Guide · updated 2026-10-15
CELPIP, IELTS General or PTE Core: which should you book?
All three are accepted by IRCC for Express Entry. The best choice depends on the format that suits you and where you can book a test, not on which one is "easier".
| CELPIP-General | IELTS General Training | PTE Core | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accepted version for Express Entry | CELPIP-General | IELTS General Training (not One Skill Retake) | PTE Core (not PTE Academic) |
| Delivery | All on computer, one sitting (about 3 hours) | At a test centre, on computer or on paper | On computer at a test centre (about 2 hours) |
| Speaking | Recorded on the computer | Live with a trained examiner (face-to-face, some centres by video call) | Recorded on the computer |
| Results | Online in 2–4 business days | On computer: usually 1–2 days (up to 5); on paper: 13 days | Usually within 2 business days (up to 5) |
| CLB 9 needs (S / L / R / W) | 9 / 9 / 9 / 9 | 7.0 / 8.0 / 7.0 / 7.0 | 84 / 82 / 78 / 88 |
| Valid for IRCC | Less than 2 years old | Less than 2 years old | Less than 2 years old |
Sources (retrieved 2026-10-15): CELPIP results, CELPIP overview; IELTS results timing, IELTS on computer (British Council); PTE Core (Pearson). Test owners can change formats; check before you book.
Source: IRCC, Express Entry: Language test results (retrieved 2026-10-15). Check IRCC before you rely on a number.
Not sure yet?
Try a timed task in each format, then decide. Plans from CA$39/month.
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