IRCC Approves the Pearson Test of English (PTE)

Canada immigration applicants can further opt for the Pearson Test of English (PTE) as IRCC approves it as a designated language test. PTE becomes one of the three English language tests along with IELTS and CELPIP. Candidates can prove their English language proficiency to IRCC through the newly designated test.

What is the Pearson Test of English (PTE)?

PTE is an English language test that student and immigration applicants opt to prove their proficiency in English. It is one of the most accepted English language tests globally. The test uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to determine the score and gives faster results. 

IRCC does not mandate any particular test for Canadian immigration. All three tests are equally strong in assessing English language skills. All three tests assess (listening, reading, writing, and speaking) the core abilities of applicants. The acquired language test results must be within two years for a valid application.

IRCC recognizes that PTE possesses the requirements of Canadian language standards. IRCC approves five language tests, including two other French language tests - TEF Canada and TCF Canada.

Language proficiency in English or French helps economic-classic candidates to contribute economically in Canada. As per Statistics Canada research, excellent proficiency in the English/French language is reliable for economic integration in Canada.

Further, IRCC did not confirm when applicants can consider PTE for Canadian immigration. It is anticipated to make the test officially effective by the end of 2023.

Among several pathways of Canada's economic class immigration, Provincial Nominee Program and Express Entry are the most popular. Applicants of other economic classes must also give the language test approved by IRCC. The English test is also mandatory for the pathways like - IRCC Pilot Programs, the Atlantic Immigration Program, and Quebec Skilled Worker Programs.

The spousal sponsorship, temporary immigration, and International Experience Canada do not require language proficiency.

What is the Canadian Language Benchmark?

Candidates must attempt the English test and achieve the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) under any pathway. For example - Federal Skilled Worker Program requires a CLB of a minimum of 7 in all skills (writing, reading, listening, and speaking). Some of the immigration programs require a CLB of 4. Generally, CLB levels run from 4 (poor) to 10 (excellent).

Candidates of Express Entry and Express of Interest programs will receive higher points based on the CLH score. Any candidate obtaining less than the minimum score of CLB is not eligible for Canadian immigration.

IRCC Launches Application Tracker for EE and PNP

Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program applicants can now track the application status online. The application tracker allows knowing your Canada PR application status after submission. You can perform certain changes required from your end to move your application further. The applicant tracker is a result of the plan to improve the digitization of IRCC.

IRCC: New Criteria for Express Entry Draws

IRCC to change the eligibility criteria of Express Entry draws. The public and stakeholders advised IRCC to revise the eligibility criteria for Express Entry candidates. Further, the new eligibility is based on work experience, educational background, and French language ability. IRCC does not merely depend on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CSR) score to determine the eligibility of the candidates. The new criteria is a better method that helps meet Canada’s economic needs and cover the labour shortage.

Quick update on Express Entry

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