New second language oral test (21-04)

The Public Service Commission of Canada is pleased to announce the launch of a new oral test on April 6, 2021. The Second Language Evaluation - Oral Language Assessment replaces the Second Language Evaluation - Test of Oral Proficiency as well as the temporary second language interviews.

The test, which is in an interview format, is administered online using MS Teams (a web conference tool) to confirm candidate identity. It assesses all levels of oral proficiency; based on their performance, candidates may receive one of the following results: X, A, B, C or E.

Test results are portable, valid for 5 years and available to departments and agencies through our Test Results Search Tool or to candidates upon request. Successful results from the second language interviews for levels B and C administered on or after December 15, 2020, remain valid for 5 years.

Accommodation requests for this test must be submitted by human resources units through the Second Language Evaluation – Scheduling System. If using MS Teams poses an accessibility challenge for a candidate, we will work with the department or agency to make alternate testing arrangements.  

For more information on this new test and how to schedule it, visit our Oral Language Assessment web page.

Please contact our consultation services at cfp.cpp-ppc.psc@cfp-psc.gc.ca to discuss any concerns or to learn more about options for second language assessment.

Robert McSheffrey
A/Vice-President
Services and Business Development Sector
Public Service Commission of Canada