Maple News reports that CELPIP, one of Canada’s key English language testing providers, has released additional testing dates in response to an overwhelming demand created by the federal government’s newly announced pathways to permanent residency (PR). This expansion aims to support thousands of essential workers and international students already in Canada, who are eager to apply for one of six limited-time immigration streams.
The announcement was made via CELPIP’s official Twitter account on April 26, detailing that new test sittings have been added from May 12–16, though in limited capacity. The organization emphasized it is committed to increasing national testing availability and providing equitable access for all applicants across regions.
This move follows a technical disruption just over a week earlier, when CELPIP’s website experienced a surge in traffic as applicants rushed to book tests—an essential component required for eligibility under the new immigration programs.
According to Betty Chan, Vice President of Operations at CELPIP, the organization has worked closely with partner test centres to stabilize systems and boost seat availability. “We are proud that our centralized operations have enabled quick responses to soaring demand,” she said, noting thousands of new testing seats have been opened through the end of May, with more to be added in June and beyond.
The demand stems from the Canadian government’s launch of six new PR pathways, opening May 6. These special streams are aimed at granting permanent residency to approximately 90,000 essential workers and international student graduates already residing in the country, with no cap for French-speaking applicants. However, spots are limited and are expected to fill rapidly. Applications will close either on November 5, 2021, or once all quotas are filled.
To qualify, essential workers must present a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 4 on a recognized English exam like CELPIP, and international graduates require a CLB score of 5. Language test results are mandatory at the time of application, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
While CELPIP will not be providing further updates through social media, test takers are encouraged to monitor availability and register for real-time notifications directly on its official website.
Maple News continues to monitor updates on Canada’s evolving immigration measures, especially those offering expedited paths to permanent residency for workers and students contributing to the country’s economic and social fabric.