CELPIP Writing has two tasks and takes about 53 to 60 minutes. Task 1 is an email (27 minutes, 150 to 200 words). Task 2 asks you to choose an option in a survey and explain why (26 minutes, 150 to 200 words). You type your answers on a computer.
Task 1: Writing an Email
You read a short situation, such as a problem with a neighbour or a request to your employer, and write an email that covers all three points listed under it.
- Greeting that fits the reader (formal for a manager or company, friendly for a friend).
- One opening sentence that says why you are writing.
- One short paragraph for each of the three points.
- A closing sentence with a clear request or next step.
- Sign-off and your name.
Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions
You read a question with two options, choose one, and explain your choice as if answering a community or workplace survey.
- State your choice in the first sentence.
- First reason, with a specific example.
- Second reason, with a specific example.
- Briefly say why the other option is weaker.
- One-sentence conclusion that repeats your choice.
How your writing is scored
Raters score Content and Coherence, Vocabulary, Readability (grammar, spelling, punctuation and paragraphs) and Task Fulfillment (did you cover every point, in the right tone and length?).
Tips from our instructors
- Cover every bullet point in Task 1. A missing point is the most common way to lose marks.
- Stay between 150 and 200 words. Much shorter looks incomplete; much longer leaves less time to check.
- Match your tone to the reader: you wouldn't write to a landlord the way you write to a friend.
- Use paragraphs. They make your answer easier to read and score.
- Keep the last 3 minutes to proofread for spelling, articles and verb tenses.
- Learn the structures above, but write your own sentences. Memorised templates are easy to spot.
FAQ
Can I choose either option in Task 2?
Yes. Neither option is right or wrong. Pick the one you can support with better examples.
Does handwriting matter?
No. You type both answers on a computer.
Test rules change. Always confirm details on celpip.ca and the IRCC website.
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