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Germany Opportunity Card for International Workers

Thinking about launching your career in Germany, the economic engine of Europe?

Then what are you waiting for buddy? Move to Germany for work NOW!

Don’t worry, we will tell you HOW!

The new German Opportunity Card might be your golden ticket! This opportunity card is designed to be a game-changer for skilled professionals from outside the European Union seeking to land their dream job in Germany.

But what exactly is an Opportunity Card, and how can you get one? What are the current trending jobs in Germany? That’s where we come in! In this blog , we’ll break down everything you need to know about the German Opportunity Card.

So grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and let’s start this journey together. By the end of this blog, you’ll have a clear roadmap to securing your Opportunity Card and moving one step closer to your new life in Germany.

What is the Germany Opportunity Card

The Germany Opportunity Card, also known as the Chancenkarte, is a new immigration policy introduced by the German government to attract skilled workers from non-EU countries. This is a great option for those who can come to Germany without a job offer. They can then search for a job in Germany.

This card allows individuals to enter Germany to look for a job that matches their qualifications and work in Germany. It is part of Germany’s efforts to address labor shortages in various industries by making it easier for skilled workers to come to the country.

Advantages of the Opportunity Card

The Opportunity Card offers several compelling advantages for skilled professionals looking to work and live in Germany. Here are some of the key benefits:

  • New and easier way to enter Germany.
  • Enjoy a 12-month stay in Germany, and search for a full-time job.
  • You can do part-time jobs for up to 20 hours per week.
  • Attain a monthly income of over 1000 euros.
  • Chance to find a qualified part-time / full-time job.

Eligibility Criteria for Germany Opportunity

To be eligible for the Germany Opportunity Card, applicants must meet certain criteria. These include:

  • Qualification – A recognized university degree or vocational training that is equivalent to German standards.
  • Work Experience – Relevant work experience in the field of your qualifications.
  • Language Skills – Proficiency in German(Level A1)  or English (Level B2) is required.
  • Self-Sufficiency – Proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your job search in Germany.

As the German opportunity card is a point-based program, candidates must score a minimum of 6 points.

Points Distribution for the Opportunity Card

The points system is relevant if you cannot demonstrate that you have a German qualification or that your foreign qualification has been fully recognized. Under this system, points are awarded to applicants who meet various criteria, contributing to their overall score. You must reach a total of six points to secure the Opportunity Card.

Points for Education

  • 4 points: Diplomas and qualifications partly recognized by Germany.
  • 3 points: 5+ years of work experience in the past 7 years in your qualified field.
  • 2 points: 2+ years of work experience in the past 5 years in your qualified field.
  • 1 bonus point: Vocational training in one of Germany’s bottleneck professions, including education, nursing and other health professions, crafts, construction professions, metal and mechanical engineering, and information technology.

Points for Language Skills

  • 3 points: German Level B2 and above.
  • 2 points: German Level B1.
  • 1 point: German Level A1 – A2.
  • 1 bonus point: English Level C1 and above.

Points for Age

  • 2 points: Under 35 years.
  • 1 point: Between 35 – 40 years.

Points for Ties to Germany

1 point: Previous stays in Germany of at least 6 months in the past 5 years. But a previous visit as a tourist doesn’t count.

Points for Spouse

1 point: If you plan to move to Germany with your spouse, who is also eligible and planning on applying for the Chancenkarte.

How to Get the Germany Opportunity Card

The application process for the Opportunity Card can be done in two ways:

1. From Germany: If you’re already in Germany, you can apply at the local Foreigners’ Registration Office (Ausländerbehörde).

2. From Your Home Country: You can apply at the relevant German mission abroad (embassy or consulate) in your home country.

Germany Opportunity Card Requirements

Here’s what you’ll typically need to gather for your Opportunity Card application:
Germany Opportunity Card

Opportunity Card Processing Time

The processing time for the Germany Opportunity Card can vary based on several factors, including the country of application and the completeness of your documentation. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned move to Germany.

