IELTS Listening versus CELPIP Listening

IELTS Listening vs. CELPIP Listening

Which English Test Is Right for You? 

(Part 1: Listening)

If you’re planning to take an English proficiency test for immigration, work, or study, you’ve probably looked into IELTS and CELPIP. 

While both tests assess the same four core skills—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—they do so in very different ways. Understanding those differences can help you choose the test that best suits your strengths, background, and goals.

In this 4-part series, we’ll take a closer look at each section of the IELTS and CELPIP exams to help you make an informed decision.

Today, we’re starting with Listening.

Before we dive in:
One of the most important differences between IELTS and CELPIP Listening is how they present the questions. IELTS lets you preview questions before the audio. CELPIP makes you answer after the audio finishes. This simple change can have a big impact on how well you perform.

In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between IELTS and CELPIP Listening, so you can choose the test that suits your strengths.

1. Accent and Language Style

• IELTS features a mix of British, Australian, New Zealand, Canadian, and American accents. Some sections (like lectures or formal discussions) use more academic English.
• CELPIP uses only Canadian accents and focuses on natural, everyday English used in real-life situations.

2. When Do You See the Questions? (Key Test-Taking Difference)

• In IELTS, you see the questions before the audio starts. This gives you time to scan keywords, make predictions, and focus your attention during the recording. 
• In CELPIP, you hear the audio first, and only then are you shown the questions. You’ll need to listen carefully, take notes, and rely on memory to answer correctly.
  

This affects your listening strategy:
IELTS rewards strategic listeners, while CELPIP favors those who can process and recall information in real time.

3. Structure and Sections

• IELTS Listening has 4 sections: 
  • Casual conversation (e.g., booking a room) 
  • Monologue (e.g., a guide giving a tour) 
  • Discussion (e.g., students working on a project) 
  • Academic lecture 
• Total: 40 questions 
• CELPIP Listening has 6 parts, including: 
  • Conversations between co-workers 
  • Everyday problem-solving 
  • Listening to the news or a workplace discussion
    

Total: 38 to 45 questions (varies slightly)

4. Question Format

• IELTS includes a variety of question types: 
  • Multiple choice 
  • Sentence completion 
  • Table/note/summary completion 
  • Matching and diagram labeling 

You sometimes write your answers, and spelling counts.

• CELPIP uses only multiple-choice and matching questions, and everything is click-based. No typing or spelling needed.
  

5. Timing and Answering

• IELTS lasts about 30 minutes, with an extra 10 minutes to transfer your answers (in paper-based tests).
• CELPIP runs about 47–55 minutes. You answer each question as you go—no extra time at the end.

6. Test Environment and Delivery

• IELTS is available in paper-based or computer-based format.
  
• CELPIP is 100% computer-delivered, with an interface designed for fast navigation, note-taking, and mouse-based answering.
  

Quick Comparison Table