Collège Nordique Provides an Update on CELPIP and TEF to the GNWT

On Friday, February 6, Collège Nordique welcomed Erin Evans, representative of the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT), for a meeting focused on reviewing the CELPIP and TEF services and discussing future outlook.

The meeting provided an opportunity to present the results achieved in recent years, review project-related expenditures, and offer an overview of the elements that will be included in the upcoming funding application.

In attendance were Patrick Arsenault, Executive Director of Collège Nordique, Érika Cairo-Luce, Director of Operations, and Leanne Robinson, French instructor for the CLIC program and CELPIP and TEF Supervisor.

Growing Demand

Initially, the service aimed to offer CELPIP on a monthly basis. However, demand quickly exceeded initial projections.

In 2023–2024, Collège Nordique held 8 sessions, serving 119 test takers. For 2025–2026, 23 sessions have already been delivered to date, representing 333 test takers, with projections reaching up to 29 sessions and approximately 400 test takers depending on demand. This growth confirms the relevance of the service and its importance for residents of the territory.

TEF Canada shows a similar trajectory. In 2023–2024, 3 sessions served 8 test takers. For 2025–2026, 7 sessions have already been delivered (22 test takers), with a projection of 8 sessions and approximately 27 test takers.

These results highlight Collège Nordique’s central role in providing access to language certifications in the North.

A Key Service for Immigration Pathways

CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) is recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for several processes related to permanent residency and citizenship.

TEF Canada (Test d’évaluation de français), administered by the Paris Île-de-France Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Paris Île-de-France), is also recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for economic immigration and citizenship applications.

Before these services were available in Yellowknife, candidates often had to travel outside the territory, including to Alberta, to complete their exams. Local access now represents a significant advantage, reducing costs, delays, and logistical barriers.

“I am particularly proud of the work accomplished by our team to offer CELPIP and TEF here in Yellowknife. Providing these services in the Northwest Territories makes a concrete difference for individuals seeking to establish themselves long-term in the North,” says Patrick Arsenault, Executive Director of Collège Nordique.

Rigorous and Collaborative Management

The meeting also provided an opportunity to present the financial framework of the project and the mechanisms put in place to ensure its sustainability.

“We are very satisfied with what we have been able to deliver so far. Despite a challenging financial context across the post-secondary sector, we have prioritized rigorous management to maintain these essential services. The results clearly demonstrate strong demand and meaningful impact for the territory,” explains Érika Cairo-Luce, Director of Operations.

Under the supervision of Léanne Robinson, the CELPIP and TEF services operate through a structured system that complies with the requirements of Paragon Testing Enterprises for CELPIP and the CCI Paris Île-de-France for TEF. Logistics include secure room management, adherence to technical protocols, coordination with internal services, and candidate support.

“Demand has been much stronger than initially anticipated. We adjusted our planning and opened additional sessions to respond to needs while maintaining high standards. Collaboration with Student Services and Quality Assurance has been key to ensuring smooth and compliant execution,” notes Leanne Robinson, CELPIP and TEF Supervisor.

Looking Ahead

The February 6 meeting reflects a commitment to continuity and ongoing improvement. It provided an opportunity to present achieved results and share the orientations being considered to continue developing these services in alignment with territorial needs.

Collège Nordique would like to thank the Government of the Northwest Territories for its ongoing support and collaboration. This partnership strengthens access to language certifications and supports integration pathways across the North.

Published on February 16th 2026