Wrap Up

As you wrap up your reading journey with us, we hope you now feel capable and inspired to kick off your search for the Opportunity Card in Germany. Remember, this card isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s your key to unlocking a world of professional growth, cultural enrichment, and personal fulfillment in one of Europe’s most dynamic countries.

If you have any further questions or need assistance navigating the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at CanApprove. Our dedicated team of experts is here to support you every step of the way, turning your aspirations into reality.

So go ahead, seize this opportunity, and make your mark in Germany. Your future awaits – and with the Opportunity Card in hand, the possibilities are limitless.

Contact CanApprove today and let’s turn your dream of working in Germany into a thriving reality!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a job seeker visa and an Opportunity Card?
The Job Seeker Visa allows non-EU nationals to enter Germany for up to six months to find a job, but they cannot work during this period (they need to apply for a work permit). The Opportunity Card, on the other hand, uses a points-based system to grant a 12 months  stay with the potential to work while job searching. It also offers more support and flexibility for integrating into the German job market.
Which skilled workers are in demand in Germany?
Germany is looking for skilled workers in various fields, including engineering, IT, healthcare, and skilled trades. Sectors like manufacturing, automotive, and green energy are particularly in need of qualified professionals. You can find a list of in-demand professions on the Federal Employment Agency website.
What is Germany’s most common job?
The most common jobs in Germany vary, but some of the largest sectors include healthcare (nurses, doctors), IT professionals (software developers, system administrators), and engineering (mechanical, electrical, automotive engineers).

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Create an Online Express Entry Profile

Looking to immigrate to Canada? The Express Entry system is your ticket to a smoother, faster application process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your online Express Entry profile.

Things to Do Before Creating Express Entry Profile

Before starting your Canadian PR journey by creating an Express entry profile, it’s important to make sure that you are eligible for one of the three federal programs: Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program and Federal Skilled Trades Program. Once you’re sure that you qualify for one of these programs, you can start the steps towards creating your profile.

Steps To Create an Express Entry Profile

Steps To Create an Express Entry Profile

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

First things first, gather all your documents. You’ll need your passport, language test results (like IELTS or CELPIP), and educational credential assessment (ECA).

Step 2: Create an Online Account

Next, head to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website and create an online account. This account will be your platform for managing your Express Entry profile and application.

Step 3: Fill Out the Profile Form

After creating your account, start filling out the Express Entry profile form. Provide accurate and up-to-date information about your education, work experience, language skills, and other relevant details.

Step 4: Review and Submit

Make sure to double-check all the information you’ve entered. Accuracy is key to avoiding delays or complications in your application process. Once you’ve filled out the profile form, submit it online. You’ll receive a confirmation of receipt from IRCC.

Step 5: Wait for ITA

Now comes the waiting game. Your profile will enter the Express Entry pool along with other candidates. While waiting, keep an eye on your email and account notifications.

Step 6: Keep Your Profile Updated

Keep your profile updated. If your circumstances change, such as getting a new job or improving your language skills, make sure to update your profile accordingly.

Step 7: Receive an ITA

Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Candidates with the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores in general and those from certain categories will receive ITAs to apply for permanent residency.

Step 8: Submit Your Application

Once you receive an ITA, you’ll have a limited time to submit your application for permanent residency. Make sure to gather all required documents and submit them before the deadline.

Step 9: Wait for Processing

After submitting your application, wait for the processing to complete. IRCC will assess your application and may request additional information or documents if needed.

Step 10: Receive Approval

If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a Permanent Resident Visa (if applicable).

Step 11: Congratulations!

