CELPIP Writing: tasks, scoring and how to improve
The CELPIP Writing test has two tasks completed in about 53–60 minutes: an email and a response to a survey. You type both answers (roughly 150–200 words each) and are scored on official criteria that map straight to your CLB level. Here is exactly what each task asks, how raters score you, and the strategies that lift your band.
The two CELPIP Writing tasks
Write a 150–200 word email for a given situation (a request, complaint, apology or arrangement) in about 27 minutes. Tone and purpose matter as much as grammar.
Read a short scenario and survey, choose an option, and justify it in 150–200 words in about 26 minutes. You are graded on how clearly you argue, not which option you pick.
How CELPIP Writing is scored
Each task is rated on four criteria — Content & Coherence, Vocabulary, Readability, and Task Fulfilment — then combined into a CELPIP level from 3 to 12 (equal to your CLB). Raters reward clear organisation, a tone that fits the situation, and precise word choice. A grammatically perfect answer that ignores the prompt or uses the wrong tone will still score low, so always answer exactly what is asked.
Strategies that raise your score
Spend the first two minutes planning: note your purpose, your main points, and your closing. Open by stating why you are writing, use one paragraph per idea, and connect ideas with linking words so your writing flows. Hit the word count — too short looks underdeveloped, too long invites errors. Save two minutes at the end to fix spelling, verb tenses and articles.
Common mistakes to avoid
The biggest score-killers are getting the tone wrong (too casual in a formal email, or stiff in a friendly one), drifting off the prompt, and weak paragraphing that buries your point. Repetitive vocabulary and run-on sentences also pull down Vocabulary and Readability. Practising against model answers at CLB 7, 9 and 11 trains your eye to see the difference.
Free CELPIP Writing lessons
Go deeper with our free, in-depth writing lessons — each with strategies and CLB-level sample answers:
Master the CELPIP email: 27 minutes, 150–200 words, and the 3 bullet points you must cover. Includes CLB 7, 9 and 11 sample answers.
The opinion task: 26 minutes, 150–200 words. Pick ONE option and defend it with reasons and examples. Includes CLB 7, 9 and 11 sample answers.
Learn the four CELPIP Writing scoring criteria and the most common errors that lower scores, so you can write smarter emails and survey responses.
Learn how to use cohesive devices accurately in CELPIP Writing Task 1 and Task 2 so your ideas connect smoothly and your coherence score rises.
Learn how to match your tone to the reader in CELPIP Writing Task 1 and Task 2, so your email and survey response sound natural, appropriate, and score higher.
Know your target score
CELPIP Writing is reported as a level from 3 to 12, which equals your CLB. See how scores convert on the CELPIP score chart, or set a goal with the CLB calculator. New to the test? Start with the full CELPIP test format.
Other CELPIP skills
Frequently asked questions
How many tasks are in CELPIP Writing?
Two: Task 1 is an email and Task 2 is a response to survey questions. You have about 53–60 minutes for both and write roughly 150–200 words each.
How is CELPIP Writing scored?
On four criteria — Content & Coherence, Vocabulary, Readability and Task Fulfilment — which combine into a CELPIP/CLB level from 3 to 12.
What is a good CELPIP Writing score?
CLB 9 (CELPIP 9) is a strong score that maximises Express Entry points; CLB 7 is the usual minimum for skilled-worker eligibility.
How long should my CELPIP email be?
Aim for 150–200 words. Answers that are far shorter look underdeveloped, while very long answers tend to introduce more errors.
Practise CELPIP Writing for free
Exam-style writing questions with instant feedback and a personalised path to your target CLB.
Start practising free →