Pearson Test of English launched in Sri Lanka

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) qualification was officially launched in Sri Lanka by British High Commissioner James Dauris recently at Westminster House, Colombo.

The launch ceremony was attended by a large gathering of business professionals, heads of organisations and education institutes, principals and education agents.

 Speaking at the launch, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, James Dauris, said that the education links between the UK and Sri Lanka would continue to go from strength to strength. 

“The addition to the market of the Pearson Test of English will, I am sure, be warmly welcomed by both companies and individuals alike who will be able to take advantage of this internationally-acclaimed product,” he added.

The High Commissioner further said that British education standards were highly valued and respected in Sri Lanka and around the world.

PTE Academic is a computer-based test which delivers real-life measures of test takers’ language ability. The test is designed for non-native speakers who wish to study in an institution where English is the primary language of instruction. PTE Academic is recognised by many leading institutions worldwide.

Making a presentation on the program PTE Pearson’s Regional Director – Asia, Premila Paulraj said the launch of its PTE Academic and the Pearson Test of English for Young Learners in Sri Lanka was very timely. 

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) qualification is officially launch by British High Commissioner James Dauris, Pearson’s Head of Partner Markets – Asia, Steven McGill and Pearson’s Regional Director Asia, Premila Paulraj 

PTE scores are widely accepted internationally for immigration and to study abroad. Desirable features of these tests include their flexibility in scheduling exam times at the convenience of the candidate and the almost immediate test results. 

“The whole test is done in a single session, lasting three-hours and is taken sitting at a computer in a secure test environment. The speaking part of the exam is done at the computer. Your voice is recorded and sent for marking. One advantage of this test is that you get your results very quickly; in about five working days. PTE Academic is a multi-level test, like IELTS, TOEFL and TOEIC,” Paulraj stated.

Furthermore, she said that the PTE Academic score reports showed how well test-takers did on the four communication skills — listening, reading, speaking and writing, as well as the enabling skills of grammar, oral fluency, pronunciation, spelling, vocabulary and written discourse. 

Test takers are provided with information on their performance on each section so that they can improve their skills in specific areas if needed. 

“We are confident that this suit of English Language Teaching (ELT) tests and qualifications will give the opportunity for students to be tested by the most sought-after Pearson English Language tests,” she added.

Pearson’s Head of Partner Markets – Asia, Steven McGill said: “We believe that the ability to communicate effectively in English is crucial to international success in education and in the workplace. 

He also noted that it is really good news for all students who are aiming to study abroad that PTE Academic is now available here. “Our products are designed to provide fast and reliable results that our students, partners and institutions can rely on. PTE Academic was created in response to demand for a more accurate, objective, secure and relevant test of English.”

The PTE Academic qualification assesses real-life English skills needed at university and for living abroad, and is accepted for university applications by prestigious institutions for thousands of academic programs worldwide.

Pix by Lasantha Kumara