Test Descriptions

Scoring

CELPIP test score levels are based on a complex set of evaluation standards as outlined below. (Further on, you will find a table of proficiency score levels and their descriptors.)

Evaluating Reading Proficiency (CELPIT-G & -A)

Scoring is based on an evaluation of reading competency for various reading tasks. The evaluation assesses the level of reading comprehension based on an examinee’s demonstrated ability to perform the following:

• Identify the overall meaning or purpose of textual material
• Locate specific information
• Compare or integrate several pieces of information
• Comprehend main ideas
• Comprehend supporting details
• Interpret and use information found in the textual material

CELPIT-G reading tasks include both formatted and unformatted text. Examples of unformatted text are social interaction messages, business letters or messages, passages, as well as other informational text. Examples of formatted text are charts, tables, agendas, diagrams, maps, classified ads, sets of instructions, and forms such as invoices, licenses, and warranties.

CELPIT-A reading tasks include identifying errors in sentence structure, identifying errors in English usage, and summarizing short prose passages.

Evaluating Writing Proficiency (CELPIT-G & -A)

Scoring is based on an evaluation of writing competency for various writing tasks. The evaluation assesses the examinee’s level of writing competency in each of the following:

• Expression of ideas and factual information
• Use of grammar, syntax, and punctuation
• Demonstration of organization and coherence
• Demonstration of diction, idiom, and development

CELPIT-G writing tasks include writing letters or other social messages, responding to business messages or requests, and giving information about processes, events, attitudes, or people.

CELPIT-A writing tasks include summarizing and answering questions related to short prose passages and writing an expository essay.

Evaluating Speaking Proficiency (CELTOP)

Scoring is based on an evaluation of speaking competency for various oral tasks. The evaluation considers the speaker’s overall organization, coherence, and fluency. Scores are given for each of the following four elements:

• Intelligibility
• Grammar
• Comprehension
• Clarity

CELTOP speaking tasks include answering questions, summarizing, paraphrasing, and talking about a subject in response to instructions or passages which the examinee will hear read aloud. As well, the examinee is expected to be able to convey information and engage in a presentation that may demand persuasion, analysis, or criticism.

Evaluating Listening Proficiency (CELL)

Scoring is based on an evaluation of listening comprehension for various listening tasks. The evaluation assesses the examinee’s level of listening competency in terms of the following:

• Comprehension of the overall meaning of an oral text
• Comprehension of vocabulary and grammar cues
• Comprehension of specific details and relevant points
• Demonstration of the ability to compare and integrate information

CELL listening tasks include listening to messages, instructions, public announcements, dialogues, and general everyday transactions.

Proficiency score levels and their descriptors

Security

Tests are administered in high-security group or individual settings, and score reports are usually available within three to four weeks of a sitting. Results are sent to examinees and can also be accessed by examinees or the receiving institution over the Internet using the examinee's Registration Number and Personal Identification Number (PIN). On request, Paragon Testing Enterprises Inc. will send an Official Score Report directly to the institutions or government agencies as requested by an examinee.

CELPIP and CIC

Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) has approved the CELPIP tests as measures of English language proficiency for the Skilled Workers and Professionals Class, and awards immigration points based upon CELPIP test score levels.

Language proficiency is one of the six selection factors for immigrants to Canada. Immigrants can be awarded points for basic, moderate, or high abilities in English and French. They are given points based on their abilities to:

• listen
• speak
• read
• write

Below is the Test Score Equivalency Chart outlining the number of immigration points given for each CELPIP score level.
Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP): Test Score Equivalency Chart

Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level	Points (per ability)	CELPIP Scores for each Ability
		Speaking	Listening	Reading	Writing
High: Can communicate effectively in most social and work situations.	First Official Language: 4 points	4 High to 6	4 High to 6	4 High to 6	4 High to 6
	Second Official Language: 2 points
Moderate: Can communicate comfortably in familiar social and work situations.	2 points	3 High to 4 Low	3 High to 4 Low	3 High to 4 Low	3 High to 4 Low
Basic: Can communicate in predictable contexts and on familiar topics, but with some difficulty.	1 Point (To a Maximum of 2)	2 High to 3 Low	2 High to 3 Low	2 High to 3 Low	2 High to 3 Low
None: Does not meet the above criteria for basic proficiency.	0 points	0 to 2 Low	0 to 2 Low	0 to 2 Low	0 to 2 Low

Note: CIC does not automatically waive immigration applicant interviews for applicants who take approved language tests such as CELPIP. The results from CELPIP testing are used to assign language points, but CIC may still require that applicants appear for personal interviews.

CELPIP and UBC

Before admission to the University of British Columbia, international students must demonstrate competence in the English language, regardless of their country of origin or citizenship status. One of the ways to demonstrate competence is to achieve a minimum of 4L in the CELPIT-A, CELL, and CELTOP.

Note: The minimum 4L achievement is required for admission to the University of British Columbia; individual faculties/departments may require higher levels. (Example: For entry into first-year English courses, a minimum of 5 is required on the CELPIT-A.)