CELPIP Listening practice test with answers
A full free CELPIP Listening test: 6 parts and 38questions with audio, and the answer to every question with an explanation of why it's right. For a real score, take it timed in the exam simulator first, then study it here.
Updated · CelpipUni Academic Team
On this page3 sections
How to use this test
- Play each part once only, the way the real test does, and answer before you open anything.
- Check your answers with the key at the bottom and count your raw score out of 38.
- Use the chart below to estimate your level, then open the explanation for every question you missed.
Part 1: Listening to Problem Solving
Choosing a Night Course · 8 questions
Choose the best option for each question based on the conversation.
Question 1: What is the primary goal of the courses Mark is considering?
- A. To change his career path entirely
- B. To improve his professional skills
- C. To meet new people in his industry
- D. To finish his degree requirements
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (To improve his professional skills)
Mark states that the courses would help with his performance review and professional development.
Question 2: Which course is longer in duration?
- A. Advanced Excel
- B. Introduction to Project Management
- C. Both are the same length
- D. Neither course is offered
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (Introduction to Project Management)
Mark mentions that the project management course is a twelve-week commitment, while Excel is only four weeks.
Question 3: Why is Mark hesitant about the project management course?
- A. The cost is too high
- B. He does not like the instructor
- C. He has a busy work schedule
- D. He prefers online learning
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (He has a busy work schedule)
Mark expresses concern about the time commitment due to upcoming quarterly reports at work.
Listen to the next part of the conversation and answer the questions.
Question 4: What does Sarah suggest is a long-term benefit of the project management course?
- A. A higher salary immediately
- B. Learning to lead a team
- C. Getting a new job at a different company
- D. Improving his typing speed
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (Learning to lead a team)
Sarah mentions that Mark has wanted to lead his own team for a long time.
Question 5: What is the benefit of the blended learning format?
- A. It is cheaper than the in-person class
- B. It allows for more social interaction
- C. It reduces the frequency of in-person classes
- D. It provides extra credit for participants
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (It reduces the frequency of in-person classes)
The blended format requires meeting in person only once every two weeks, which makes it more manageable for Mark.
Question 6: When is the registration deadline?
- A. This coming Friday
- B. Next Monday
- C. Tomorrow morning
- D. At the end of the month
Show the answer and why
Answer: A (This coming Friday)
Sarah explicitly states that the registration deadline is this Friday.
Listen to the final part of the conversation and answer the questions.
Question 7: What course does Sarah plan to take?
- A. Advanced Excel
- B. Project Management
- C. Python programming
- D. Business Communication
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (Python programming)
Sarah mentions she is registering for the Python programming course.
Question 8: How will the two friends support each other?
- A. By studying together in the library
- B. By keeping each other accountable
- C. By sharing their textbooks
- D. By working on the same group project
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (By keeping each other accountable)
Sarah says they can keep each other accountable throughout the semester.
Part 2: Listening to a Daily Life Conversation
Organizing Office Supplies · 5 questions
Listen to the conversation about organizing office supplies.
Question 9: What is the main problem Mark and Lisa are discussing?
- A. The office is running out of essential supplies.
- B. The supply closet is disorganized and overflowing.
- C. They need to order new office furniture.
- D. Employees are taking too many supplies home.
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (The supply closet is disorganized and overflowing.)
Both Mark and Lisa express frustration about the state of the supply closet, describing it as a 'disaster' and 'out of control,' indicating disorganization and overflowing contents.
Question 10: What specific item did Lisa mention seeing in the closet that indicated its disarray?
- A. Expired coffee pods
- B. Old printer cartridges from 2018
- C. Broken staplers
- D. Unused boxes of pens
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (Old printer cartridges from 2018)
Lisa explicitly states, 'I saw old printer cartridges from 2018 in there!' as an example of the clutter.
Question 11: What does Mark mean by "No more archaeological digs for a pen!"?
- A. They plan to dig up old pens buried under clutter.
- B. They will be exploring ancient artifacts related to writing.
- C. It will no longer be difficult to find a pen due to disorganization.
- D. They are going to store pens in a secure, underground location.
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (It will no longer be difficult to find a pen due to disorganization.)