Congratulations! You’re now a permanent resident of Canada. Welcome to your new home!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an Express Entry profile be updated?
Yes, an Express Entry profile can be updated as long as it’s active and up until an Invitation to Apply (ITA) has been received.
How can my Express Entry profile be selected?
Express Entry profiles with the minimum CRS scores in each round will be offered ITAs. In order to ensure maximum CRS score possible, you must update your profile periodically and try to boost it by improving factors such as language proficiency, educational qualifications and so on. Focusing on category-based nominations such as French language proficiency may also help.
What should I do if my profile expires?
Once your profile expires, you will have to create a new profile and re-enter your data once again.
How long is my profile valid for?

Your Express Entry profile will only be valid for 12 months.In summary, creating an Express Entry profile is a straightforward process that involves gathering documents, filling out an online form, and waiting for an invitation to apply. By following these steps and staying organized, you can increase your chances of success in immigrating to Canada through the Express Entry system.

However, if you are feeling overwhelmed or confused by any particular step in the process, that’s normal too! Sometimes there are just too many documents to submit and too many rules to keep in mind. That’s where CanApprove can make a big difference. Thanks to our expertise regarding Canada immigration, we will be able to smooth out the process for you.

Simply contact one of our agents today for a free consultation, and we’ll help you with the process of setting up an Express Entry profile or any other immigration related query you may have.

Shah Rukh Khan-starrer ‘Dunki’ and the Reality of Immigration 

Actor Shah Rukh and Director Hirani’s Bollywood-drama movie Dunki is a human story of illegal immigrants. 

The story is set in 1995 when a group of friends aspires to immigrate to the UK. But their hope is dampened when they fail to qualify for IELTS, the most recognized test for English proficiency. 

Later, they take an illegal route called ‘donkey flights’ to immigrate, only to settle in London as janitors, cab drivers, and tailors. Eventually, they find their way back to India after nearly three decades. 

But skilled-based immigration makes up for more inspirational stories

While there are cases of immigrants ending up in low-wage jobs, economic immigration to Canada, Australia, the UK, and the USA remains aspirational for many. 

The fact of the matter in Dunki is its attempt to showcase the difference between the rich and the poor, the highly skilled and low-skilled, and their aspiration for a better life abroad. 

Here, we shall explore the flourishing opportunities for Indians under skilled-based economic immigration programs in Canada and Australia. 

 

Basics: Types of Immigration

 

There are several ways to categorize immigration, but two common approaches are based on motivation and immigration status.

By Motivation:

 

1. Economic immigration is driven by the desire for better economic opportunities, such as higher wages, more job security, or greater career prospects. 

2. Family reunification immigration involves people moving to be with close family members who are already citizens or permanent residents of another country. 

3. Refugee immigration involves people fleeing persecution or violence in their home country. They may be granted asylum or refugee status in another country. 

4. Humanitarian immigration involves people who are granted entry to another country based on humanitarian grounds, such as if they are suffering from a serious illness or have been the victim of a natural disaster. 

 

By Immigration Status:

 

1. Citizens: People born in a country or who have gone through the process of naturalization to become citizens have the full rights and privileges of citizenship. 

2. Permanent residents: People who are not citizens have been granted the right to live and work in a country indefinitely. They may eventually be eligible to apply for citizenship. Canada is the most preferred destination to obtain PR

3. Temporary residents: People allowed to live and work in a country for a limited period, typically for reasons such as studying, working, or visiting family. 

4. Undocumented immigrants: People who are living in a country without legal authorization. They may be at risk of deportation. 

 

Numbers Check: Indians in Canada & Australia

 

Both Canada and Australia have witnessed a significant rise in the number of Indian immigrants in recent years, primarily driven by economic factors. Let’s delve into the statistics and trends: 

Feature Canada Australia
Indian Population 1.8 million (5% of total) 800,000 (3.5% of total)
Population Growth since 2001 200% 150%
Primary Immigration Pathway Skilled worker programs Points-based system (skilled & semi-skilled)
Economic Contribution High, key roles in various sectors Significant, across diverse occupations
Regional Distribution Concentrated in major cities (Toronto, Vancouver) More spread out across major cities (Sydney, Melbourne)

Both Canada and Australia have thriving economies with strong demands for skilled labor in various sectors like IT, healthcare, and engineering. These align well with the skillsets of many Indian professionals.

