents and contexts, making it ideal for those immigrating to Canada.

• Best for: Canadian Permanent Residency applicants or those comfortable with digital testing.

 

3. PTE-Core (Pearson Test of English - Core)

​

• What is it? A newer test by Pearson, PTE-Core is aimed at immigration and work purposes, particularly for Canada, and is fully computer-based.

• Format: Three sections—Speaking & Writing (combined, ~50 mins), Reading (30 mins), and Listening (30 mins)—delivered in a single sitting of about 2 hours.

• Scoring: Scores range from 10 to 90, mapped to CLB levels for Canadian immigration.

• Key Feature: AI-driven scoring ensures consistency, and it’s shorter than IELTS or CELPIP.

• Best for: Those seeking a fast, tech-savvy option for Canadian immigration or work permits.

 

Key Differences at a Glance

​

Feature                   IELTS                                 CELPIP                                  PTE-Core

Delivery                   Paper or Computer        Computer only                    Computer only

Speaking Test         Face-to-face                     Computer-recorded           Computer-recorded

Duration                  ~2 hrs 45 mins                ~3 hrs                                    ~2 hrs

Accent Focus          British/Australian            Canadian                              Mixed (Global)

Primary Use            Global (Study/Work)       Canadian Immigration       Canadian Immigration

Scoring System      0-9 Bands                          CLB 1-12                              10-90 Points

 

Which Test Should You Choose?

​

• IELTS is your go-to if you need a globally recognized test or prefer a human examiner for the Speaking section.

• CELPIP suits those targeting Canadian immigration and who are comfortable with Canadian English and a fully digital format.

• PTE-Core is ideal if you want a quick, AI-scored test tailored for Canadian immigration with a shorter duration.

 

Ultimately, your choice depends on your destination, comfort with technology, and specific immigration or academic requirements. Check with your institution or immigration authority to confirm which test they accept, and prepare accordingly!