Mark uses the phrase metaphorically to imply that finding a simple item like a pen currently requires a lot of effort and searching, similar to an archaeological excavation. The reorganization will eliminate this problem.
Question 12: What day and time do Mark and Lisa agree to work on organizing the closet?
- A. Wednesday morning
- B. Thursday afternoon
- C. Friday evening
- D. Monday morning
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (Thursday afternoon)
Lisa asks, 'I'm free Thursday afternoon, if you are,' and Mark responds, 'Thursday afternoon works perfectly.'
Question 13: What is Lisa's specific task she plans to do *before* they start organizing?
- A. Purchase new shelves for the closet.
- B. Create a quick inventory list of what supplies they should have.
- C. Clean the shelves with cleaning supplies.
- D. Empty all the old boxes.
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (Create a quick inventory list of what supplies they should have.)
Lisa states, 'I'll make a quick inventory list beforehand of what we *should* have, so we know what's missing and what's clutter.'
Part 3: Listening for Information
Post-Surgery Recovery Discussion · 6 questions
Listen to the conversation between Hana and Freya about post-surgery recovery and answer the questions.
Question 14: What is the main purpose of Hana's visit to Freya?
- A. To report new symptoms and request more medication.
- B. To get clarification on post-surgery recovery instructions.
- C. To schedule a follow-up appointment for her incision.
- D. To discuss returning to her job next week.
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (To get clarification on post-surgery recovery instructions.)
Hana explicitly states, "My head's fuzzy; I need to reconfirm recovery instructions," indicating the primary reason for her visit.
Question 15: How long should Hana avoid baths or swimming after her procedure?
- A. 48 hours
- B. 5 to 7 days
- C. Two weeks
- D. Three weeks
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (Two weeks)
Freya clearly states, "Avoid baths or swimming for two weeks to prevent infection."
Question 16: When should Hana remove the initial dressing from her incision?
- A. Immediately after showering.
- B. After 48 hours.
- C. Only if she notices oozing or redness.
- D. Daily, before applying a new one.
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (After 48 hours.)
Freya instructs, "No, leave the initial dressing on for 48 hours. Remove it then."
Question 17: What can be inferred about Hana's current job?
- A. It requires heavy lifting.
- B. It is a desk-based office job.
- C. It involves periods of standing.
- D. It allows her to work from home.
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (It involves periods of standing.)
Hana asks, "Can I return to work next week? My job involves standing," directly implying her job requires standing.
Question 18: What is the recommended duration for Hana to avoid strenuous exercise?
- A. Five to seven days.
- B. Two weeks.
- C. Three weeks.
- D. Until her follow-up appointment.
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (Three weeks.)
Freya advises, "no heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for three weeks."
Question 19: Which of the following symptoms would require Hana to call the doctor immediately before her scheduled follow-up?
- A. Mild discomfort at the incision site.
- B. Fuzziness from anaesthesia.
- C. Severe pain, high fever, or increasing redness.
- D. Difficulty sleeping due to soreness.
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (Severe pain, high fever, or increasing redness.)
Freya explicitly states, "Call immediately if you experience severe pain, high fever, or increasing redness before then."
Part 4: Listening to a News Item
City Launches Advanced Recycling Program · 5 questions
Choose the best way to complete each statement from the drop-down menu.
The city of Metropolis has launched an Advanced Recycling Initiative, significantly expanding its recycling capabilities to include materials like plastic film and Styrofoam, which were (20) ______. This program utilizes (21) ______ to efficiently separate complex waste streams. Mayor Thompson highlighted that the initiative is a crucial step towards achieving the city's goal of (22) ______. Educational campaigns will ensure residents understand the (23) ______ and the positive impact of their involvement, aiming to divert waste from landfills and foster (24) ______.
Question 20 (blank)
- A. previously deemed unrecyclable
- B. always considered recyclable
- C. only recyclable in other cities
- D. too expensive to process before
Show the answer and why
Answer: A (previously deemed unrecyclable)
The news report states the program addresses 'a long-standing challenge of materials previously deemed unrecyclable.'
Question 21 (blank)
- A. manual sorting by new staff
- B. state-of-the-art sorting and processing technologies
- C. simplified collection methods
- D. volunteer efforts
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (state-of-the-art sorting and processing technologies)
The report mentions the city 'has invested heavily in state-of-the-art sorting and processing technologies, including a new automated facility.'