Read more>> Canada’s Green Tech Industry Presents Exciting Employment Opportunities for Immigrants 

Further, both countries have consistently ranked high in terms of quality of life, offering factors like stable political systems, excellent education and healthcare systems, and multicultural environments, appealing to families and individuals seeking a better future.

 

Comparison: Canada vs Australia Immigration Points System

 

Canada generally has a more points-based system favoring skilled workers, while Australia has a broader system encompassing skilled and semi-skilled occupations. This might make Canada initially more appealing to highly skilled professionals.

The Express Entry system in Canada manages applications for direct PR. It includes candidates qualifying under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canada Experience Class. Furthermore, candidates with prior provincial nominations get additional points to qualify easily for the selection draws. 

In recent times, Canada Express Entry has held category-based selection draws. It invites candidates based on their work experience in a particular occupation alone. The selection draws for six categories have been announced so far: 

1. Healthcare

2. STEM professions

3, Trades

4. Transport

5. Agriculture and agri-food and

6. French-language proficiency.

Whereas, there are four visa subclasses for skilled immigration in Australia. You can qualify under two direct pathways for Australian PR (Subclass 189, Subclass 190) or two provincial pathways (Subclass 491, Subclass 188). 

Let’s compare the core human capital criteria for qualification including Age, Work Experience, Language Proficiency, and Education. 

1. Applicant Age Criterion 

 

Canada Immigration Points System
Australia Immigration Points System
Age Group Points Age Group Points
18-35 years 12 18-24 years & 33-39 years 25
36-40 years 11-7  25-32 years 30
41-46 years 6-1 40-44 years 15
47 years & above 0 45 years & above

In terms of age criteria, Canada awards maximum points to the younger population over 18 years who would typically pursue higher education before gaining work experience in related occupations. 

On the other hand, Australia prefers candidates who are in their prime working age (25-32 years) to qualify for permanent residency.  

 

2. Applicant Work Experience Criterion

 

Canada Immigration Points System
Australia Immigration Points System
Work Experience Points Work Experience Points
1 year 09 1-3 years (outside Australia) 0
2-3 years 11 3-4 years (outside Australia) 05
4-5 years 13 5-7 years (outside Australia) 10
6+ years  15 8+ years (outside Australia) 15

Australia is biased in awarding points based on work experience. 

Australia awards maximum points to eligible skilled workers who have had work experience inside Australia. For example, 

1. 3-4 (experience in Australia):  10 points

2. 5-7 (experience in Australia):  15 points

3. 8+ (experience in Australia):  20 points

On the other hand, Canada remains neutral and prefers any candidates with work experience outside or inside Canada.  

Australia considers eligible candidates with more than 3 years of work experience as against Canada which considers skilled workers for immigration with just over 1 year of work experience.

Contact our immigration consultants to know the latest in-demand occupations for immigration. 

 

3. Language Proficiency Criterion

 

Canada Immigration Points System
Australia Immigration Points System
English Proficiency Points English Proficiency Points
CLB 9 or higher 24 Competent English 0
CLB 8 20 Proficient English 10
CLB 7 15 Superior English 20

The distinguishing factor here is Canada has two official languages: English and French, whereas Australia considers English as its official language. Therefore, interested candidates have to qualify for language proficiency according to the requirements of the permanent residency program. 

CLB stands for Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) and is equivalent to the standard proficiency test available for English and French. Those who show proficiency in French are given an additional 4 points along with their band score in CLB. 

 

4. Applicant Education Criterion

 

Canada Immigration Points System
Australia Immigration Points System
Education Points Education Points
Degree/Diploma 19 Degree/Diploma 10
Bachelor’s Degree 21 Bachelor’s Degree 15
Doctorate 25 Doctorate 20

Canada is more liberal in awarding assessment points based on the applicant’s educational qualification. This is more because Canada allows for the direct immigration of eligible candidates even without study or work experience in any of the Canadian provinces or territories. 

