IRCC Starts Acceptance of PTE Academic for Canada Visa Applications from August 10, 2023

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has taken a significant step towards enhancing the application process for international students by announcing the acceptance of the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) for Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa applications. This move, effective from August 10, 2023, comes as part of IRCC's commitment to providing more options and flexibility while maintaining rigorous language proficiency standards.

The IRCC's decision to include PTE Academic in the list of approved English language tests has been met with praise from the higher education sector, lauding it as a strategic move to streamline and improve the application process for international students.

Under the new guidelines, students aiming to qualify for the SDS program must achieve an overall score of 60 in the PTE Academic test. Those who have previously taken the test and hold a valid Score Report can submit it for their SDS application. Importantly, PTE Academic tests taken before August 10th will remain eligible for SDS applications as long as they fall within the specified validity period set by the IRCC.

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) is designed to expedite the study permit process for students from select countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam.

PTE Academic is a globally recognised computer-based English language proficiency test trusted by educational institutions, governments, and organisations worldwide. Its fair, accurate, and secure assessment format offers test takers a reliable means of showcasing their English language skills for academic, work, and immigration purposes.

Andy Bird, CEO of Pearson, expressed his excitement about this recognition, highlighting the appeal of Canada as a prime destination for students. "Canada is a great place to be a student – fantastic colleges, beautiful scenery, exciting culture and nightlife. With PTE Academic now recognised for SDS purposes, I'm delighted that Pearson can help even more test takers achieve their dream of studying there," he stated.

This announcement aligns with IRCC's ongoing efforts to attract and welcome international students to Canada. The approval of PTE Academic further enriches the landscape of language proficiency options available to applicants and is anticipated to contribute positively to the growing number of international students choosing Canada as their preferred study destination.

There are now five designated language proficiency tests for economic class candidates, including PTE Academic, CELPIP, IELTS, TEF, and TCF, reflecting IRCC's commitment to accommodating diverse language evaluation methods.

With this development, PTE Academic solidifies its position as a leading English language proficiency test, offering students around the world a reliable pathway to pursue their educational aspirations in Canada.

Want to fast-track your Canadian journey? Contact an MWT Education Consultancy counsellor today!