The CELPIP Speaking test remains a vital component of the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program in 2025, assessing candidates' ability to communicate effectively in real-life scenarios. 

Designed for immigration, citizenship, and professional purposes, the test lasts about 20 minutes and consists of eight tasks, each building on practical language skills. 

These include a practice task, followed by tasks focused on giving advice, sharing personal experiences, describing scenes, making predictions, comparing options, handling difficult situations, expressing opinions, and describing unusual situations. 

With no significant changes announced for 2025, the emphasis remains on fluency, coherence, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

Preparing for the CELPIP Speaking test requires consistent practice on common topics that reflect everyday life, work, and social interactions. This article compiles 30 of the most frequently encountered topics based on recent trends, drawn from test-taker reports and preparation materials. 

Each topic includes a brief explanation, preparation tips, and a high-scoring sample answer (aiming for level 9-12). These samples demonstrate clear structure, varied vocabulary, and natural flow to help you model your responses. 

Remember, responses are timed (60-90 seconds per task), so focus on organizing thoughts quickly. For additional practice materials and mock tests, celpipstore offers valuable resources to enhance your preparation.

We've categorized the topics by task type for clarity, with approximately 3-4 topics per primary task to reach our list of 30. Practice speaking aloud, recording yourself, and timing your responses to build confidence and improve your performance.

Task 1: Giving Advice (90 seconds)

This task involves advising someone on a problem or decision. Common topics revolve around health, career, travel, and daily challenges. Tips: Start with empathy, provide 2-3 practical suggestions, and end with encouragement. Use phrases like "I recommend" or "It might help to."

1. Advising a friend on managing work stress. A frequent topic in 2025, as workplace pressure is standard. Sample Answer: "If my friend is feeling overwhelmed at work, I would first suggest they prioritize their tasks by making a daily to-do list to avoid feeling scattered. Additionally, taking short breaks throughout the day, such as a 10-minute walk or practicing deep breathing exercises, can significantly help reduce stress levels. Ultimately, discussing workload distribution with a supervisor may lead to improved support. Overall, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is key to long-term well-being."

2. Advising a family member on choosing a university. Education decisions are evergreen. Sample Answer: "For a family member deciding on a university, I advise researching programs that align with their career goals, such as checking course curricula and faculty expertise. Visiting campuses or attending virtual tours can give a feel for the environment. Also, considering tuition costs and scholarships is crucial to avoid financial strain. In the end, choosing a place where they feel motivated will lead to greater success."

3. Advising someone on starting a healthy diet. Health trends make this popular. Sample Answer: "To someone wanting to start a healthy diet, I'd recommend beginning small by incorporating more fruits and vegetables into meals rather than overhauling everything at once. Tracking daily intake with an app can help stay accountable. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary snacks will boost energy. Remember, consistency is more important than perfection, so don't get discouraged by occasional slip-ups."

4. Advising a colleague on preparing for a job interview. Career advice is recurrent. Sample Answer: "For a colleague nervous about a job interview, I suggest practicing common questions like 'Tell me about yourself' in front of a mirror to build confidence. Thoroughly researching the company demonstrates genuine interest. Dressing professionally and arriving early can make a strong first impression. Lastly, following up with a thank-you email reinforces enthusiasm for the role."

Task 2: Talking about a Personal Experience (60 seconds)

Here, you share a story from your life. Topics often include memorable events, challenges, or achievements. Tips: Use past tense, include details (who, what, where, why), and reflect on lessons learned. Structure with beginning, middle, and end.

5. A time you travelled to a new place. Travel experiences are staples. Sample Answer: "Last year, I travelled to Vancouver for the first time with my family. We explored Stanley Park, rented bikes, and enjoyed the scenic views. The highlight was spotting seals in the harbour, which was unexpected and thrilling. This trip taught me the value of stepping out of my comfort zone to create lasting memories."