Further, Canada awards assessment points for additional categories like 

1. HS or SC Diploma:  5 points

2. College Certificate:  15 points

3. BS / MBA / Master’s:  23 points

Both countries favor retaining international students after graduation. While Canada awards a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for 3 years, Australia also offers a flexible work visa for graduating students. These visa holders gain work experience inside the country and may be eligible to qualify for permanent residency later. 

Some minor details may have been overlooked here for the sake of uniformity. Contact our immigration consultants now for the Canada vs Australia immigration points system based on your profile. 

 

The Verdict

 

The movie Dunki addresses an important issue of immigration and questions the divide between high-skilled and low-skilled in aspirational Western countries. It brings forward the plight of illegal immigration in a dramatic way.  

However, skilled-based economic immigration is still relevant in countries like Canada, the UK, the USA, and Australia. Several individuals have made their fortunes by legally immigrating to such developed countries. 

To know more about existing opportunities and eligibility, book a free appointment with expert immigration counselors at CanApprove. 

Meanwhile, go watch ‘Dunki’ if you’re a fan!

Check out the latest changes to Australia occupation lists

Australia has recently introduced some important changes to its lists of eligible occupations for migration. As part of these changes, 36 new occupations have been added to the Medium and Long-Term Skill List that include professional footballers and tennis coaches. Eighteen occupations were added to the Regional Occupation List while a total of 27 occupations were removed from the Short Term Skill Shortage List.

According to the Department of Home affair, the skilled occupations lists are updated time to time in order to ensure that the migration of skilled workers to Australia is in tune with the changing labour market needs of the country.

Changes to the Regional Occupation List:

In the latest update to the Skilled Occupation Lists, 18 new occupations were added to the Regional Occupation List. The newly added occupations include livestock, beef, dairy, sheep, aquaculture and crop farmers, among other agricultural roles. It is expected that these changes would be beneficial for Australian farmers who are fighting drought and also for regional communities. “We want Australians filling Australian jobs but when this isn’t possible, action is needed to ensure farmers can continue to operate,” Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, David Coleman said.

The Regional Occupation List for Australia immigration allows employers to foreign workers to live and work for the sponsoring employer in a specified region in Australia for a maximum period of four years. The sponsored workers in designated areas can also apply for permanent residency later. They enjoy concessions in English language, salary and work experience requirements while applying for permanent residence.

The latest changes to the Regional Occupation List will be applicable only to the new applications and will not affect the existing nominations or applications.

18 occupations added to Australia’s Regional Occupation List:

  • Aquaculture Farmer
  • Cotton Grower
  • Fruit or Nut Grower
  • Grain, Oilseed or Pasture Grower (Aus)/field crop grower
  • Mixed Crop Farmer
  • Sugar Cane Grower
  • Crop Farmers nec
  • Beef Cattle Farmer
  • Dairy Cattle Farmer
  • Mixed Livestock Farmer
  • Deer Farmer
  • Goat Farmer
  • Pig Farmer
  • Sheep Farmer
  • Livestock Farmers nec
  • Mixed Crop and Livestock Farmer
  • Dentist
  • Anaesthetist

New occupations added to MLTSSL:

  • Arts Administrator or Manager  
  • Dancer or Choreographer
  • Music Director
  • Artistic Director
  • Tennis Coach
  • Footballer
  • Environmental Manager  
  • Musician (Instrumental)
  • Statistician
  • Economist
  • Mining Engineer (excluding Petroleum
  • Petroleum Engineer
  • Engineering Professionals nec
  • Chemist
  • Food Technologist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Environmental Research Scientist
  • Environmental Scientists nec
  • Geophysicist
  • Hydrogeologist
  • Life Scientist (General
  • Biochemist
  • Biotechnologist
  • Botanist
  • Marine Biologist
  • Microbiologist
  • Zoologist
  • Life Scientists nec
  • Conservator
  • Metallurgist
  • Meteorologist
  • Natural and Physical Science Professionals nec
  • University Lecturer
  • Multimedia Specialist
  • Software and Applications Programmers nec
  • Horse Trainer

