CELPIP Writing Score Guide: Score Chart & Comparison with IELTS, TOEFL, and CLB

The CELPIP Writing test measures your written English proficiency, essential for Canadian immigration, education, or professional purposes. This guide explains how CELPIP Writing scores align with Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels, IELTS scores, and TOEFL scores, helping you interpret your writing proficiency and set achievable goals.

CELPIP Writing Scoring Criteria

Your CELPIP Writing responses are evaluated based on four key criteria:

  • Content/Coherence: Organization, relevance, and development of your ideas.
  • Vocabulary: Range and accuracy of your word choice.
  • Readability: Grammar, sentence structure, formatting, spelling, and punctuation.
  • Task Fulfillment: Completeness, tone, relevance, and addressing all aspects of the task.

These criteria determine your overall CELPIP Writing Level, ranging from M (minimal proficiency) to 12 (advanced proficiency).

CELPIP Writing and CLB Equivalency

CELPIP Writing scores align directly with the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB):

CELPIP LevelCLB LevelDescription
1212Advanced proficiency
1111Advanced proficiency
1010Highly effective proficiency
99Effective proficiency
88Good proficiency
77Adequate proficiency
66Developing proficiency
55Acquiring proficiency
44Adequate proficiency for daily activities
33Limited proficiency
M0-2Minimal proficiency or insufficient information

CELPIP Writing vs. IELTS Writing Scores

Here's how CELPIP Writing scores compare to IELTS Writing band scores:

CELPIP LevelIELTS Writing Band
129.0
118.5
108.0
97.5
87.0
76.5
66.0
55.5
45.0
34.5
MBelow 4.5

CELPIP Writing vs. TOEFL iBT Writing Scores

Here's how CELPIP Writing scores approximately align with TOEFL iBT Writing scores:

CELPIP LevelTOEFL iBT Writing Score
1230
1128-29
1026-27
924-25
822-23
720-21
618-19
516-17
414-15
312-13
MBelow 12

Practical Tips to Improve Your CELPIP Writing Score

To achieve a higher CELPIP Writing score, follow these effective tips:

  • Practice writing regularly: Regular practice helps improve your writing skills and confidence.
  • Enhance your vocabulary: Use a variety of words accurately and appropriately.
  • Develop clear organization: Structure your writing clearly with paragraphs and logical flow.
  • Review grammar and syntax: Ensure sentences are correct, clear, and varied in structure.
  • Proofread your responses: Always check for spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors.

Regularly applying these strategies can significantly improve your writing abilities and help you achieve your desired CELPIP Writing score.

Understanding CELPIP Writing scores and their relationship with CLB, IELTS, and TOEFL scores gives you a clear framework to evaluate and enhance your English writing proficiency. Continuous practice and adherence to CELPIP scoring criteria will set you on the path to achieving your academic, immigration, or professional goals.