The CELPIP Speaking Test (part of the CELPIP-General test) lasts about 15–20 minutes and consists of 8 tasks. You speak into a microphone on a computer, with your responses recorded and scored.
Task 1: Giving Advice — 30 seconds prep, 90 seconds speak.
Task 2: Talking about a Personal Experience — 30 seconds prep, 60 seconds speak.
Task 3: Describing a Scene — 30 seconds prep, 60 seconds speak (image shown).
Task 4: Making Predictions — 30 seconds prep, 60 seconds speak (often based on the same image).
Task 5: Comparing and Persuading — 60 seconds prep, 60 seconds speak.
Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation — 60 seconds prep, 60 seconds speak.
Task 7: Expressing Opinions — 30 seconds prep, 90 seconds speak.
Task 8: Describing an Unusual Situation — 30 seconds prep, 60 seconds speak.
Tips for success:
Speak naturally at a steady pace.
Structure your response (introduction, main points, conclusion).
Use varied vocabulary, clear pronunciation, and linking words.
Stay on topic and complete the full speaking time.
Practice recording yourself to build fluency and confidence.
The official CELPIP website offers two free full practice tests (including speaking) after a quick registration form. Highly recommended for the authentic computer-based experience.
Here is a full sample CELPIP Speaking test compiled from reliable practice materials. Practice each task by reading the prompt, preparing for the given time (silently or with a timer), then speaking aloud for the full duration. Sample high-scoring responses (transcripts) are provided for comparison—aim to match their structure, vocabulary, and clarity.
Prompt: Your co-worker, Sam, is retiring next month. Your office wants to hold a farewell party for her. The employee organizing the party is asking for ideas. Advise the employee about what to do for the party.
(30 sec prep | 90 sec speak)
Sample High-Scoring Response:
"Hi Craig, I’m glad that you asked me. I have a few ideas for Sam’s farewell party that you’re going to like.
First of all, how about getting her a gift? It can be a gift card, a piece of artwork or a book. It’s a tangible way to show Sam that she will be missed and a nice way to thank her for her service.
Secondly, if you can get our manager to agree, let’s invite him to give a speech about Sam’s contributions to the company. This will give Sam a chance to hear how much the company valued her work. I can’t imagine our boss would say no to that.
Lastly, even though this may take a bit of time, what do you think about preparing a slide show of Sam’s photos at work? We can use photos from the annual office parties and outings that we had throughout the years. It will be a fun way for everyone to reminisce about the good times.
I hope you like my ideas. Let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help."
Prompt: Talk about a time when you attended a sporting event. Maybe you can talk about a professional match, or a school/local game you watched. Where was it, who did you watch it with, and what did you think of the game?
(30 sec prep | 60 sec speak)
Sample High-Scoring Response:
"Last Saturday I attended a soccer match at BC Place in Vancouver. The stadium is in the center of downtown. The atmosphere was electric, and the weather was great. I went with my friends who I often play soccer with. We had a blast cheering for Vancouver Whitecaps. The game was intense. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time until Vancouver scored the game-winning goal at the 90th minute and the crowd went wild. It was a great experience. I love the energy and excitement of live sports and the sense of community that comes with it. We stayed after the game to celebrate the victory, and overall it was a fantastic evening. I'm already looking forward to the next game!"
(Alternative prompt example: Talk about a time you learned a new skill — e.g., cooking. Structure: Introduce the experience, describe challenges and success, reflect on what you learned.)
Prompt: Describe some things that are happening in the picture as well as you can. The person you are speaking to cannot see the picture. (Image: e.g., a busy public library or farmers’ market.)
(30 sec prep | 60 sec speak)
Sample High-Scoring Response (Library scene):
"This is a scene of a public library. The library seems quite busy at the moment. On the left side, a librarian is patiently helping a visitor who seems to have some questions about the reference book in front of him.
Meanwhile, behind him is a computer station where a man is doing some research.
In the foreground, the library staff is assisting a customer who would like to check out a book. She is asking for his library card so she can complete the checkout.