Occupations removed from the Short Term Skill Shortage List:

A total of 27 occupations were removed from the Short Term Skill Shortage List

  • Visual Arts and Crafts Professionals
  • Textile, Clothing and Footwear Mechanic
  • Watch and Clock Maker and Repairer
  • Chemical Plant Operator
  • Library Technician
  • Arts Administrator or Manager
  • Dancer or Choreographer
  • Music Director
  • Artistic Director
  • Footballer
  • Aquaculture Farmer
  • Cotton Grower
  • Authorised Version Explanatory Statement registered
  • Fruit or Nut Grower
  • Grain, Oilseed or Pasture Grower
  • Mixed Crop Farmer
  • Sugar Cane Grower
  • Crop Farmers nec
  • Beef Cattle Farmer
  • Dairy Cattle Farmer
  • Mixed Livestock
  • Pig Farmer
  • Sheep Farmer
  • Livestock Farmers nec
  • Mixed Crop and Livestock Farmer
  • Dentist
  • Anaesthetist
  • Tennis Coach

Contact us to check if you are eligible for migration to Australia as per the updated lists.

 

Why Is It Important to Go Through an Eligibility Test Before You Apply for Immigration?

Migrating to a different country demands time, effort, money, and energy. Many fail in their immigration attempts even after making so much effort and spending too much money because they do not have ample knowledge regarding the risks involved. An eligibility test for immigration will give you a clear idea of your chances of migrating to your desired country.

Here’s a detailed discussion of why it is important to go through an eligibility test before you apply for immigration. So it will be a bad idea to go ahead with your immigration plan without first knowing if you meet all the criteria required to immigrate to your desired country successfully. 

How can I go through an eligibility test for immigration?

An eligibility test for immigration evaluates an applicant’s basic eligibility to migrate overseas. This includes age, skillset, financial ability, demand, and a suitable visa. Here are some tips on how you can get through an eligibility test successfully.

Score High to be Eligible

eligibility test for immigration

Countries like Canada and Australia have an initial assessment and scoring system that helps them remove ineligible candidates. The scores are awarded based on several factors determining the candidate’s chances of settling in the new country. These include age, education, work experience, language proficiency, etc.

If you take an eligibility test with Canapprove, we can assess your profile based on these factors and tell you if you can immigrate to your desired country. We can point out the areas in which you can still improve to score higher points, such as language proficiency, work experience, and qualifications.

If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, we can tell you which is the best province for you to settle in. We will also help you apply for these provinces’ provincial nominee programs. We also offer similar services for Australian immigration as well.

Better Job Opportunities

eligibility test for immigration

Based on the eligibility test, an expert immigration consultant can tell you how much your occupation is in demand in the country where you want to migrate. We, at Canapprove, assess the job prospects of each immigration aspirant based on their eligibility test. We also point out to our clients the specific regions or provinces where their occupation is in high demand, and hence, they can have a better chance of getting employment.

Be Ready with the Documents

eligibility test for immigration

Countries have different immigration programs for people with different skill sets and qualifications. For example, Canada has immigration programs such as Express Entry, provincial nominee programs, investor immigration programs, etc. Upon an assessment based on the eligibility test, an immigration consultant can tell which immigration program is the best for you to apply to. They will also tell you what documents you need to submit along with the application. These may include transcripts of your mark sheets, certificates, identity proof, etc. So you will have ample time to collect all the needed documents before you apply for immigration.

