IRCC now accepting Pearson Test of English for Canadian immigration

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core test will be accepted for all immigration streams from January 30th, 2024, with the exception of the Student Direct Stream.s

This implies that candidates for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Express Entry controlled programs, and individuals who require a language exam for any other Canadian immigration reason (other than the SDS)—including seeking for Canadian citizenship—can now take the PTE Core.

What is PTE Core?

The PTE Core is a computer-based language test that focuses on showing general English proficiency for Canadian immigration. The exam measures daily English skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening within a two-hour timeframe. There are around 400 testing facilities worldwide.

According to Pearson’s website, the exam is graded by both humans and AI to limit the possibility of bias. Test results can usually be provided within two days.

The PTE Core is divided into three parts:

· Speaking and writing (50 minutes);

· Reading (30 minutes); and

· Listening (30 minutes).

The PTE Core has replaced the old PTE Essential test, which was authorized for Canadian immigration last year. Pearson, like other certified language testing firms, provides a variety of examinations (for example, PTE Academic). Immigration aspirants are recommended to take the appropriate test for their selected program.

Five acceptable tests for language

With the advent of the PTE Core, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) now accepts five different language exams for immigration reasons. They are:

Available tests include CELPIP General Test (English), IELTS General Training (English), PTE Core (English), TEF Canada (French), and TCF Canada (French).

All five of these examinations examine language proficiency in four areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Depending on the program for which they apply, individuals may be required to satisfy different criteria within these four talents.

For example, immigration prospects applying through Express Entry-managed programs will require various scores according on the program they select. Candidates for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) must have a minimum CLB level of 7 in all languages. However, under the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), applicants must have a minimum CLB level of 5 for speaking and hearing, as well as a level 4 for reading and writing. Furthermore, candidates for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) must have a least CLB level 7, or level 5, across all language abilities, depending on the National Occupation Classification (NOC) skill level of their work.