Canada's New English Proficiency Test from February 2024

Canada immigration PTE Core English Proficiency Test 

In a recent announcement, Pearson revealed that bookings for its Test for English (PTE) Core, the latest addition to the suite of English proficiency tests for Canadian immigration, are now available. This new test, alongside IELTS and CELPIP, provides applicants with a third option to showcase their English language skills.

Starting from February 12, 2024, individuals seeking to demonstrate their proficiency in English for immigration purposes can book the PTE Core. The test, conducted in a computer-based format within a test center, spans two hours and evaluates four crucial language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

What sets the PTE Core apart is its real-life, non-academic focus, in contrast to the PTE Academic, which is primarily recognized for Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa applications. The PTE Core aligns with the language proficiency requirements of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and addresses specific migration needs in Canada.

Gio Giovannelli, President of the English Language Learning division at Pearson, expressed excitement about the global rollout of PTE Core, emphasizing its design to assess real-life language skills, enabling test-takers to demonstrate proficiency in a natural context.

PTE Core boasts a fully digital format utilizing AI technology for scoring and biometric data collection to enhance security measures. Pearson collaborated with the Canadian government to ensure that the test reflects language commonly used, tailored for a Canadian audience.

Jennifer Bell, a Pearson media liaison, highlighted the use of real-life examples and language appropriate for individuals with English as a second language. The test aims to provide a more accessible and practical evaluation.

The PTE Core will be available across Pearson’s extensive global network, with over 400 PTE centers in 118 countries. In Canada, eight Pearson testing centers are currently operational, with plans for additional centers to be introduced.

Test-takers can book PTE Core online up to 24 hours in advance, with year-round availability of test center slots worldwide. Results are promised within 1-3 days, thanks to AI technology and a human review process.

Pearson already offers the PTE Academic, accepted by over 90% of universities in Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, and the UK. However, the PTE Academic Online is not suitable for work and migration purposes, unlike the PTE Core.

This announcement aligns with the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) efforts to admit 465,000 new permanent residents this year, emphasizing the importance of language proficiency tests for economic-class programs.

As prospective immigrants navigate the Canadian immigration landscape, tools like the Moving2Canada immigration quiz can help identify suitable pathways. This quiz offers insights into eligibility and provides exclusive content to support individuals on their immigration journey.