Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic), a leading online language proficiency test, will be an approved proof of English language proficiency for immigrants, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced.

This means for the first time all visa applicants to New Zealand will have a choice of government-approved English language testing options. PTE Academic is already accepted by 100 per cent of New Zealand universities and widely used by student visa applicants, a statement from Pearson said.

Karim Daoud, managing director of Pearson in the Middle East, said: “I am delighted by the decision of INZ to accept PTE Academic. There are many people in the Middle East for whom immigration to New Zealand is a dream. The recognition of the Pearson Test of English as approved proof of English language proficiency by INZ provides these people with more choice in the type of test they choose to undertake”.

Vinne Schifferstein, director language testing for Pearson, said: “Pearson is proud to achieve INZ recognition. PTE Academic is a secure English language test that enables test-takers to access their scores quickly.

“We are also approved by the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection for all visa tiers, so the New Zealand Government’s approval further consolidates PTE Academic as the fast growing secure test for visa applications.”
 
David Barnett, managing director of Pearson Australia and New Zealand, said: “For many years applicants from non-English speaking countries, such as India, China, the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore were limited in their choice of tests to prove their English language proficiency.

“While our test is academically challenging it is based on the real life English migrants need. The test provides a seamless user experience, from booking, testing, through to receiving results making the process less stressful for applicants and organisations processing a test taker’s application.
 
“Pearson looks forward to assisting the New Zealand government with recruiting skilled migrants to their workforce.
 
“The computer-based test uses cutting edge technology to ensure score reliability, and integrity of the testing process. It also offers the fastest score reporting in the market, with test takers receiving their results typically within five business days,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service