USQ first Australian university to open Pearson Academic Testing Centre

USQ will become the first university in Australia to open a Pearson (PTE) Academic Testing Centre on 13 September.

The Pearson Test of English will compete with the established ‘International English Language Testing System’ (IELTS) and ‘Test of English as a Foreign Language’ (TOEFL) tests.

Mr David Bull, Director of the Open Access College said that this testing centre would provide an important service to the Darling Downs region and USQ.

'The PTE will provide a less expensive and more convenient alternative for people needing an internationally recognised English proficiency test result,” Mr Bull said.

'It will assist the University to ensure that all international students wishing to study with USQ have met the required English language entry requirements.'

The test has been developed by the publishing giant, Pearson and testing centres are being established around the world. The PTE introduces a new generation in the development of internationally recognised English language tests, applying sophisticated biometric equipment to ensure security of test administration and validity of results.

The Federal Government is expected to follow the lead of other governments and confirm PTE as an accepted English language test in the near future which will break an IELTS monopoly on visa and university proficiency testing. Many regional organisations outside of USQ use English language tests for their employees and a testing centre in Toowoomba will provide a crucial service for the region.

'Currently people wanting to take the tests have to book weeks in advance and travel to Brisbane, with this testing centre, waiting times and travel time will be cut.

'Students can book a test online and will undertake a three hour online test in a controlled environment which will be monitored and recorded with latest technology testing devices and fully trained staff.'

The testing centre equipment was installed by Pearson with the assistance of USQ Facilities and ICT.