Global testing operator Pearson PTE received sanction to begin secure testing operations for UKVI. The UK government has given approval to PTE to open bookings for Secure English Language Tests in an additional 72 locations, including India, for the purpose of visas and immigration. This new wave of approved locations includes the first 8 centres in the UK and 15 centres in India as well as in Japan, Egypt, Philippines, South Africa, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia and Singapore, among others. People can now take PTE as a Secure English Language Test (SELT) for UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) purposes in all these countries.
Bookings can be taken at all locations, with 57 of these locations open to deliver testing, and the remaining 15 to open once individual COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. The tests will be delivered through the Pearson VUE test centre network. Pearson VUE test centres follow health and safety guidance provided by global health organizations and local governments.
Pearson’s SELT tests are as follows:
PTE Academic (UKVI)
A four skills language test accepted for work and study visas. It tests speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.
PTE Home
A two skills language test accepted for family, settlement, citizenship applications as well as Sportsperson and Representative of an Overseas Business applications. It tests speaking and listening skills.
Amid COVID-19, the test centres operate with increased disinfecting and hygienic procedures and additional social distancing measures to support the safety of testing candidates and staff. Pearson expects all remaining SELT testing locations will become operational this summer.