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