Results
Reports
Two reports will be generated and sent out
15 business days from the date the examinee concluded taking both parts of CELBAN (the CELBAN Speaking Test and the CELBAN Computer Based Test):
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Unofficial Score Report (for examinees)
This report will be sent to the examinee by email. The Unofficial Score Report includes test scores and a description of strengths and weaknesses for speaking and writing.
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Official Test Results (for institutions)
These results will be sent electronically to a licensing body or institution only. Examinees will indicate where to have their Official Test Result sent when registering for CELBAN. This report contains only the test results. It does not include a description of strengths and weaknesses.
Additional Reports
To have copies of the Official Test Results sent to an additional licensing body or institution, complete an
Additional Test Results Request Form. There is a fee for each additional result requested.
Rescore Requests
CELBAN results are highly reliable. Multiple choice questions in the Listening and Reading Tests are rated automatically and results are calculated using a programmed and validated algorithm. Given this marking process, rescoring of these components is not conducted.
The CELBAN Speaking and Writing Tests are marked by trained examiners using validated rubrics. The CELBAN Speaking Test is conducted by one examiner and recorded for a second examiner to independently score. Please note that if examinees do not agree to the interview being recorded, they will not be eligible to complete CELBAN. The CELBAN Writing Test is marked by one examiner. For quality assurance purposes, second ratings of both the Speaking and Writing Tests are regularly performed.
Examinees may request a rescore for their Speaking and Writing tests. To request a rescore, the examinee will need to submit the Test Rescore Request Form within 20 business days of receiving their Unofficial Score Report. The following rescore fees apply:
- Speaking Test Rescore Request: CAN$ 100
- Writing Test Rescore Request: CAN$ 100
If test results change as a result of the rescore, the rescore fee will be refunded. However, if the test scores remain the same, The CELBAN Centre will retain the fees for its service. A rescore letter will be issued describing the results of this process. Should new scores come as a result of the rescore process, an updated Official Score Report and an Unofficial Score Report will be issued at no cost.
Understanding Test Scores
Speaking and Writing
In the CELBAN Speaking and Writing Tests, a trained examiner independently assigns a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level based on a set of standardized criteria, and a conversion process is applied to arrive at a final overall CLB.
Listening and Reading
In CELBAN Listening and Reading Tests, test items answered correctly are added up to determine a raw score. A conversion process is then applied to arrive at a final overall CLB.
Regulatory Requirements
Effective November 14, 2022, the Canadian Nurse Regulators Collaborative (CNRC) updated the minimum required scores for CELBAN as follows:
- Listening: CLB 9 (previously CLB 10)
- Reading: CLB 8 (no change)
- Writing: CLB 7 (no change)
- Speaking: CLB 8 (no change)
These are the language proficiency requirements approved by all nursing regulatory authorities across Canada.
CELBAN and the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB)
CELBAN test results are related to the CLB scale, which is described in the document Canadian Language Benchmarks: English as a Second Language for Adults.
There are 12 CLB levels, and CELBAN test results reflect levels 6 to 10 for Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and 6 to 9 for Writing.