How to Succeed in a Language Test (for Canadian Immigration)

If you’re planning to apply for a work permit (like the PGWP) or permanent residence in Canada, you’ll need to take an approved language test in at least one of Canada’s two official languages. As a lifelong learner of English and an absolute beginner in French, I understand how daunting a language test can be for anyone whose first language isn’t English or French. I’d love to share a few tips from my own experience taking an official language test.

1. Get Familiar with the Test Format

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accepts three English language tests: CELPIP-General, IELTS General Training, and Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core, and two French tests: TEF Canada and TCF Canada.

Once you’ve chosen your test, visit the official website and take time to understand its format. All tests assess four language abilities: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking—each with specific time limits. Each section usually includes two or more parts, and it's essential to know what types of questions you’ll face. This helps you build an effective study strategy and manage your time well on test day.

2. Use Official Prep Tools

Every test provider offers free preparation materials and sample tests online. Even if you’ve been using the language for years, I strongly recommend taking at least one full practice test in all four abilities. This will give you a rough idea of your current score level.

Start with all the free resources before spending money on extras like private tutoring or prep courses. In many cases, the free tools are more than enough to get you started.

3. Identify Your Weaknesses and Focus Your Practice

You might already have an idea which ability is your weakest—many language learners struggle most with writing, especially if they haven’t had much experience writing essays in school or at work.

Once you know your weaker areas (either from intuition or a practice test), spend more time and effort improving those skills. Don’t hesitate to invest in paid resources like tutors or writing feedback, but focus only where it’s needed. In my case, speaking was my biggest challenge. I hired a tutor for one-on-one lessons until I felt confident about reaching my target score.

4. Even Native Speakers Need to Prepare

This might surprise you, but even native speakers should prepare before taking a language test. No matter how well you speak, lack of preparation can lead to a poor score. I learned this the hard way.

Because I’d been using English since I was young, I assumed I didn’t need to prepare much. I was wrong—and I didn’t reach the required score in one section on my first attempt. I wasn’t proud of having to retake the test 😅.

Final Tip: Prepare, Prepare, Prepare

The more you prepare, the more confident you’ll feel. And when you're confident, your chances of success are much higher. Take the time to study smart, practice often, and approach the test like a challenge you’re ready to conquer.

Good luck—you’ve got this!