Bookings for the new PTE Core English proficiency test for Canadian economic migration visa purposes are now available through Pearson..

The leading learning company in the world, Pearson, has officially opened bookings for its latest English language proficiency test, PTE Core. This new addition to the Pearson Test of English portfolio has gained approval from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and is now available for individuals seeking proof of English language proficiency for permanent economic immigration to Canada or Canadian citizenship. The inaugural PTE Core tests are scheduled to commence from February 12 onwards.

PTE Core, a two-hour computer-based exam, shares many features with its counterpart, PTE Academic. It assesses four essential English language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing, yet with a distinct focus on real-life, non-academic scenarios tailored to vocational test-takers. The test was specifically designed to meet Canada's migration needs and the language proficiency requirements set by IRCC, but it can be utilized to evaluate English proficiency for vocational purposes in any country.

Gio Giovannelli, President of Pearson's English Language Learning division, expressed enthusiasm about the global rollout of PTE Core, emphasizing its ability to evaluate real-life language skills, allowing test-takers to demonstrate proficiency while being authentic in English. Whether individuals are aiming to work, study, or migrate to Canada, Pearson now offers an English language proficiency test that aligns with their specific requirements.

Canada annually welcomes a significant number of permanent residents, temporary foreign workers, students, and visitors. With a focus on supporting economic recovery and post-pandemic growth, IRCC is expanding its Levels Plan to meet growing demands. PTE Core's approval comes at an opportune time, providing new opportunities for Pearson test-takers, particularly in professions such as nursing, engineering, and web development.

PTE Core, created to address Canadian economic migration needs, joins PTE Academic, which has been accepted by IRCC since August 2023 for all Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa applications. PTE Academic is already recognized by the majority of universities and colleges in Canada, as well as by governments in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand for visa applications. Additionally, it is accepted by universities in Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and 99% of universities in the UK.

Delivered through Pearson VUE, the computer-based testing business of Pearson, the fully digital PTE Core test utilizes cutting-edge AI technology for scoring, with human raters providing calibration and review. Biometric data collection enhances security measures, ensuring an impartial and highly accurate assessment of a test-taker's English language proficiency. Booking for PTE Core is available online up to 24 hours in advance, offering year-round worldwide test center slots, and test-takers typically receive their results within an average of two days.

Pearson plans to roll out PTE Core across its extensive network, encompassing more than 400 PTE centers in 118 countries, including 25 test centers in Canada.