Extension and changes to temporary measures for second language evaluation and changes to terms of use for unsupervised test results (22-01)

To continue supporting departments and agencies in their staffing activities during the evolving COVID-19 context, the Public Service Commission (PSC) has made the following changes to its temporary measures for second language evaluation:

• The use of measure 1 (exemption from the requirement to use PSC second language evaluation tests) has been extended to September 30, 2022 but will only apply to the assessment of 2 language skills: reading comprehension and written expression. This means that as of April 1, 2022, a second language evaluation test approved by the PSC must be used when assessing oral interaction for all appointments. Note that when using alternate methods of evaluation for reading and writing, departments and agencies must respect the amended Guiding principles for alternate methods to second language evaluation tests.  

• The use of measure 2 (extension of the validity period of expired second language evaluation results) will not be extended after March 31, 2022. However, to provide more flexibility to departments and agencies, the requirement to confirm second language evaluation results within 24 months of the appointment has been amended to allow departments and agencies to use a PSC approved test or an alternative assessment method. A reminder that alternative assessment methods must respect the Guiding principles for alternate methods to second language evaluation tests and can be used to confirm any of the second language competencies (reading comprehension, written expression and oral interaction).

We have also made the following changes to the terms of use for PSC second language evaluation unsupervised test results: 

• The results of PSC second language evaluation unsupervised tests of written expression and reading comprehension for level B or C are now valid for 5 years and can be reused for other appointments within the same department or agency. These changes are retroactive and apply to all PSC unsupervised written expression and reading comprehension test results since the implementation of these tests on June 4 and July 8, 2020, respectively.  Departments and agencies continue to be responsible for documenting and tracking these results for their staffing purposes.

Our questions and answers for human resources specialists have been updated accordingly. 

For more information, consult our information for managers and human resources specialists web page or contact your staffing support advisor. 

Sincerely,

Gaveen Cadotte
Vice-President
Policy and Communications Sector
Public Service Commission of Canada

Ravinder Rakhra
Vice-President
Services and Business Development
Public Service Commission of Canada