Time and Money

Time and Money

After the eligibility test, the immigration consultant will tell you how much time it will take to complete the entire immigration procedure and settle down in the new country. He will also inform you how much money you will have to spend to migrate. This will help you plan and start preparing accordingly.

The following are some of the factors that determine the importance of an eligibility test for immigration.

  • According to American immigration law, every applicant for a green card must pass an immigration medical exam, proving they are healthy enough to reside in the country. A review of medical history and immunization records, a physical and mental assessment, a drug and alcohol test, and tests for a variety of ailments are all included in the examination.
  • You need to fulfill some requirements to be eligible for a PR visa in Canada. These include being at least eighteen years old, not having a criminal record, passing the points-based immigration system, and having enough money to support your family and yourself.
  • Points-based eligibility evaluations are mandatory in certain countries, like the UK and Australia. 
Wrap-Up

Meeting the requirements and getting through the eligibility test is one of the important steps in a visa application. And, if you run into any problems with this process, we’ve got you! CanApprove has more than 25 years of hands-on expertise in providing immigration services to more than 1000 clients, witnessing them fly to their dream destinations. 

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We have a team of the best Canada immigration consultants and Australia immigration consultants who make sure your abroad journey is smooth and impeccable. Looking for more information about immigration-related queries? Get in touch with our immigration experts at CanApprove right away! We’d love to hear from you! 

4 Differences You Should Know Between IELTS and PTE Examinations

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Examinations are two of the most popular English language proficiency tests.

The IELTS, established in 1989, is a test to assess the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. The test is jointly conducted by British Council, Cambridge English Language Assessment and IDP Education. The Pearson Test of English (PTE), established in 2009, also assesses and certifies the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. Edexcel, the largest examining body of the UK, and QCA accredit this examination.

Though both the tests are similar in many aspects, there are also remarkable differences between the two. While IELTS is accepted by European, Australian and American universities, PTE is also gaining recognition in universities across various regions. One has to carefully look into the differences between the two tests in order to choose the one in which he/she can get a better score.

Let’s explore the four important differences between PTE and IELTS

1. Versions

Both IELTS and PTE have two common versions: Academic and General. PTE has an additional version named Young Learners Test. The Academic versions are for students seeking university admission and the General versions are for those seeking job opportunities. The PTE Young Learner’s Test is to certify the English communication skills of children.

2. Test structure

There are a few core differences between IELTS and PTE in their test structures. In IELTS, the speaking skills are evaluated based on a live conversation test. But in PTE, the candidate speaks to a microphone, which will be recorded in a computerized system. This recording is then evaluated by a computer program. While IELTS is paper-based, PTE is totally computer-based. In IELTS, time is set for each paper and the candidate can move forwards or backwards. But PTE has section timings and the candidate can move only forward.

While IELTS test takers will get their results after 13 calendar days, PTE test takers will receive their results online after five business days.

3. Scoring

PTE has a complete automated scoring system compared to the manual scoring of IELTS. PTE grades a candidate in a 10-90 band while IELTS test takers are graded on a 0-9 band.

4. Date, location

The IELTS Academic test can be attended in any one of the 900 centers spread across 130 countries, on any one of the 48 pre-fixed dates. For IELTS General Test, a candidate can choose any one of the 24 pre-fixed dates to attend the test.

PTE Academic test centers are located across 50 nations. In India, PTE has centers in 15 cities. The test can be taken on any date, depending on the availability of seats.

For more information on language proficiency tests, education abroad and Canada or Australia migration, contact us now!

 

10 Reasons to Choose Canada

Canada is the world’s second largest country (by area) with 36.5 million people residing in its 10 provinces and 3 territories.

1.STANDARD OF LIVING

In addition to being ranked 9th in the United Nations (UN) quality of life ranking in 2016, Canada has ranked 9th out of 200 countries in the UN’s annual Human Development Index (HDI). Furthermore, out of 140 cities evaluated for the most livable cities in the world by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU); Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary (all cities in Canada) were among the top five.

