Hello all,
After 3 unsuccessful (because I couldn't get CLB 9 in each) attempts with CELPIP, I decided to take IELTS and got what I was aiming for in one shot.
My IELTS score: L-8.5 (CLB 10-12), R-7.5 (CLB 9), W-7 (CLB 9), S-8 (CLB 10-12).
My CRS score on EE profile pumped up from 383 to 447, a huge boost of 64.
Here's my take on 'IELTS vs CELPIP':
Don't take CELPIP if writing is the only component for which you aren't able to improve with IELTS, for the following reasons:
1. CELPIP seems a bit easier test, especially because we're writing on a computer, but their marking for writing is illogically tough. No matter how much I improved, I always ended up having 8 in writing.
2. CELPIP's speaking test's marking is insanely strict for foreign speakers. I got 8.5 (out of 9) and 8 (out of 9) in speaking with my first and second attempt with IELTS respectively, but couldn't get more than 8 (out of 12) with two of my CELPIP attempts.
Conclusion: CELPIP seems easier but their marking is very strict for writing and speaking, whereas IELTS, although seems a bit tougher, its marking is way more logical and accurate. Undoubtedly, I'd recommend IELTS over CELPIP now.
Good luck,