Moving is not an easy task, especially when you are doing so along with a bag and baggage to another country. It is extremely challenging while being exciting and exhilarating at the same time.
Canada is the dream destination of many people all over the world. It is a nation that welcomes immigrants with open arms and provides them with warm hospitality and a better quality of life.
If you are thinking about moving to Canada, there are many aspects you have to consider in detail. You will have to do a lot of homework in minute detail so that you can avoid any roadblocks in your journey. At the same time, there are several requirements that you have to fulfill before you can move here and call it your new home.
Language Proficiency
In all probability, your native language might be different from the languages spoken in Canada, which are English and French. One of the biggest requirements for immigration to Canada is being able to speak one of these languages reasonably well so that you are able to assimilate better into Canadian society.
To ensure language ability, the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) has set a few designated language skill levels to be proven in proficiency exams.
For the English language, the IRCC accepts two exams:
- IELTS
- CELPIP
Both of these include skills like reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
For French language, the IRCC accepts the TEF (Test d’Evaluation de Francais) Test.
Details
Unlike school exams, neither CELPIP nor IELTS is a pass-or-fail test. In these, your English skills are judged on a range of abilities, and you are given a score on the basis of your proficiency.
Do note that the IRCC accepts only these two exams and no others. Also, these tests are conducted at IRCC-designated institutions only.
CELPIP
In all probability, if you go for the CELPIP test, you will sit the CELPIP-General Test for permanent residency.
For citizenship, you have to sit the CELPIP-General LS Test.
Your CELPIP test score matters immensely as that is added to your overall immigration score, and if you score high, your chances of immigration are enhanced enormously.
Here are a few tips that will help you to improve your CELPIP score.
- Using a computer: CELPIP tests are computer-based. So, get used to reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English on a computer. Also, as the test is usually held in a room filled with other applicants, you should practice in crowd-dense places with ample noise to improve your listening and speaking skills. Also, remember that these tests are timed, so try and finish your practice tests well in time.
- Practice a lot: If you are not that comfortable with the English language, you must make it a point to keep improving your skills on a daily basis with English-based resources. Ask your family and friends to converse only in English and plan such conversations in crowded places so that you get used to filtering background noises and concentrating only on language mastery. Read English newspapers and listen to the news in English. Take a few sample tests as well, especially if you are preparing for the test on your own. This will help you to identify your problem areas and work on them accordingly.
- Take a CELPIP course: Many educational institutions offer courses that help in preparation for the CELPIP test. Undergoing a course will equip you to do better in the exam as these are structured on the betterment of various language proficiency skills. Search for suitable options and choose the best-suited prep course and exam location.
Best of luck!
