IRCC Approves New Language Test

The new language tests

Since 2010, IRCC has only accepted language test results from specific organizations as proof of language proficiency.

The current practice of only accepting test results from designated independent testing agencies should allow immigration applicants to demonstrate their language proficiency while ensuring a fair and transparent process.

CLRI is currently reviewing the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) out of concern that they are too "granular" to test compared to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). Instead of one to seven, GER candidates are graded alphanumerically: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. This is why only four organizations are designated: IELTS and CELPIP for English, and TEF and TCF for French.

The name of this new language test will be revealed on May 10, 2023.

The impact it will have

While organizations offering TEF and TCF are well positioned to meet growing demand, this work will allow the Ministry of Education to better respond to potential surges in demand, including through a more efficient process for specifying additional French language tests.

The IRCC Immigration Branch is always looking for ways to implement forward-looking actions to improve the language designation framework.

For the moment this new language tests is not yet implemented.