Question 22 (blank)
- A. zero waste by 2035
- B. reducing waste by half
- C. becoming the greenest city
- D. exporting all unrecyclable materials
Show the answer and why
Answer: A (zero waste by 2035)
Mayor Thompson stated the initiative is a 'crucial step towards achieving the city's long-term goal of zero waste by 2035.'
Question 23 (blank)
- A. new collection fees
- B. updated guidelines
- C. the mayor's speech
- D. the program's budget
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (updated guidelines)
Educational campaigns will ensure residents 'understand the updated guidelines and the positive impact of their participation.'
Question 24 (blank)
- A. political support
- B. a greater sense of community responsibility
- C. international recognition
- D. new job opportunities
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (a greater sense of community responsibility)
The program aims 'to foster a greater sense of community responsibility regarding environmental stewardship.'
Part 5: Listening to a Discussion
Southeast Asian Adventure Planning · 8 questions
Choose the best way to complete each statement from the drop-down menu.
Three friends, Habibah, Samir, and Kwame, are finalizing plans for their backpacking trip through Southeast Asia. Habibah suggests flying into Bangkok and then taking an overnight train to (25) ______ to begin their journey in Thailand. Samir expresses concern about the budget, wondering if they can include a few (26) ______ in Vietnam, particularly in Hoi An. Kwame agrees that while hostels are great for saving money, some private rooms would be beneficial after (27) ______. For inter-country travel, they decide on using (28) ______ to save on costs, despite the longer travel times. They also discuss the necessity of obtaining (29) ______ for Cambodia and Vietnam well in advance. Kwame emphasizes the importance of budgeting for specific activities like a cooking class in Thailand and a (30) ______ in Vietnam. Samir's primary concern regarding transportation within cities is (31) ______. Finally, Kwame volunteers to research (32) ______, deeming it non-negotiable for their adventure.
Question 25 (blank)
- A. Bangkok City
- B. Chiang Mai
- C. Phuket
- D. Hoi An
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (Chiang Mai)
Habibah mentions 'taking an overnight train to Chiang Mai makes the most sense for starting in Thailand.'
Question 26 (blank)
- A. luxury resorts
- B. private rooms
- C. treehouses
- D. all-inclusive packages
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (private rooms)
Samir asks, 'Are we thinking hostels all the way, or can we splurge on a few private rooms in Vietnam?'
Question 27 (blank)
- A. sightseeing tours
- B. shopping sprees
- C. long travel days
- D. spicy meals
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (long travel days)
Kwame states, 'a couple of private rooms would be a welcome break, especially after long travel days.'
Question 28 (blank)
- A. domestic flights
- B. fast trains
- C. buses
- D. rental cars
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (buses)
Kwame says, 'I'm leaning towards buses for cost-effectiveness,' and Habibah adds, 'Buses are definitely cheaper. We could do the bus from Thailand into Cambodia...'
Question 29 (blank)
- A. travel insurance
- B. visa fees
- C. currency exchange
- D. international driving permits
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (visa fees)
Habibah says, 'We need to factor in visa fees too; Cambodia and Vietnam require them for us, right?' and Samir confirms, 'Yes, visas are crucial.'
Question 30 (blank)
- A. beach party
- B. river rafting trip
- C. Ha Long Bay cruise
- D. historical museum visit
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (Ha Long Bay cruise)
Kwame mentions, 'For Vietnam, a Ha Long Bay cruise is a must-do.'
Question 31 (blank)
- A. getting lost
- B. overpaying for public transport
- C. getting scammed by taxi drivers
- D. navigating unfamiliar routes
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (getting scammed by taxi drivers)
Samir states, 'My biggest worry is getting scammed by taxi drivers, especially at airports.'
Question 32 (blank)
- A. backpacking gear
- B. local SIM cards
- C. travel insurance
- D. souvenirs
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (travel insurance)
Kwame says, 'And don't forget travel insurance! It's non-negotiable for a trip like this. I can look into some comprehensive policies this week.'
Part 6: Listening to Viewpoints
Universal Basic Income: A Panel Discussion · 6 questions
Choose the best way to complete each statement from the drop-down menu.
