Change to temporary measure on use of alternative methods for assessing second language proficiency (23-01)

Dear colleagues,

The Public Service Commission (PSC) will be making the following change to the temporary measure allowing departments and agencies to use an alternative method to assess second language proficiency (measure 3).

As of September 1, 2023, measure 3 will no longer apply to the assessment of reading comprehension and written expression.

Departments and agencies authorized by the PSC to use measure 3 may continue to use an alternative assessment method to assess oral competency until further notice.

Please note that alternative methods still must respect the Guiding Principles for Alternate Methods to Second Language Evaluation Tests: Targeted Policy Exemption.

Departments and agencies will continue to report on second language evaluation measures in their annual reporting to the PSC. More information about reporting will be provided in the Appointment Delegation and Accountability Instrument Annex D reporting form.

The questions and answers for human resources specialists have been updated to reflect this change. For more information, please contact your staffing support advisor.

Thank you.

Michael Morin
Acting Vice-President
Policy and Communications Sector
Public Service Commission of Canada