By Admin, #OasisVisas 
Foreign nationals aiming to immigrate to Canada will soon have another option to demonstrate their English language skills. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that it will begin accepting the TOEFL Essentials test, administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), as proof of English proficiency for permanent residence applications.
Although the test is not yet being accepted, IRCC has stated that its official website will be updated once the rollout begins. This move will expand the testing options available to applicants under Canada’s permanent economic immigration programs.
Announcement from ETS
On August 21, ETS announced that it has been officially designated by IRCC as a recognized language testing organization. ETS further noted that it is currently collaborating with IRCC to finalize the approval process, test locations, and launch timelines for TOEFL Essentials.
Who Will Benefit?
Once in effect, the new option will apply to candidates applying through IRCC’s major economic immigration pathways, including:
- Express Entry-managed programs
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) – Though acceptance may vary depending on provincial requirements.
About the TOEFL Essentials Test
TOEFL Essentials is designed to assess the four key language skills listening, reading, writing, and speaking through practical, real-life tasks. The test lasts about 1.5 hours and is conducted at secure test centres in Canada and worldwide.
Structure
- Four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking
- Includes a short, unscored Personal Video Statement
- Uses short, fast-paced tasks in both academic and general contexts
Scoring
- Instant results are available for listening and reading right after the test
- Official results are released online within six days or less
- Score reports can be sent to unlimited institutions without extra cost
Current English Tests Accepted by IRCC
At present, IRCC recognizes the following tests for economic immigration applicants:
- CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- PTE Core (Pearson Test of English)
Language proficiency is assessed using the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) system. The inclusion of TOEFL Essentials will give future applicants more flexibility and choice when proving their English skills for Canadian permanent residence.