Maple News reports that as of January 30, 2024, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core is now officially accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for a wide range of immigration pathways. This decision offers prospective immigrants another English language testing option, enhancing flexibility and accessibility on their journey to Canada.
According to IRCC, the PTE Core is now approved for use in all economic immigration pathways and other purposes such as Canadian citizenship applications—except for the Student Direct Stream (SDS). Eligible applicants include those under Express Entry programs, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), and skilled worker streams under various immigration categories.
The PTE Core is a computer-based exam that evaluates general English proficiency through tasks designed to mirror real-world communication. It assesses four language skills—speaking, writing, reading, and listening—within a two-hour testing period. Testing centers operate across more than 400 global locations, making access widely available to candidates around the world.
The exam is divided into three major components: Speaking and Writing (50 minutes), Reading (30 minutes), and Listening (30 minutes). Results are typically delivered within 48 hours and graded using a combination of human evaluators and artificial intelligence to minimize bias.
PTE Core replaces the previous PTE Essential, which was initially greenlit by IRCC in 2023. Applicants are reminded to select the correct test for immigration purposes; other PTE formats, such as PTE Academic, are not valid for most immigration streams.
Language testing plays a crucial role in Canadian immigration, where all applicants must prove proficiency aligned with the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB). A comparison table is used to convert PTE Core scores to CLB levels, helping candidates interpret their results accurately.
This move brings the PTE Core in line with other recognized language tests like IELTS General Training and the CELPIP General. The inclusion of another test provider aims to reduce bottlenecks in scheduling and improve the overall application experience for immigration candidates worldwide.
Maple News will continue to monitor updates as IRCC expands its language testing framework to further facilitate accessible, transparent, and equitable immigration processes.