CELPIP Speaking Test: The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) is one of the most popular English tests used in Canada. Many people take it for immigration, citizenship, and job applications. One important part of this test is the CELPIP Speaking Test, which checks how well you can communicate in real-life situations.
The Speaking section has eight tasks, and each task focuses on a different communication skill such as describing, advising, comparing, or expressing opinions. Knowing the common topics can help you prepare more effectively.
Common Topics in the CELPIP Speaking Test
Here are some of the most frequent topics and what you should know about them:
1. Giving Advice
You may be asked to help someone by giving them advice about everyday situations. Topics often include:
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How to deal with a problem at work
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How to improve English
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Choosing a career path
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Travel, health, or daily life issues
How to prepare:
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Practice using advice expressions such as:
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“If I were you, I would…”
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“You should…”
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“It might help if…”
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Think of simple real-life scenarios and give advice naturally.
2. Talking About Personal Experiences
You may be asked to describe something you experienced, such as:
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A new skill you learned
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A challenge you overcame
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A memorable trip
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Your hobbies or special events
How to prepare:
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Think of meaningful experiences from your life.
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Use descriptive language to explain what happened, how you felt, and what you learned.
3. Describing a Scene
You might be shown a picture or asked to describe an everyday environment.
How to prepare:
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Practice describing things using adjectives:
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Colors
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Shapes
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Sizes
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Emotions
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Focus on small details to create a clear picture.
4. Making Predictions
Some tasks ask about your future plans or what you think may happen in different situations.
Common topics include:
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Career goals
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Future travel
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Personal plans
How to prepare:
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Practice using future tense, such as “will,” “going to,” and conditionals like “might.”
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Think about your long-term goals and speak confidently about them.
5. Comparing and Persuading
You may need to compare two options and convince someone to choose your preferred option.
Examples:
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Two job offers
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Two cities
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Two vacation ideas
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Two products
How to prepare:
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Use comparative and superlative forms:
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“Better,” “more affordable,” “faster,” “the best”
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Practice giving reasons for your choice to persuade the listener.
6. Handling a Difficult Situation
You might be asked to explain how you dealt with a problem or conflict, such as:
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A misunderstanding
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A workplace issue
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A stressful event
How to prepare:
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Structure your story with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
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Use the right past tense verbs when telling your story.
7. Sharing an Opinion
Many tasks ask you to express your opinion on everyday topics.
Some common themes:
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Social media
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News and current events
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Technology
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Hobbies
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Lifestyle choices
How to prepare:
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Practice giving strong reasons to support your opinion.
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Use linking words such as “firstly,” “however,” and “in my opinion.”
8. Describing an Unusual Situation
You may be asked to talk about something surprising or unexpected that happened to you.
How to prepare:
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Practice describing strange or unexpected events clearly.
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Focus on the sequence of events and how you felt.
Tips to Prepare for the CELPIP Speaking Test
Here are some effective ways to get ready:
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Understand the test format – There are eight tasks with different purposes and time limits.
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Speak English daily – Talk with friends, family, tutors, or even practice alone.
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Use a wide range of vocabulary – Avoid repeating the same words. Here are some best ways to improve your Vocabulary, that will help you to score more in CELPIP Speaking Test.
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Be clear and concise – Speak at a natural pace and avoid long, confusing sentences.
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Stay confident – Even if you make mistakes, keep going.
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Record yourself – Check your fluency, tone, and pronunciation.
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Manage your time – Practice completing tasks within the time limits.
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CELPIP Speaking Test – Questions and Answers
1. What is the CELPIP Speaking Test?
It is part of the CELPIP exam used in Canada for immigration, citizenship, and employment. It measures your ability to speak and understand English.
2. What is the format of the Speaking Test?
It includes eight tasks that check skills such as:
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Giving advice
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Sharing experiences
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Making predictions
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Comparing options
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Handling tough situations
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Sharing opinions
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Describing unusual situations
3. How can I prepare for the test?
You can prepare by:
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Learning the format
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Speaking English regularly
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Improving vocabulary and grammar
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Practicing with sample questions
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Recording yourself
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Using time wisely
4. Where can I find study materials?
You can use:
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The official CELPIP website
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Test preparation books
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Online practice platforms
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YouTube tutorials and sample responses
5. How is the test scored?
Raters evaluate your responses based on clarity, fluency, vocabulary, and how well you complete each task.
6. Is there a pass/fail score?
No. CELPIP scores range from low to high proficiency. There is no pass or fail.
7. How long does the Speaking Test take?
About 20–25 minutes, depending on the task.
8. Can I retake the test?
Yes, you can retake it as many times as needed, but fees apply.
9. How long is a CELPIP score valid?
Scores are valid for two years.
10. What is the difference between CELPIP General and CELPIP General LS?
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CELPIP General: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
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CELPIP General LS: Only Listening and Speaking
