How to Request CELPIP Test Accommodations: A Step-by-Step Guide

For individuals with medical conditions or disability, standardized testing is challenging. The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) offers accommodations to ensure a fair testing experience for everyone. This step-by-step guide walks you through the process of requesting accommodations for the CELPIP test, guaranteeing that you receive the support you need without any penalty. Keep reading to learn how to request accommodations for your CELPIP test.

Can I Request Accommodations for My CELPIP Test?

Yes. If you have a medical condition, disability, or special need which will impact your ability to take the CELPIP test, you are more than welcome to request accommodations with no penalty. However, in order to receive accommodations, your condition must be medically documented.

If you believe you have a medical condition that could affect your test, but haven’t been diagnosed, please consider contacting your family doctor or a walk-in clinic to get an assessment. 

Why Request CELPIP Test Accommodations

CELPIP test accommodations are incredibly important for those who may face significant learning challenges or have a disability. No matter your condition, you deserve to have a fair and accessible testing experience that gives you equal opportunity as everyone else. 

CELPIP test accommodations may include:

1. Taking the test in a private room
2. Additional time (25% to 100% more time than standard)
3. Scheduled breaks
4. Drinks and/or water in test room
5. A different rating scale for test-takers who have speech issues
6. Test form for the visually impaired
7. Use of assisted listening devices
8. Reader
9. Scribe

The accommodations you’ll receive for the test are determined on a case-by-case basis.

Accommodations are especially important for a CELPIP test as, in standard testing conditions, you are unable to get help from a proctor and must take the test alone. This makes the test significantly more difficult for people who have learning disabilities or other medical impairments. Please note that accommodations are not an advantage, they level out the playing field. 

Here are some common conditions that can require testing accommodations: 

1. Learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, ADHD, auditory processing disorder, can impact your ability to understand the test and answer questions effectively. 
2. Visual, hearing, or physical impairments.
3. Mental health conditions which can disrupt your ability to concentrate (ex. anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder).
4. Chronic health conditions that may require breaks or medical devices.

How to Request CELPIP Test Accommodations

Step 1: Gather Medical Documentation

In order to have your accommodation request accepted, your condition must be medically documented. Gather or ask your doctor for any medical documentation available to prove your diagnosis and demonstrate the limitations associated with your condition. CELPIP will ask you to submit any medical documentation alongside your accommodation request form. 

Failure to provide this documentation will result in your request being denied.  If you are not diagnosed, you must get a diagnosis prior to submitting your request if you wish to receive accommodations. 

Step 2: Fill Out the CELPIP Special Accommodations Request Form

Once you have the medical documentation you need, it’s time to fill out the CELPIP special accommodations request form, which you can find here. The form contains detailed instructions on how to submit your form and what documentation to provide. You will be asked to provide your personal information with a detailed account of your condition and why you are seeking accommodations. 

Step 3: Submit the Your Special Accommodations Form Before Booking Your Test

Once completed, you must submit your form and relevant medical documentation to specialaccommodations@paragontesting.ca. 

We strongly advise submitting this form before you book your test. Your special accommodations form will need time to be evaluated and processed, and this might not be done by the time your test day comes. 

You cannot ask your proctor for special accommodations on test day. Special accommodations can only be given if your request is accepted by CELPIP’s medical evaluators. 

Step 4: Booking Your CELPIP Test

Once your request is accepted, you can book your CELPIP test at a Pathways Education Centre located in Kitchener and Guelph: 

• Kitchener Location: 248 Stirling Avenue South, Unit 3, Kitchener, Ontario
• Guelph Location: 650 Woodlawn Road West, Unit 5, Guelph, Ontario

We are a certified CELPIP testing facility. Tell us about your accommodations and we’ll ensure you’re properly provided for on test day.

Book Your CELPIP Test!