Dr. Zara discusses Universal Basic Income (UBI), defining it as an unconditional cash payment to all citizens. Proponents view UBI as a tool for poverty reduction and a safety net against increasing automation, believing a stable income could empower individuals and (33) ______ public health. Economically, UBI could streamline welfare and (34) ______ local economies. However, critics raise concerns about its colossal cost, fearing it could lead to higher inflation or strain national budgets. Another argument is that UBI might (35) ______ work, although pilot programs often contradict this. Sociologically, the debate involves its impact on societal values, with some fearing it might erode the traditional link between work and reward, potentially causing (36) ______. Politically, UBI is a (37) ______ topic, supported and opposed by various ideological groups. Ultimately, its practical implementation requires careful consideration of its economic viability, social implications, and (38) ______.
Question 33 (blank)
- A. improve
- B. undermine
- C. ignore
- D. stabilize
Show the answer and why
Answer: A (improve)
The speaker states that UBI could foster innovation and 'improving public health outcomes'.
Question 34 (blank)
- A. hinder
- B. stimulate
- C. isolate
- D. burden
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (stimulate)
The speaker suggests UBI could 'stimulate local economies as recipients would likely spend the money on essential goods and services'.
Question 35 (blank)
- A. promote
- B. incentivize
- C. disincentivize
- D. redefine
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (disincentivize)
A criticism mentioned is that UBI could 'disincentivize work, leading to a decline in labor force participation'.
Question 36 (blank)
- A. social cohesion
- B. social fragmentation
- C. economic growth
- D. civic responsibility
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (social fragmentation)
The speaker mentions fears that UBI might 'erode the traditional link between work and reward, potentially leading to social fragmentation or a dependency culture'.
Question 37 (blank)
- A. unifying
- B. niche
- C. polarizing
- D. universally accepted
Show the answer and why
Answer: C (polarizing)
The speaker explicitly states, 'Politically, UBI is a polarizing topic'.
Question 38 (blank)
- A. historical precedent
- B. political feasibility
- C. environmental impact
- D. technological advancements
Show the answer and why
Answer: B (political feasibility)
In the conclusion, the speaker emphasizes considering 'economic viability, social implications, and political feasibility'.
Answer key
Show all 38 answers
1. B · 2. B · 3. C · 4. B · 5. C · 6. A · 7. C · 8. B · 9. B · 10. B · 11. C · 12. B · 13. B · 14. B · 15. C · 16. B · 17. C · 18. C · 19. C · 20. A · 21. B · 22. A · 23. B · 24. B · 25. B · 26. B · 27. C · 28. C · 29. B · 30. C · 31. C · 32. C · 33. A · 34. B · 35. C · 36. B · 37. C · 38. B
What does your raw score mean?
| Correct answers | CELPIP level | CLB |
|---|---|---|
| 35–38 | 10–12 | CLB 10+ |
| 33–35 | 9 | CLB 9 |
| 30–33 | 8 | CLB 8 |
| 27–31 | 7 | CLB 7 |
| 22–28 | 6 | CLB 6 |
| 17–23 | 5 | CLB 5 |
| 11–18 | 4 | CLB 4 |
| 7–12 | 3 | CLB 3 |
| 0–7 | M | Below CLB 3 |
Ranges overlap because the raw score needed varies slightly between test forms. See the full Listening score chart.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a real CELPIP Listening test?
No. It's CelpipUni's free mock exam, written to the official CELPIP-General Listening format: six parts in the real order, multiple-choice and fill-in questions. Official practice tests are available from celpip.ca.
Should I take the test before reading the answers?
Yes. Take it timed first in the exam simulator, where audio plays once like on test day, then come back here to study each answer and explanation.
How many correct answers do I need for CELPIP 9 in Listening?
On Paragon's published raw-score chart, 33 to 35 correct out of 38 is roughly CELPIP 9, and 35 to 38 is roughly 10 to 12. Paragon calls the chart approximate because the raw score needed varies slightly between test forms.
Is it free?
Yes. This page, the audio and the answers are free with no account. The timed version in the exam simulator needs a free account.
Take it timed, like test day
Audio plays once and the timer runs, so your raw score means something.