CELPIP General vs CELPIP General-LS

One test for immigration, one for citizenship — here is which you need.

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CELPIP General

CELPIP General tests all four skills — Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking — and is the version accepted by IRCC for Express Entry, PNPs and most permanent-residence pathways. It is also the DHA-approved version for Australia.

CELPIP General-LS

CELPIP General-LS tests only Listening and Speaking. It exists for Canadian citizenship applications, which require proof of listening and speaking ability but not reading or writing.

Side by side

CELPIP GeneralCELPIP General-LS
SkillsAll 4Listening + Speaking
Used forExpress Entry, PNPs, PR, AustraliaCanadian citizenship
TimeAbout 3 hoursAbout 1 hour
Score1-12 per skill (CLB)1-12 per skill (CLB)

Which do you need?

If you are applying for permanent residence or an Australian visa, book CELPIP General. If you are already a PR applying for citizenship, you may only need CELPIP General-LS. Confirm the exact requirement on the IRCC site for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between CELPIP General and General-LS?

General tests all four skills for immigration; General-LS tests only Listening and Speaking for citizenship.

Which CELPIP do I need for citizenship?

Usually CELPIP General-LS (Listening + Speaking). Check the current IRCC citizenship language requirement.

Which CELPIP do I need for Express Entry?

CELPIP General (all four skills).

Is General-LS enough for Express Entry?

No. Express Entry requires all four skills, so you need CELPIP General.

Related guides

PrepSettle is an independent practice site. Score requirements and recognition rules change — always confirm the current details on the official sources linked below (celpip.ca, canada.ca, immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) before you book a test.