IRCC has just announced the approval of the Pearson Test of English (PTE) for Canadian immigration applications.
Starting from the end of 2023, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) will join the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) and the International English Language Testing System General Training (IELTS General) as one of the designated language tests for economic class immigration candidates to demonstrate their English proficiency to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
PTE Essential is a new English language test created by Pearson to meet IRCC's language requirements for Canadian immigration applicants. PTE Essential is quite similar to the PTE Academic English test, with the main difference being that PTE Essential places a greater emphasis on professions, real-life situations, and non-academic areas, in line with IRCC's language proficiency requirements. The PTE Academic English test is recognized by governments in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand for all types of visa applications. Additionally, it is recognized by all universities in Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland, as well as over 99% of universities in the UK and more than 90% of universities in Canada. Test-takers can book their exams online as early as 24 hours in advance, and test centers are available worldwide year-round, with results typically received within 1.3 days.
The advantages of the PTE exam include a fully computer-based format, which eliminates any psychological influence from examiners and other test-takers. Test-takers can use templates, and both writing and speaking skills can be improved through repeated practice. Additionally, understanding and adhering to the test rules is easier, and correcting mistakes can lead to achieving the desired score in a shorter period. As a newcomer to the field, PTE is often considered more suitable for candidates in terms of efficiency, fairness, and speed of score improvement compared to traditional options like IELTS and CELPIP.
IRCC has different language standards for study permit applicants, which means international students typically need to take the "academic" version of language proficiency tests. With the approval of PTE Essential, there are now five language tests available for economic class immigration candidates. In addition to the three English language tests mentioned earlier, TEF Canada and TCF Canada are the two designated French language tests by IRCC. Statistics Canada research shows that proficiency in English and/or French is a strong predictor of economic integration in Canada.
Canada offers more than 100 different immigration pathways for economic class immigrants. According to the 2023-2025 immigration levels plan, the main admission pathways are Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and Express Entry, while applicants for other economic class pathways such as IRCC pilot programs and the Atlantic Immigration Program must complete IRCC-designated language tests. For example, under the popular Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), candidates must achieve at least CLB 7 in all four skills (writing, reading, listening, and speaking), and the minimum requirement for the Atlantic Immigration Program is CLB 4.
IRCC approves Pearson Test of English for Canadian immigration applications | Canada Immigration News (cicnews.com)
