PTE Essential is a new version of the Pearson Test of English that is very similar to PTE Academic. The key difference is it has a more vocational, real-life and non-academic focus that meets IRCC’s language proficiency requirements. It is anticipated that applicants seeking to use PTE Essential to provide proof of English language proficiency, for the purpose of Canadian permanent residency or citizenship, will be able to do so as of late 2023.

The UK, Australian and New Zealand governments already accept PTE Academic for all visa applications. PTE Academic is also accepted by 100 per cent of Australian, New Zealand and Irish Universities, 99 per cent of UK universities, and more than 90 per cent of universities in Canada.

Andy Bird, CEO, Pearson, said: “At Pearson, we see every day how English skills can transform lives. We’ve already seen how PTE Academic can help people take a huge stride towards being themselves in English in whichever country they choose to work or study. I’m delighted PTE Essential is now accepted in Canada for economic visas and proud of the innovation and rigor that sits behind the quick and high-quality experience our test provides to test takers.”

IRCC recently announced (https://apo-opa.info/3YXueoU) it plans to welcome a record number of permanent residents in the years ahead, approximately 1.45 million in total in the next three years. With high demand in Canada for professionals in areas such as nursing, engineering and web development, the approval of PTE Essential arrives at a good time for test takers and opens new opportunities for Pearson.

The fully digital test is delivered through Pearson VUE, the computer-based testing business of Pearson. The latest AI technology is used for scoring; biometric data collection provides enhanced security measures and voice recognition software is applied for the speaking element of the test. These cutting-edge technologies ensure the provision of an impartial and highly accurate test of people’s English language proficiency.

Furthermore, test takers can book online up to 24 hours in advance, take advantage of year-round worldwide test centre slots and receive their results on average within 1.3 days.

PTE Essential will be rolled out across Pearson’s existing network, with more than 400 PTE centres in 118 countries.