End of temporary measure on use of alternative methods for assessing oral proficiency (measure 3) (25-02)

As the Public Service Commission (PSC) has the capacity to meet current evaluation needs for second language oral testing and respond to any rapid increases in demand, the use of alternative methods for assessing oral proficiency (measure 3) will end effective October 1, 2025. The following changes will take effect:

• alternative assessment methods for oral proficiency will no longer be permitted
• results from alternative assessment methods for levels A and B will no longer be transferable between departments and agencies
• existing results from alternative assessment methods for oral proficiency (levels A, B, and C) that are less than 5 years old may be used for appointments within the department or agency, at the discretion of the hiring manager

The PSC will continue to monitor the use of alternative methods for oral proficiency until September 30, 2025. Departments and agencies will be required to report on this use in their annual reporting to the PSC.

Our questions and answers for human resources specialists and the guiding principles have been updated to reflect this change. For any questions, please contact your staffing support advisor.

Emma Orawiec
Vice-President
Policy and Communications Sector
Public Service Commission of Canada