Canada will add the TOEFL Essentials test to the list of English language tests that will be accepted for permanent residency (PR) applications. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will accept the test sometime in the coming months, offering foreign nationals another avenue to demonstrate their skill in the English language when applying through economic immigration streams.
IRCC does not currently accept the test, but official announcements on implementation will be made in the coming months.
Also Read Canada to Introduce a New Language Test for PR Applicants
Announcement by ETS
The Educational Testing Service (ETS), the global agency that delivers the TOEFL around the world, made the announcement on August 21 that IRCC has accredited it as an approved testing provider. It is now collaborating with the Canadian officials in finalizing the technical and administrative formalities before formal acceptance begins, as stated by ETS. Test site details and start date will be announced when the process is completed.
Who will benefit from this change?
Introduction of TOEFL Essentials will presumably have a general impact on immigration streams under Canada’s economic class schemes, including:
Express Entry-managed schemes:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), though take-up could vary depending on particular provincial requirements.
This step broadens candidates’ testing options, reducing reliance on a small number of existing tests and offering greater flexibility for potential applicants worldwide.
About the TOEFL Essentials Test
The TOEFL Essentials test is intended to assess everyday English ability in academic and everyday contexts. The test assesses the four essential skills:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
Candidates also record an individual video statement (ungraded), which presents their approach to communication in everyday life.
Key Features:
- Test duration: Approximately 90 minutes.
- Administration: Conducted at safe testing facilities in Canada and overseas.
- Test design: Fast-paced, task-based activities designed to resemble everyday communication.
- Results: Unofficial listening and reading scores are readily available upon testing, with official scores typically provided online within six days.
- Score transmission: Reports can be sent to an unlimited number of institutions at no cost.
Current Language Tests Accepted by IRCC
Until TOEFL Essentials becomes fully implemented, IRCC accepts the below listed English tests for PR purposes:
- CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- PTE Core (Pearson Test of English)
All of these tests are benchmarked against the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) system, with the application of consistent language skills levels to immigration streams.
What this means for applicants
For the majority of potential immigrants, language examinations are typically among the most daunting obstacles in the process. The addition of TOEFL Essentials provides an alternate, widely accepted option, potentially reducing bottlenecks and making the process more accessible to candidates with mixed backgrounds.
While the test is presently not active for PR applications, immigration experts advise prospective applicants to check official IRCC releases to determine when they can begin making use of this test within their applications.