At the bottom right corner, an elderly man is sitting at a square table with a stack of LPs and music CDs he picked up. I’m surprised that the library actually has a collection of LPs and CDs."
(Alternative: Vibrant farmers’ market — describe foreground stalls with produce, vendors interacting with customers, background crowds, and lively atmosphere.)
Prompt: In this picture, what do you think will most probably happen next? (Same image as Task 3.)
(30 sec prep | 60 sec speak)
Sample High-Scoring Response (Library scene):
"First, the man who’s using the computer will walk to the printer to pick up copies of the resume he just typed. Given that it’s a public library, he most likely will take out his print card, swipe it into the card reader to pay for the print job.
Next, the librarian will hand the library card back to the customer checking out the library book. Just as he walks away, the librarian calls him because he forgets to take the two other books he left on the counter. He quickly returns and thanks her.
Lastly, the old man will carefully place the LP he’s holding back into the wrap. He just wants to make sure that the LP is in good condition prior to going home with it."
(Alternative: Farmers’ market — predict customers buying items, vendors restocking, market getting busier.)
Prompt example: You need to buy a new laptop. You have two options. Option A is lightweight and portable but more expensive. Option B is heavier, less expensive, but has a larger screen. Speak to a family member to help you decide.
(60 sec prep | 60 sec speak)
Sample High-Scoring Response:
"I’m having a tough time choosing a new laptop and could use your opinion.
Option A is very appealing because its lightweight design would be perfect for my commute. However, the higher price is a significant drawback.
On the other hand, Option B offers a larger screen, which would be great for watching movies, and it’s more budget-friendly. The main issue is its weight, which might be inconvenient to carry around daily.
Considering my primary need is for work on the go, I am leaning towards Option A despite the cost. I think the portability is the most crucial feature for me. What do you think?"
(Alternative official-style: Suggest a company team-building activity like a hike vs. volleyball.)
Prompt example: Your boss has asked you to work on a weekend to finish an urgent project, but you have important family plans. Speak to your boss.
(60 sec prep | 60 sec speak)
Sample High-Scoring Response:
"Good morning. Thank you for trusting me with this urgent project. I understand its importance. Unfortunately, I have a significant, long-standing family commitment this weekend that I am unable to change.
I am, however, fully committed to completing the project on time. I would like to propose a solution. I am willing to stay late every evening this week and also come in early to ensure all tasks are finished before the weekend.
I am confident that with these extra hours, we can meet the deadline without requiring weekend work."
(Alternative: Colleague wants overtime help but has family responsibilities — balance empathy and needs.)
Prompt: Do you think it is better for children to grow up in the city or in the countryside? Explain your reasoning.
(30 sec prep | 90 sec speak)
Sample High-Scoring Response:
"In my opinion, while both environments have their merits, I believe it is more beneficial for children to grow up in a city.
My reasoning is twofold. Firstly, cities offer unparalleled access to cultural and educational resources. Children can visit museums, attend diverse cultural festivals, and access specialized schools, which can profoundly enrich their development.
Secondly, growing up in a city exposes children to a wide variety of people from different backgrounds, fostering tolerance and a broader worldview from a young age.
While the countryside offers nature and a slower pace, I feel the diverse opportunities for learning and social development in an urban environment are more critical for preparing children for the modern world."
Prompt example: You bought a toy (e.g., a green frog with a watch) that broke soon after. Describe the situation to the store employee and ask for help (fix, replace, or refund).
(30 sec prep | 60 sec speak)
Sample High-Scoring Response (Level 10 style):
"Hi. My younger brother bought a toy in your store. It’s a green frog and I think it’s kind of inside of a green box. It has a watch and also has a switch in the back too to move the toy. Um anyways. I recently broke it. The leg is out, and also the clock went off the box. So, the toy is not working properly. I was wondering if it’s possible to fix it, or if not, is there anything else you can help me with, maybe getting a brand new one, or refund… that would help us a lot, because he really likes this toy, and I feel really bad for breaking it. What do you guys think, is it possible to maybe get a new one or fix it?"