6. An occasion when you helped someone. Helping stories show empathy. Sample Answer: "Once, I helped an elderly neighbour carry groceries up the stairs during a heavy rainstorm. She was struggling with her bags, so I offered to assist her and even chatted with her afterward. It made her day, and I felt a sense of community. Experiences like this remind me how small acts of kindness can strengthen bonds."

7. A difficult decision you made. Decision-making is common. Sample Answer: "A few years ago, I had to decide whether to change careers from marketing to teaching. It was tough because I enjoyed my job but wanted more fulfillment. After weighing pros and cons, I pursued education courses. Now, I'm happier, and it showed me that calculated risks can lead to rewarding paths."

8. A favourite childhood memory. Nostalgic topics engage easily. Sample Answer: "My favourite childhood memory is summer picnics with my grandparents at the local lake. We'd pack sandwiches, play games, and swim until sunset. Those simple days taught me the joy of family time, and I still cherish the laughter and stories shared around the blanket."

Task 3: Describing a Scene (60 seconds)

You describe a picture in detail. Topics include everyday scenes like parks, offices, or streets. Tips: Use descriptive language, cover foreground/background, and speculate on emotions/actions. Imagine a visual.

9. Describing a busy city street. Urban scenes are frequent. Sample Answer: "In this scene, there's a bustling city street with tall buildings lining both sides. People rush along the sidewalks, some carrying briefcases, while others are on their phones. Cars and buses fill the road, honking occasionally, while street vendors sell hot dogs. In the background, a park offers a green contrast, suggesting a mix of chaos and calm in urban life."

10. Describing a family gathering. Social events are common. Sample Answer: "The picture shows a warm family gathering in a living room decorated with balloons. Adults are chatting on sofas, kids are playing with toys on the floor, and a table is laden with food, including cake and fruit. Everyone looks happy, with smiles and hugs, capturing the essence of togetherness during celebrations."

11. Describing a beach scene. Nature topics recur. Sample Answer: "This beach scene features golden sand stretching to the blue ocean, with waves gently crashing. Umbrellas dot the shore, people sunbathing or building sandcastles. In the distance, palm trees sway, and seagulls fly overhead. The overall atmosphere is relaxing, perfect for a summer escape."

12. Describing an office workspace. Professional settings appear often. Sample Answer: "The image depicts a modern office with desks arranged in rows, computers glowing on each. Employees are typing or discussing documents, with whiteboards full of notes in the background. Plants add a touch of green, creating a productive yet comfortable environment for collaboration."

Task 4: Making Predictions (60 seconds)

Based on the previous scene, predict what happens next. Tips: Use future tense, logical reasoning, and connect to the description.

13. Predicting what happens next in a city street scene. Follows urban descriptions. Sample Answer: "Next, I think the traffic light will turn green, allowing cars to move forward while pedestrians wait. A vendor might sell a snack to a passerby, and someone could enter a nearby shop. Overall, the street will continue its rhythmic flow as the day progresses."

14. Predicting outcomes at a family gathering. Social predictions. Sample Answer: "In the next moment, the family might cut the cake, singing happy birthday if it's a celebration. Children could open gifts, resulting in excited reactions. Conversations will deepen, strengthening family ties as the evening unfolds."

15. Predicting events on a beach. Leisure scenarios. Sample Answer: "Soon, a group might start a volleyball game on the sand, drawing others to join. As the sun sets, people will pack up, perhaps taking photos of the horizon. The beach will quiet down, transitioning to a peaceful night."

16. Predicting in an office setting. Work-related. Sample Answer: "Next, a meeting could start, with employees gathering around the whiteboard. Someone might present ideas, leading to discussions and decisions. By the end of the day, desks will clear as people head home."

Task 5: Comparing and Persuading (90 seconds)

Compare two options and make a choice. Topics include products, activities, or plans. Tips: Highlight pros/cons, use comparative language, and persuade politely.

17. Choosing between online and in-person shopping. Consumer decisions are trending. Sample Answer: "Comparing online and in-person shopping, online offers convenience and variety, but in-person allows trying items. I'd persuade my friend to shop in person for clothes to ensure a good fit and quality, thereby avoiding return hassles. It's also more enjoyable socially."

