Canada to Accept PTE Academic for SDS Applications

In a recent announcement, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) updated Pearson PTE Academic as a new pathway to Canada with SDS (Student Direct Stream) Visas. Starting from 10th August, the Pearson test of English will join other tests like IELTS and TOEFL designated by IRCC. Over time, the PTE exam has grown its acceptance and popularity on a large scale worldwide. The acceptance of PTE Academic brought a vast scope for test takers to prove their abilities and skills. If you are about to begin preparing for English proficiency tests to apply for a study visa, this blog will help you!

What is the Student Direct Stream for a Canada study visa?

A student can apply under two streams for a Canada study visa, i.e.,  SDS and Non-SDS. Under the SDS category (Launched in the year 2018), the processing time for a study permit is faster and within almost 20 calendar days, whereas, in Non-SDS, the processing time is slow, approx 2-3 months. Also, to apply under SDS category, a student must be from one of the 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.

What is PTE Academic for SDS applications?

PTE stands for Pearson Test of English, accepted globally to study, work, and migration. It is basically a two hours computer-based test recognized by various educational institutions and organizations worldwide, now applicable for Canada's SDS study visa applications from the 10th of August 2023. The test assesses four main language skills. Each of the four sections is scored separately, and the scores are then combined to provide an overall score. The overall score is based on the Global Scale of English (GSE), which ranges from 10 to 90 points. Different institutions and organizations may have different score requirements for admissions, visas, or employment purposes.

• Speaking: This section evaluates your ability to communicate in English. You should repeat sentences, describe images, answer questions, and engage in a simulated conversation.

• Writing: In this section, you will be asked to write responses to given prompts. It may include writing an essay, summarizing a text, and responding to a graph or chart.

• Reading: The reading section involves tasks assessing your written English comprehension. You'll need to read passages and answer questions about them.

• Listening: The listening section evaluates your ability to understand spoken English. You'll listen to audio clips and then answer questions based on what you've heard.

Benefits of choosing PTE Academic for SDS applications

Both the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are widely recognized English language proficiency tests that are accepted by universities, colleges, and immigration authorities around the world. Choosing between the two depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. Here are some potential benefits of choosing PTE Academic over IELTS:

1. Computer-Based Format: PTE Academic online is a fully computerized test, which means all test components are conducted on a computer. It can be beneficial for those who are more comfortable with digital technology and typing. It also ensures a consistent and unbiased scoring process.

1. Quick Results: PTE Academic typically provides faster results than IELTS. You can expect to receive your scores within 2-5 days after taking the test, whereas IELTS scores take up to 13 days.

1. Integrated Skills Assessment: PTE Exam focuses on assessing all language skills (listening, reading, speaking, and writing) in an integrated manner. For example, in the speaking section, you might have to listen to a recording and respond, which more closely mirrors real-life communication scenarios.

1. Scoring System: PTE Academic uses an automated scoring system less prone to human bias. It can provide a sense of objectivity in the scoring process, as an algorithm rather than human examiners determine the scores.

1. Repeat Sentence Task: In PTE Academic, there is a "Repeat Sentence" task where you listen to a sentence and then have to repeat it accurately. It can be advantageous for individuals more comfortable with listening and repeating than spoken responses from scratch.

1. Flexible Test Dates: Pearson PTE Academic offers more frequent test dates, giving you greater flexibility in choosing a date that suits your schedule. It can be beneficial if you're in a hurrying to take the test.

1. Variety of Accents: PTE Academic includes a wide range of accents in its listening section, which can prepare you for diverse real-world English language interactions.

1. Security Measures: PTE Academic incorporates robust security measures to prevent cheating and ensure the authenticity of test-taker performance.

However, the suitability of PTE Academic versus IELTS depends on your individual preferences, strengths, and the specific requirements of the institutions you are applying to. Before deciding, consider Western overseas for better guidance or research the specific English language proficiency test requirements of the universities or organizations you are interested in and choose the one that best aligns with your strengths and circumstances. We at Western overseas also help you with PTE exam booking, language academy pte practice, and many more. So, Visit the Western Overseas without any delay.