If you’re planning to move to Australia, one of the first steps is proving your English language skills. To demonstrate this, you may need to take an English proficiency test.

Two of the most popular tests are the CELPIP (Comprehensive English Language Index Program) and the PTE (Pearson Test of English).

But which one is better for you?

Or which test is easier?

What’s the difference between CELPIP and PTE?

Which one is accepted for Australian immigration?

And how can you choose the right test?

This blog will answer all these questions and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of whether CELPIP or PTE is the better choice for your Australian immigration journey.

The table below shows the key differences between PTE and CELPIP exams. Have a look. 

Here is a detailed overview of the differences between CELPIP and PTE. 

CELPIP Test Format

CELPIP is designed for both study and migration purposes. It is fully computer-based. All sections, including speaking, are completed on a computer.

For the speaking test, you speak into a microphone, and your responses are recorded for evaluation. There’s no human interaction during this section.

PTE Test Format

PTE Academic is the only version available, designed for both study and migration purposes. Like CELPIP, it is fully computer-based. All sections, including speaking, are completed on a computer.

For the speaking test, you speak into a microphone, and your responses are recorded for evaluation. There’s no human interaction during this section.

Both tests follow a similar format, and capture your responses using a computer in a designated testing centre.

Test Sections

Both tests assess your English skills in four areas: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and listening.  However, the way these sections are structured and evaluated differs significantly.

CELPIP Structure

Speaking: A computer-based component, spoken into a microphone headseat. You’ll answer questions about familiar topics, speak at length on a given topic, and discuss abstract ideas.

Writing: In this section you have to complete two tasks.

• Task 1: Describe a picture or respond to a prompt.
• Task 2: Write an email on a given situation. 

Reading: Short passages with multiple-choice answers to a series of questions.

Listening: You’ll listen to recordings and answer multiple-choice questions. 

PTE Structure

Speaking: Includes tasks like reading aloud, repeating sentences, describing images, and answering short questions. All responses are recorded.

Writing: You have to complete two tasks:

• Summarize a written text.
• Write an essay.

Reading: Multiple-choice questions, reorder paragraphs, and fill-in-the-blank exercises.

Listening: Includes summarizing spoken text, multiple-choice questions, and filling in blanks while listening to audio.

Scoring System

CELPIP Scoring System

Each section (Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening) is scored on a scale of 1 to 12. Your overall score is the average of these four scores, and is mapped to the CLB scale, which provides an in-depth description of the proficiency expected at each level.

PTE Scoring System

Each section is scored from 10 to 90, in increments of 1. Your overall score is based on your performance across all sections.

Below is a conversion table that shows the relationship between PTE scores and CELPIP band scores.

 Test Duration

Below is a clear comparison of the total test duration and the time allocated for each section in both tests. 

So, PTE is slightly longer, but you can complete all the sections in one sitting. However, IELTS splits the speaking test, which can be more convenient for you depending on your circumstances.

Test Environment

CELPIP Test Environment

All sections, including speaking, are completed on a computer. This can feel more consistent but may be challenging if you’re not familiar with technology.

PTE Test Environment

As with CELPIP, all sections, including speaking, are completed on a computer. This can feel more consistent but may be challenging if you’re not familiar with technology.

Acceptance for Australian Immigration

Both tests are accepted for Australian immigration purposes, including:

• Skilled Migration
• Student Visas
• Work Visas
• Family Visas

However, some visa types or institutions may have a preference. Therefore, always check the specific requirements for your visa or university.

Scoring Comparison for Australian Immigration

Australia uses a points-based system for immigration. Your English test score can add valuable points to your application. Here’s a comparison of both tests for Australian immigration :

If you want maximum points, check which test aligns better with your strengths.

CELPIP Vs. PTE: Cost and Availability

Both tests are widely available, but costs and locations may vary. Here is a simple breakdown of both: 

• CELPIP costs around AUD 350 and is available in many test centres worldwide.
• PTE costs around AUD 375 and is available in many test centres worldwide.

Which Test is Easier: CELPIP vs PTE?

As high-stakes tests, neither can be labelled as easy or difficult. The level of difficulty depends on the individual’s strengths and preferences.

The structure and format of both tests are different. It means that one test may feel more comfortable to some individuals than the other. Moreover, it depends on the following factors:

• Personal preferences.
• Format your chosen university accepts.
• Visas you are applying for. 

In addition to this, CELPIP features a fixed number of questions, while PTE features a varying number of questions that can increase testing time.

Final Thoughts

Both CELPIP and PTE are great options for proving your English skills for Australian immigration. The best choice depends on:

• Your comfort level with technology, 
• Your test-taking preferences, 
• and your budget. 

By now you have learned the basic differences between these two and examined which is best for you. Now, what’s next? Take your time to research, practice, and choose the test that aligns with your strengths.