You are ready to book your English test. You go to the website, credit card in hand. Suddenly, you see two options: CELPIP General and CELPIP General LS.
Immediately, you hesitate. One is cheaper. One is shorter. But which one is right for your application?
Undoubtedly, choosing the wrong test is a costly mistake. If you book the LS when you need the General, immigration will reject your application. Conversely, booking the General when you only need the LS is a waste of time and money.
Below is the definitive guide to CELPIP General vs CELPIP LS so you can book with confidence.
The Core Difference: Purpose (PR vs. Citizenship)
First, let’s look at why you are taking the test. This is the main deciding factor.
- CELPIP General: This is the “standard” test. Specifically, it is required for Permanent Residency (PR) applications, such as Express Entry, the Federal Skilled Worker Program, and the CEC.
- CELPIP General LS: The “LS” stands for Listening and Speaking. Exclusively, this test is accepted for Canadian Citizenship applications.
Therefore, the rule is simple: If you want PR, you must take the General. If you already have PR and are applying for Citizenship, you can take the LS.
Format Comparison: 4 Skills vs. 2 Skills
Next, let’s compare the actual exam experience. Surprisingly, the difference in difficulty is significant because the LS removes the two hardest sections.
CELPIP General (The Full Test)
- Duration: ~3 hours.
- Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
- Difficulty: Higher. You must write emails, respond to surveys, and read complex texts.
CELPIP General LS (The “Light” Version)
- Duration: ~1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Sections: Listening and Speaking only.
- Difficulty: Lower. Crucially, there is no Reading and no Writing section.
Consequently, if you are eligible for the LS, it is a much easier experience. You walk in, complete the audio/verbal tasks, and leave in just over an hour.
Cost Comparison: Save Your Money
Furthermore, the price difference is a major factor for many applicants.
- CELPIP General: Approximately $280 CAD (+ tax).
- CELPIP General LS: Approximately $195 CAD (+ tax).
Obviously, saving nearly $100 is attractive. However, do not let the price tempt you into booking the wrong test. Unfortunately, IRCC is very strict. You cannot use the LS for Express Entry just to save money.
Can I Take the General for Citizenship?
Yes. This is a common question.
If you took the CELPIP General for your PR application 2 years ago, can you use those results for Citizenship?
Typically, yes, if the results are still valid (usually less than 2 years old) or if you submit them as proof of past language ability (check specific IRCC rules for your case). However, if you are booking a new test specifically for Citizenship, there is absolutely no reason to take the full General test. Stick to the CELPIP General vs CELPIP LS winner: the LS.
Don’t Study What You Don’t Need
Ultimately, knowing which test to take changes how you study.
If you are taking the LS, studying “Writing Task 2” is a complete waste of your time. Conversely, if you are taking the General, ignoring the Reading section guarantees failure.
Consequently, you need a study plan that matches your specific exam.
This is where Exam Hero excels.
- Customized Training: When you sign up, you select your test type. Our AI instantly hides the sections you don’t need.
- Targeted Practice: LS students focus 100% on Listening and Speaking. General students get the full 4-skill workout.
- Smart Feedback: Whether you are practicing for PR or Citizenship, our AI rates your speaking to ensure you hit the CLB level you need.
[Select your test and start your custom study plan with Exam Hero.]
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