A noteworthy development in the realm of language proficiency testing has arisen. The esteemed Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has entrusted Pearson, the world’s leading learning company, to launch its newest language test, PTE Essential. This new version of the Pearson Test of English is designed with a more practical and real-life focus to meet IRCC’s language proficiency requirements. The digital test, delivered through Pearson VUE, harnesses the latest technology such as AI scoring and biometric data collection for enhanced accuracy and security. Test takers can receive their results in just 1.3 days, with the option to book a test at one of the 400 PTE centers located in 118 countries, and take advantage of year-round testing slots. PTE Essential arrives at a crucial time, with Canada’s plans to welcome a record number of permanent residents and a high demand for professionals in various fields. Pearson’s innovation and rigor behind the quick and high-quality testing experience truly transforms the lives of those seeking to prove their English language proficiency.
Introducing PTE Essential
PTE Essential will be available to book in late 2023. Approved for Canadian migration.
The new Canada-approved test for work and migration
A new addition to the Pearson Test of English (PTE) suite of tests, PTE Essential is a 4-skills test that assesses your everyday – instead of your academic – English skills.
PTE Essential is ideal for people who wish to work, migrate, or seek permanent residency in Canada, and will be recognized by the Canadian Government (IRCC) for all economic visa categories.
Planning to study in Canada? PTE Academic is still the right test for you.
Everything you expect from a PTE English test
PTE Essential has all the same features that have made PTE Academic so popular with test takers.
Simpler: a single computer-based test at a test center
Faster: Get scores within 2 business days
Fairer: automated scoring that reduces human bias
Common questions
What is PTE Essential, and who is it for?
PTE Essential is a new addition to the Pearson Test of English (PTE) suite of tests. It is a 4-skills test that assesses general English skills for everyday situations rather than academic English skills. PTE Essential is recognized by the Canadian Government for work and migration visas and is ideal for people who wish to work, migrate, or seek permanent residency in Canada.
Is PTE Essential suitable for studying in Canada?
No, PTE Essential is not suitable for studying in Canada. PTE Academic is still the only PTE test suitable for studying in Canada.
What is the difference between PTE Academic and PTE Essential?
The difference between the two tests is that PTE Essential focuses entirely on testing your English skills in everyday situations rather than in academic settings. PTE Academic, on the other hand, is suitable for studying in Canada and is accepted by all the same universities and professional institutions as before.
When will PTE Essential be available to book?
PTE Essential will be available to book later in 2023. The date will be announced closer to the time.
Can PTE Essential be taken online or at home?
No, PTE Essential will only be available to take in PTE test centers.
What PTE Essential score do I need?
The PTE Essential test will have a score range of between 10 and 90, with 90 being the maximum score. Test takers will receive a personalized Score Report that shows the overall test score plus the score breakdown for each of the four English skills (Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking). The score you will need for your visa will depend on the type of visa you apply for. This score requirement can be found on the Canadian Government website.
How can I prepare for PTE Essential?
The most valuable way to prepare for PTE Essential is to familiarize yourself with the test format. Pearson will provide a test handbook, videos, and written instructions to guide you through each question type. Other preparation materials will also be made available in the future.
Where can I take the PTE Essential test?
Once booking opens, PTE Essential will be available to take in PTE test centers in Canada and worldwide.
