CELPIP vs. IELTS
Australia
Comparison and Differences
Which one is easier?

Both tests are fully accepted for Australian Permanent Residency pathways, including Work visas, Skilled migration, Student visas and Family visas. Always verify specific requirements for your Australian Visa Application subclass on the official DOHA portal.
The computer-delivered CELPIP test is available in major cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth
Scoring Comparison for Australian Immigration
Australia’s immigration landscape relies heavily on a points-based system, where your English proficiency isn't just a requirement—it’s a strategic asset. Higher scores can significantly boost your application's competitiveness:
Choosing between CELPIP and IELTS is a major milestone for your Australian Visa Application. Both tests are widely recognized, but they offer very different experiences. If you are aiming for Australian Permanent Residency, picking the test that plays to your strengths is vital for meeting the standards set by the Department of Home Affairs Australia (DOHA).

This guide compares both options to help you decide which path leads most smoothly to becoming a Permanent Resident (PR) of Australia.

Test Format and Experience
CELPIP is 100% computer-based. You complete all components, including the speaking section, in a single session. For Speaking, you record your answers into a microphone rather than talking to a person.
IELTS offers more variety. You can choose a paper-based or computer-based format. Notably, the speaking test is a face-to-face interview with a human examiner, which can be scheduled on a different day than your written exams.

Which Test is "Easier"?
There is no objective "easy" option; it’s all about your personal style.
  • Choose CELPIP if you are tech-savvy, prefer typing over handwriting, and feel anxious talking to an interviewer.
  • Choose IELTS if you find speaking to a human more natural
FREE CELPIP TESTS