English proficiency tests are considered to be a mandatory requirement for international students and migrants moving to Canada.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Pearson Test of English (PTE), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), DUOLINGO, and Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) are the language proficiency tests taken up by immigrants moving to Canada.
All these tests aim to check their English reading, writing, listening and speaking abilities. These tests become critical in cases of student visas and permanent residency visas.
While IELTS is a popular and widely accepted test score, candidates can opt for other options like PTE as well.
Pearson Test of English (PTE) is basically opted for the Australia visa process. The PTE score band is in line with the demands of the Australian immigration process. Hence, applicants applying for an Australia student visa or permanent residency visa opt for PTE as a go-to-option for their language proficiency test.
Candidates with a valid PTE score can also apply for a Canadian student visa.
However, Canada does not accept PTE scores for permanent residency visas.
TOEFL is the ideal language proficiency test when aiming for Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).
It is a 3-hour test that checks applicants' English reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Here is a brief overview of the test structure:
|
Section |
Time Limit |
Questions |
Tasks |
|
Reading |
54-72 mins |
30-40 questions |
Read passages and respond to questions |
|
Listening |
41–57 minutes |
28–39 questions |
Answer questions about brief lectures or classroom discussions |
|
Break |
10 minutes |
||
|
Speaking |
17 minutes |
4 Tasks |
Talk about a familiar topic and discuss material you read and listened to |
|
Writing |
50 minutes |
2 tasks |
Read a passage, listen to a recording, type your response |
PTE on the other hand is a 2-hour long test with 20 question types for the test takers. These questions can range from multiple choice to essay -type, all designed to test the applicant's English reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities.
Canada's 5 pillar immigration plan
- With a target of 431,000 people, Canada is all set to welcome the highest number of immigrants in history.
- Canada's immigration department will now focus on the 'Express Entry System', to make the visa process flexible and fast-tracked.
- The process of temporary work visas to permanent residency will now be fast-tracked and smoothed under this new policy.
- Focus on supporting communities through Francophone immigration.
- Increase in the processing capacity with technology-friendly approaches to suit the demands of the digital world.
If you are interested in learning more about the various English proficiency tests that are required for studying/working abroad, please check English Proficiency Course: TOEFL, PTE & IELTS Class in Nepal and get professional help in preparing for the language test applicable for you.