If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada, one of the first requirements you need to meet is language proficiency. Canadian laws require that all immigrants must prove their ability to speak, read, write, and listen in either English or French. Previously there were three major language tests in Canada: IELTS, CELPIP, and TEF. Now there is a new language test called PTE. We will cover all the details related to these tests in this insightful blog!

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

The IELTS is not only a widely recognised language test used for Canadian immigration but for other countries as well. It tests your proficiency in the English language and is available in two formats: academic and general. 

The academic IELTS is for people who want a Canada study visa at a university or college in Canada, while the general test is for those who want to work or immigrate to Canada. 
Here are some features of the test:

• The IELTS test has four modules: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
• The test takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete.
• You can take the speaking component up to seven days before or after the other three components.
• The test costs around $300.
• Results are typically available within 3-5 days for computer-based tests and 13 days for paper-based tests.

CELPIP: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program

CELPIP is another language test designed for Canadian immigration purposes. Unlike the IELTS, which tests international English proficiency, the CELPIP was designed for Canadian English, which includes elements of British and American English and Canadian accents. 
The CELPIP offers two test types: the General Test and the General LS Test. 
For immigration purposes, you have to take the CELPIP – General Test.

Originally, CELPIP could only be taken from within Canada, but it now has international test centers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Republic of Korea, Singapore, the Philippines, India, China, and the United States.

TEF: Test d’évaluation de français

If you’re a native French speaker or prefer to submit language test results demonstrating French proficiency, you must take the TEF. There are two types of TEF available: the TEF and the TEFAQ. We usually recommend taking the TEF since it’s accepted by both Quebec and federal immigration. The TEFAQ, on the other hand, is only accepted for Quebec immigration.
The TEF test consists of three written sections: reading comprehension, written expression and vocabulary, and sections, and two oral sections: listening comprehension and oral expression. Depending on your situation, some sections may be optional. Each section can vary between 15, 40, or 60 minutes, and the cost of the TEF depends on the location where the test is being given.