CELPIP General vs. General LS: What's the Difference?
If you're planning to take the CELPIP test, you might be wondering which version is right for you: CELPIP General or CELPIP General LS. These tests serve different purposes, so choosing the right one depends on your goals.
This guide will break down the key differences, test formats, and which one you should take.
What Is CELPIP?
CELPIP stands for the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program. It assesses your ability to use English in everyday life and is widely used for immigration, citizenship, and professional certification in Canada.
There are two versions of the test:
- CELPIP General (assesses all four skills)
- CELPIP General LS (assesses only listening and speaking)
1. CELPIP General
The CELPIP General test evaluates your ability to communicate in English across four key skills:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
Who Should Take CELPIP General?
This version is required for:
- Permanent residency (PR) applications in Canada
- Certain professional certifications (e.g., real estate, healthcare, banking)
Since it tests all four skills, it is ideal for those who need to demonstrate a comprehensive command of English.
Test Format
The CELPIP General test takes about 3 hours and is completed in a single sitting.
| Section | Time Limit | What You'll Do |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 47–55 minutes | Listen to conversations and answer questions. |
| Reading | 55–60 minutes | Read different texts and respond to questions. |
| Writing | 53–60 minutes | Complete two writing tasks (e.g., an email and an opinion piece). |
| Speaking | 15–20 minutes | Respond to different speaking prompts. |
If you need CELPIP for PR or career-related purposes, this is the right test for you.
2. CELPIP General LS
The LS in CELPIP General LS stands for Listening and Speaking. Unlike the General test, this version does not include Reading or Writing.
Who Should Take CELPIP General LS?
This version is designed for:
- Canadian citizenship applications
- Individuals who only need to prove their listening and speaking skills
Since citizenship requirements focus more on your ability to communicate in English, the LS version is shorter and more focused.
Test Format
The CELPIP General LS test is much shorter than the full test, lasting about 1 hour.
| Section | Time Limit | What You'll Do |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 47–55 minutes | Listen to conversations and answer questions. |
| Speaking | 15–20 minutes | Respond to different speaking prompts. |
If you only need to prove your listening and speaking abilities, this test is the better option.
Key Differences Between CELPIP General and General LS
| Feature | CELPIP General | CELPIP General LS |
|---|---|---|
| Skills Tested | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | Listening, Speaking |
| Purpose | PR, professional licenses, work permits | Canadian citizenship applications |
| Test Duration | About 3 hours | About 1 hour |
| Sections Included | 4 sections | 2 sections |
Tips for Choosing the Right Test
- Check the requirements: Verify whether PR, citizenship, or your profession requires the General or General LS test.
- Consider your strengths: If you struggle with Reading and Writing, the General LS might be easier, but you cannot choose based on preference if a specific test is required.
- Prepare in advance: Even if you're confident, practice sample questions to get familiar with the test format.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between CELPIP General and CELPIP General LS depends entirely on why you need the test.
- If you're applying for PR or professional certification, take CELPIP General.
- If you're applying for Canadian citizenship, take CELPIP General LS.
Whichever version you take, preparing well is key. Practice listening and speaking in real-life situations, review sample questions, and stay confident on test day.
Good luck with your CELPIP journey!