Growing Popularity of PTE and TOEFL – to Study in Canada

For the longest time, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) has been the dominant English Language proficiency test asked by The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for International Students. By expanding English language proficiency testing options beyond IELTS, the IRCC has announced that it will accept language test results from four new tests for Student Direct Stream (SDS) applicants effective from August 10, 2023.

The New Tests That Are Eligible for SDS Category:

• CELPIP General
• CAEL
• PTE Academic
• TOEFL iBT Test

PTE, TOEFL Popular Among Alternatives

A variety of English language proficiency tests will be accepted by applicants as of August 10, 2023, including the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) General, the CAEL Test, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic, and the TOEFL iBT.

As Canada is one of the most popular study destinations and has started accepting PTE, TOEFL and other language tests as an alternative to the IELTS. This has increased the popularity of PTE and TOEFL among international students. PTE and TOEFL’s increased accessibility is one of the factors contributing to their popularity in Canada. Traditionally, IELTS has been the dominant English proficiency test on the market, however, PTE and TOEFL are alternatives. Since individuals may have preferences or find these tests better suited to their strengths, a larger pool of students has been able to showcase their language skills. By accepting different language proficiency tests, Canada has opened its doors to a more diverse range of applicants, thereby fostering inclusivity and equal opportunity.

Game Changer for International Students

In the past few years, the growing popularity of alternate English proficiency tests such as PTE and TOEFL has provided immense relaxation to international students seeking to pursue their higher education in countries like Canada, the UK, the USA, Australia etc. Students now have more flexibility and chances to prove their language proficiency and successfully get into their dream university. Let’s have a look at the positive impacts that it has on international students:

• Enhanced Accessibility: Enhance accessibility is the primary reason behind the growing popularity of both tests. Unlike the traditional language proficiency tests like IELTS, PTE and TOEFL are available throughout the year and can be taken at a number of authorised centres. It allows the students to plan their exam dates according to their convenience and not according to availability. 
• Quicker Results: Whilst IELTS takes up to two weeks to publish scores, PTE and TOEFL provide students with their results within a few days. It enables students to proceed with their admission process earlier and also reduces the result anxiety.
• Computer-Based: Another reason that makes these tests appealing to international students is their computer-based format. There are no face-to-face interviews or paper-based writing tasks, these tests are entirely conducted on computers. It provides a comfortable experience to tech-savvy students.
• Objective Scoring System: Both these tests have an objective scoring system that relies on automated grading algorithms. In assessing language proficiency, this standardized approach ensures consistency and fairness. Since these tests are transparent and objective, students appreciate the fact that their scores are based solely on their performance and not on individual examiner bias.
• Test Structure: The structure of these tests has been designed so perfectly that it reflects the real-life usage of the English language. It includes a wide range of question types that keeps the students interested throughout the test. It prepares students for future academic, professional and personal settings.

Conclusion

IRCC has given a great sense of relaxation to international students by approving alternate English-language tests for Student Direct Stream. Moreover, it has started a surge in the popularity of PTE and TOEFL. Authentic test content and structure, computer-based design, objective scoring system, and enhanced accessibility have all contributed to the appeal of these tests. PTE and TOEFL offer students the flexibility and convenience they need to achieve their academic goals and demonstrate their English proficiency more confidently, enhancing their chances of academic and professional success.