2.MEDICAL BENEFITS

Canada provides state-funded healthcare facilities that enable people from all walks of life to have access to quality healthcare without worrying about paying heavy fees. Plus, if you are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident, basic healthcare is completely free of cost!

3.SAFETY AND SECURITY

Canada has strict gun laws, it is not only illegal to own handguns but only one-third of the population have a license to carry firearms – it is no wonder Canada was named the World’s most peaceful country in 2007 by The Economist. Additionally, the Legatum Global Prosperity Index (2016) has ranked Canada #2 in the world in personal freedom that measures the national progress towards basic legal rights, individual freedoms, and social tolerance.

4.GROWING ECONOMY

Since mid-2016, Canada’s economy has grown at a 4.3 per cent annual rate. Based on data from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, according to Business Insider, Canada ranks 20th out of the top 25 richest countries in the world with a GDP per capita of $45,981. Canada is also one of the most powerful countries in the world as it is a member of the G8 and Canada is one of the top Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries in spending on public postsecondary education.

5. IMMIGRATION OPTIONS

Canada has a fast-track system for immigration called Express-Entry for skilled workers. The skills of the applicants are ranked on their specific talents and job prospects through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) – the applicants with the highest ranking are offered permanent residency. 30 draws and up to 70,000 invitations with CRS scores below 450 are expected to be issued in 2017 for the Canadian immigration authorities to meet this year’s targeted annual immigration levels.

Canada has a Provincial Nomination Program (PNP) that enables Provincial and Territorial governments in Canada to attract immigrants to their region. This program enables individuals with the skills and experience required by the province(s) participating in Canada’s PNP to receive a Provincial Nomination Certificate which expedites the Canadian immigration and the Canadian Permanent Residency process.

6. IMMIGRANT-FRIENDLY

Approximately 20% of Canada’s 35 million people are from a foreign land, which makes Canada one of the world’s most multicultural countries. The diversity in Canada makes settling easier for immigrants as it plays a vital role in forming the tolerant and welcoming attitude of the government and people of Canada. The Legatum Global Prosperity Index (2016) revealed that Canada ranks 3rd out of 148 nations in the Social Capital sub-index which measures the strength of personal relationships, social network support, social norms and civic participation in a country.

Furthermore, Canada has many immigrant-serving organizations to help newcomers settle in. These organizations are funded by the government and their services are free. They are excellent sources of information and guidance. They also provide assistance with finding a job, finding accommodation, obtaining official government documents, learning English and/or French and obtaining other professional and/or educational qualifications.

7.RENOWNED EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTES

Canada is home to an excellent education system hence providing quality education to its residents. Canada provides both public and private education systems. The public schools are funded by the government and are free for students till 12th Grade. Canada is also equipped with public colleges and universities where students pay tuition that is substantially less than private colleges and universities. Some of the top Universities in the world like McGill University, University of British Columbia and University of Toronto are in Canada.

8.EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNTIES

The Legatum Global Prosperity Index (2016) has ranked Canada 3rd out of 149 nations in Business Environment. The Business Environment sub-index measures a country’s entrepreneurial environment including its business infrastructure, barriers to innovation and labour market flexibility. This ranking indicates that there are great employment opportunities available in Canada for people from all walks of life.

9.NATURAL BEAUTY

Canada has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world – Niagara Falls in Ontario; Banff National Park in Alberta; Prince Edward Island; Quebec’s Laurentian Mountains; and the Capilano River area in British Columbia.

10.JUSTIN TRUDEAU

Trudeau was elected the 23rd Prime Minister of Canada in October 2015. Since he was appointed, Trudeau has welcomed more than 28,000 Syrian refugees to Canada. He appointed Canada’s first ever gender balanced cabinet and lowered taxes for the middle class. Justin Trudeau represents Canada, and therefore his personality and actions are indicative of the amicable, tolerant and empathetic characteristics of Canada.