Test Preparation

CELBAN is an occupation-specific language test that assesses proficiency within real-world health care scenarios. It evaluates proficiency in listening, writing, reading and speaking and is recognized as proof of language proficiency by all Canadian nursing regulators.

Preparing for CELBAN means reflecting on and practising how nurses communicate in Canada. Unlike other high stakes language proficiency exams, which may move you away from your occupation-specific subject area, CELBAN grounds you in healthcare – your area of expertise.

When preparing for CELBAN, remember to produce independent, original communication during your test. The use of memorized or reproduced content from an existing source, as part of your response to a written or spoken task on a test, is considered plagiarism. Engaging in plagiarism not only compromises the integrity and security of the examination process, but also the validity of your scores.  For further information, please review our policies and procedures.

There is no need to take a language test preparation detour because when you prepare for CELBAN, it is advisable to use and practice with authentic nursing sources and material.

Develop a Study Plan

There are steps and methods to prepare yourself for CELBAN. We encourage IENs to:

• Understand CELBAN and how it is structured – Read the Test-Taking Strategies.
• Conduct a thorough and honest self-reflection and self-assessment – Take the CELBAN Readiness Self-Assessment
• Learn how to use feedback for action
• Practice and reflect on previous language performances
• Use tip sheets, and self-guided study books if desired for further development – Download the CELBAN Tip Sheets
• Create small peer-to-peer study groups to support learning and motivation