18. Selecting a vacation: beach vs. mountain. Travel choices. Sample Answer: "A beach vacation provides relaxation with sun and sea, while mountains offer adventure like hiking. If my companion seeks rest, I'd recommend the beach for its calming waves and easy activities over the strenuous mountain trails."

19. Picking a pet: dog vs. cat. Everyday life topics. Sample Answer: "Dogs require more attention but provide companionship, whereas cats are independent. For a busy person, I'd suggest a cat as it's low-maintenance, fitting their lifestyle better without daily walks."

20. Deciding on a restaurant: fast food vs. fine dining. Food preferences. Sample Answer: "Fast food is quick and affordable, but fine dining offers quality and ambiance. For a special occasion, I'd persuade fine dining to create memorable experiences with exquisite dishes over hurried meals."

Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation (90 seconds)

Respond to a complaint or problem. Tips: Acknowledge the issue, propose solutions, and offer alternatives.

21. Handling a noisy neighbour complaint. Community issues. Sample Answer: "If my neighbour complains about noise, I'd apologize and explain it was a one-time party. To resolve, I'd promise quieter hours and suggest discussing schedules. If needed, we could involve management for fair mediation."

22. Dealing with a delayed flight. Travel problems. Sample Answer: "For a delayed flight, I'd first check updates at the gate. Then, request meal vouchers from the airline. To make the best of it, I'd use the time to relax or work, ensuring I arrive refreshed."

23. Addressing a wrong order at a restaurant. Service scenarios. Sample Answer: "If I receive the wrong dish, I'd politely inform the waiter without blame. I'd ask for the correct item promptly. If it's busy, I'd accept a discount as compensation to maintain a positive dining experience."

Task 7: Expressing Opinions (90 seconds)

State and support an opinion on a statement. Tips: Clearly agree or disagree, providing reasons and examples.

24. Opinion on remote work vs. office work. Work trends in 2025. Sample Answer: "I agree that remote work is better as it saves commuting time and boosts productivity in a comfortable setting. For instance, many companies report higher employee satisfaction. However, it requires self-discipline to avoid distractions."

25. View on social media's impact on society. Modern issues. Sample Answer: "Social media has a mixed impact; it connects people globally, but can spread misinformation. I believe its benefits outweigh drawbacks if used mindfully, like for education and networking."

26. Opinion on mandatory recycling. Environmental topics. Sample Answer: "I support mandatory recycling as it reduces waste and conserves resources. Cities with such policies tend to have cleaner environments. Education alongside enforcement would make it more effective."

Task 8: Describing an Unusual Situation (90 seconds)

Describe a hypothetical or odd scenario. Tips: Be creative, use vivid details, and explain implications.

27. Describing life without the internet. Tech-dependent world. Sample Answer: "In a world without the internet, people would rely on books and face-to-face talks for information. Daily tasks like banking would revert to in-person, slowing life but perhaps fostering deeper connections."

28. An animal that can talk. Imaginative prompts. Sample Answer: "If my dog could talk, he'd complain about short walks and beg for treats constantly. Conversations would reveal his thoughts on squirrels, making pet ownership hilariously insightful."

29. Finding a time machine. Sci-fi elements. Sample Answer: "Discovering a time machine, I'd travel to the past to witness historical events like the moon landing. I'd be cautious not to alter timelines, using it for learning rather than change."

30. A city where cars fly. Futuristic scenarios. Sample Answer: "In a city with flying cars, traffic would soar above buildings, reducing ground congestion. Commuting would be faster, but safety regulations would be strict to prevent accidents in the skies."

In conclusion, mastering these 30 common CELPIP Speaking topics for 2025 will significantly boost your performance. Regular practice, focusing on clarity and vocabulary, is essential. Utilize resources like celpipstore to access more tailored exercises. With dedication, achieving a high score is within reach.