CELPIP Speaking takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You answer 8 scored tasks, plus one unscored practice task, by speaking into a microphone. Each task gives you 30 or 60 seconds to prepare and 60 or 90 seconds to speak. Your recording is scored later by trained raters.
The 8 Speaking tasks
| Task | Name on the test | Prepare (sec) | Speak (sec) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practice (not scored) | Practice Task | 30 | 60 |
| 1 | Giving Advice | 30 | 90 |
| 2 | Talking about a Personal Experience | 30 | 60 |
| 3 | Describing a Scene | 30 | 60 |
| 4 | Making Predictions | 30 | 60 |
| 5 | Comparing and Persuading | 60 + 60 | 60 |
| 6 | Dealing with a Difficult Situation | 60 | 60 |
| 7 | Expressing Opinions | 30 | 90 |
| 8 | Describing an Unusual Situation | 30 | 60 |
How your answers are scored
Raters score four areas: Content and Coherence (are your ideas clear and organised?), Vocabulary (do you use a range of precise words?), Listenability (grammar, pronunciation and fluency) and Task Fulfillment (did you answer what was asked, in the right tone and length?).
You don't need a perfect accent. Clear, organised answers that use the full time score better than fast, nervous ones.
Tips from our instructors
- Use the preparation time to plan 2 or 3 points, not full sentences.
- Use one simple structure for most tasks: answer the question, give a reason or example, then wrap up.
- Keep speaking until the timer ends. Stopping early leaves points on the table.
- In Describing a Scene and Describing an Unusual Situation, start with the overall picture, then move to details.
- In Comparing and Persuading, choose your option quickly, then compare it directly with the other one.
- Don't memorise whole scripts. Raters notice, and it lowers your Task Fulfillment score.
- Practise with a timer and record yourself. Listening back is the fastest way to find your habits.
FAQ
Can I take notes during CELPIP Speaking?
Yes. The test centre gives you something to write on, and you can make notes during the preparation time.
Is CELPIP Speaking face-to-face?
No. You speak into a headset microphone at a computer, and the recording is scored later.
Test rules change. Always confirm details on celpip.ca and the IRCC website.
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