CELPIP Reading Scores

If you are taking the CELPIP test for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR), you know how important the reading score is. Most people need a CLB 9.

But when students look at the official CELPIP score chart, they get confused. They see the same numbers in different levels.

For example, look at the score 31. It is listed in Level 8, and it is also listed in Level 9.

So, if you get 31 correct answers, will you get a Level 8 or a Level 9?

The answer depends on one thing: Is your exam easy or difficult?

Here is a simple explanation of how the scoring works and how many correct answers you really need.

CELPIP Reading Scores and Level

First, let’s look at the numbers. There are usually 38 scored questions in the Reading section.

· For Level 10–12: You need 33 to 38 correct answers.

· For Level 9: You need 31 to 33 correct answers.

· For Level 8: You need 28 to 31 correct answers.

Do you see the problem? The number 31 is in the Level 8 group and the Level 9 group.

Why is there an overlap?

CELPIP uses a system called “Score Equating.” This makes sure the test is fair for everyone.

Sometimes, the reading passages in an exam are easy. Sometimes, they are very difficult. The computer adjusts your score based on this difficulty.

Here is how it works for the score of 31:

1. If the paper is Easy: The computer expects you to answer more questions correctly because they are simple. So, if you get 31/38 on an easy test, you might only get Level 8.

2. If the paper is Difficult: The computer knows the test is hard. So, if you get the same 31/38 on a hard test, the computer will give you Level 9.

This implies that getting 31 is a risk. You don’t know if your exam will be easy or hard.

How to be Safe: The Real Target Scores

You should not aim for the minimum number. You need a “safe score” so that even if the paper is easy, you still get your desired level.

Here is the breakdown for Level 8, 9, and 10.

1. Aiming for Level 8

The chart says the range is 28–31.

• Risky Score: 28 is very dangerous. If you get 28, you are on the edge.

• Safe Score: You should aim for 29 or 30. If you get 29 or 30 correct, you will almost certainly get a Level 8.

2. Aiming for Level 9 (The PR Goal)

The chart says the range is 31–33.

• Risky Score: 31 is not safe. As I explained, if the paper is easy, a 31 will drop down to Level 8. This is a nightmare for many students.

• Safe Score: You need to aim for 32. If you get 32 correct answers, you will get a Level 9 even if the paper is easy.

3. Aiming for Level 10 or higher

The chart says the range starts at 33.

• Risky Score: 33. On a very easy paper, 33 might drop to a Level 9.

• Safe Score: You should aim for 34 or more. This guarantees you a Level 10.

Do not trust the overlap numbers.

If you want a Level 9, do not stop at 31 in your practice tests. You must push yourself to get 32 or 33 consistently. This is the only way to be 100% sure that you will get your dream score, whether the exam is easy or difficult.

Practice With Us

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