Amended conditions for the use of COVID-related measures for second language assessment (20-14)

As staffing in the context of COVID-19 requires more flexibility to minimize the impact on candidates as well as human resources professionals and managers, the Public Service Commission of Canada (PSC) has decided to extend second language evaluation temporary measures until March 31, 2021, and to amend certain conditions for their use.

The amendments to the conditions are the following:

Measure 1: Exemption from the requirement to use PSC second language evaluation tests, and the use of alternate tests by departments and agencies

• Amendment: Removal of the requirement to confirm second language evaluation results using PSC tests within 12 months of appointment

Measure 2: Extension of the validity period of expired second language evaluation results

• Amendment: The period to confirm second language evaluation results using PSC tests is extended from 12 to 24 months after the appointment

These amendments apply to all appointments made using these measures as of March 24, 2020.

The guiding principles for alternate methods to second language evaluation tests and the questions and answers for human resources specialists on our website are adjusted accordingly.

We continue to increase our second language evaluation testing capacity, including through our online unsupervised tests, to support your staffing needs more effectively and efficiently.

Sincerely,

Patricia Jaton
Vice-President
Policy and Communications Sector
Public Service Commission