You can now take IELTS and CELPIP tests for Canadian Express Entry

Those vying to get permanent residency via the Canadian Express Entry can now access test dates for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP).

These English tests are accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). However, since test centres were closed for COVID-19, many individuals could not complete their profile and applications with test scores.

International students who go on to become skilled workers in Canada can apply to become a permanent resident online via the Canadian Express Entry.

This is the pathway into one of the three economic immigration programmes: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

Skilled international workers in Canada can apply to become a permanent resident online via the Canadian Express Entry. Source: Pixabay

IELTS for Canadian Express Entry

When centres around the world closed for the pandemic, candidates could only take the IELTS online. As of 18 June, however, test centres have reopened in 80 “safe” locations worldwide.

Tests are available in leading source countries of immigrants to Canada, such as:

• Australia
• Bangladesh
• Brazil
• Colombia
• Egypt
• France
• Hong Kong
• India
• Lebanon
• Mexico
• Nigeria
• Pakistan
• Russia
• Saudi Arabia
• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates
• Vietnam

Check the full list for Canada here to identify your nearest centre.

CELPIP for Canadian Express Entry

As of June 15, you can take the CELPIP in six countries:

• Canada (British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Yukon)
• United States (Texas, California, Virginia)
• China (Hong Kong)
• Philippines (Manila)
• United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
• India (Chandigarh)

Check testing availability and closure here.

Canada is known for welcoming immigrants and asylum seekers, such as 18-year-old Rahaf Mohammed al-Qunun (centre) who fled from Saudi Arabia in 2019. Source: Cole Burston/Getty Images North America/Getty Images via AFP

Prepare your profile now

Your Express Entry profile will come in handy when applying for the FSWP or FSTP economic immigration programmes. Therefore, you’ll want to tick all boxes — including the English qualification — before the IRCC draws for these programmes resume.

Those in Canada are at an advantage. You may be called to apply for permanent residency under Express Entry “within days of submitting your profile,” according to the official website.

Visit the website for more on the Canadian Express Entry, or check your eligibility for immigration programmes here.

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