06 May 2011
SUPPORT SERVICE LAUNCHED FOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN RESPONSE TO CRITERIA CHANGES FOR UK STUDENT VISAS
Pearson has launched a dedicated PTE Academic support service to help UK colleges and universities manage some of the challenges posed by changes to the UKBA’s criteria for Tier 4 student visa applications.
The service includes a telephone helpline, a seminar on the new Tier 4 English Proficiency requirement for UK student visas, a new on-demand test scheduling service in key markets and increased test date availability, so that institutions can be sure that all their applicants can get access to a SELT.
The criteria changes, which came into effect on 21 April, require that students demonstrate English language proficiency at B1 or B2 on the Common European Framework, depending on the course level. Students applying for courses below NQF Level 6 and all students applying to private institutions need to provide evidence of English language proficiency through a Secure English Language Test (SELT).
Pearson is pleased to announce that PTE Academic continues to satisfy the Government’s criteria for secure English language testing under the Points Based System and is listed as an approved SELT for Tier 4 student applications.
Pearson is working closely and in partnership with institutions and international advisors to make PTE Academic available where and when it is required. The test is delivered on a flexible basis throughout the international network of Pearson centers. To see a full list of the countries where the test is currently offered, see http://pearsonpte.com/centers
In addition to increasing test availability to support international recruitment, Pearson will also host a one-day seminar in association with BALEAP (The British Association of Lecturers in English for Academic Purposes) on 25 May. Designed for UK university admissions and English language professionals, the event will provide an introduction to the Common European Framework, in the context of Tier 4, presented by industry experts.
Emma Stubbs, Senior Vice-President, Language Testing comments “We are delighted that PTE Academic continues to satisfy the Government’s criteria for the testing of English language proficiency and so will remain on the approved list of test providers for student visa applications.
An important part of our tailored service for institutions is to listen and respond to what the market requires to help support international student recruitment. Our high level of service and flexible approach to meeting the needs of colleges and universities, combined with our fast, reliable and accessible test, place us in a strong and unique position to be able to help UK institutions through this period of change.”
For more information visit www.pearsonpte.com/visachanges