IRCC to accept new language test for Canada PR applications

If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, here is an important update for you, you will have another option for proving your language proficiency in English.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that it will begin accepting the TOEFL Essentials test as part of its language requirements for permanent residence (PR) applications.

To date, IRCC has yet to officially include the test among the options for language proof assessment; this change is on its way, however. Once all is said and done, information about the exact dates as well as test sites will be made available on their official website. For candidates who had been studying for language tests, this step adds much-needed flexibility and convenience.

Why does it matter for applicants?

Proof of language ability is one of the most important requirements in your Canada PR application. In fact, whether applying through Express Entry, a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or some other economic stream, your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English (or French) directly affects the score of your application.

Thus far, applicants could choose between three English-language examinations:

• IELTS test (International English Language Testing System) 
• CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
• PTE Core (Pearson Test of English)

With the inclusion of TOEFL Essentials in this list, you now have a fourth option for demonstrating your English skills. This means if you're already familiar with TOEFL, or if it is more accessible in your country, you don't have to switch to another test.

Who stands to benefit from this change?

The new testing option will apply to candidates applying through IRCC's economic immigration programs, including:

Express Entry programs such as:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Of course, since PNPs are governed by provinces and territories, they decide individually on the adoption of TOEFL Essentials. But overall, the update opens up doorways to a wide arena of applicants.

Calculate Your CRS Points

About the TOEFL Essentials test

You might be wondering how this test is different from other English tests. The TOEFL Essentials test aims to measure the four modular skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking by using task-based activities that reflect real-life communication. The TOEFL test will be available at a secure test center in Canada or worldwide.

To sum it up:

• The test lasts roughly 1.5 hours, which is quite short when compared with many of the current tests.
• Format: Four sections (listening, reading, writing, and speaking), with a short, unscored personal video statement.
• Nature: Blends elements relevant to both academic and general contexts in such a way that it is useful for a candidate's practical purposes on both social and professional fronts.
• Unofficial results for listening as well as reading are available immediately.
• Official results are available online within six days.

For many candidates, the lesser duration with the fast score availability certainly makes TOEFL Essentials a very practical option.

Why is IRCC adding TOEFL Essentials?

On August 21, the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the body administering the TOEFL, announced that it has now been officially accredited as the designated authority for the tests by the IRCC. The ETS further specified that they are now working with the Canadian authorities on the next steps, including confirmation of acceptance timelines and test centres.

This addition is a part of Canada's larger immigration strategy. By introducing TOEFL Essentials, more flexibility is being extended to applicants from different parts of the world. It also stresses ensuring that skilled workers from diverse backgrounds are not limited by the availability of tests back in their countries.

What should the applicants do next?

If you are already preparing for IELTS or CELPIP, you do not need to change your plan unless TOEFL Essentials looks like a better fit for you. But if you are more comfortable with TOEFL or if the IELTS and CELPIP test centres are not easily reachable for you, this new option could help fast-track your application process.

Keep in mind: IRCC uses Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) to validate scores from all accepted tests. So, irrespective of any test chosen, the result will be converted into CLB levels in order to assess whether the applicant fulfills the program's requirements.

Key takeaways

For anyone planning to apply for Canada PR, the upcoming acceptance of TOEFL Essentials will be big news. More choices equal less stress regarding test availability and perhaps a quicker way to demonstrate English skills.

This change could apply to any applicants through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program, or Atlantic Immigration Program. Please keep an eye on the IRCC official updates to know the exact timeline of when you will start applying through the TOEFL Essentials route.

At the end of the day, Canada is making it easier for skilled workers like you to immigrate to Canada, and this is just another step toward opening the doors to your Canadian dream.

Tags: Canada PR language test English test for Canada immigration TOEFL for Canada PR Canada PR eligibility New English test Canada immigration Immigration language test Canada Canada Immigration News