Pearson PTE Academic Test for Nurses Coming to the US
Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a computer-based language test that provides proof of your English skills for university, professional and migration applications. PTE Academic can be taken in 140 different countries at over 400 test centers (very possibly the same Pearson center you took the NCLEX). You can even register for a PTE test seat on the next day!
PTE Exam Changes for International Nurses: Important Information from CGFNS and AMN International
If you're an international nurse looking to work in the United States, it's important to stay updated on the requirements, especially for English proficiency tests like the Pearson Test of English (PTE). In a recent interview with Mukul Bhatnagar from CGFNS International, we learned about some key changes to the PTE exam and how they will affect international nurses. AMN International is here to support you with the resources you need to succeed.
How CGFNS Helps International Nurses
CGFNS International provides essential services to help foreign nurses work in the U.S. These services include:
1. **Visa Screen Certificate:** This is a must-have for employment-based visas, confirming that nurses meet U.S. immigration standards.
2. **Credential Evaluation Service (CES):** This checks if your nursing education from another country meets U.S. state licensing standards.
By partnering with companies like AMN International, CGFNS makes it easier for international healthcare workers to transition to their new jobs.
Key Updates to the PTE Exam: What You Should Know
Starting December 1, 2024, there are new speaking score requirements for the PTE exam for the visa screen program:
- **New Requirement:** You will need a minimum speaking score of 63, which is an increase from the previous requirement of 50.
- **Other Scores Unchanged:** Your scores in reading, listening, and writing will stay the same.
- **Only Affects Visa Screen:** These changes do not apply to state licensing, which has different requirements.
This update is important for nurses working with AMN International since it will affect visa applications and eligibility.
Why PTE Scores Are Changing
The PTE exam was introduced two years ago alongside other English tests like IELTS and TOEFL. However, there were issues with different difficulty levels among the tests. This meant that some nurses who might not have strong English skills could pass. To make sure everyone can provide quality care, CGFNS, along with Pearson and HRSA, reviewed the requirements and decided to raise the speaking score.
What This Means for Nurses: Key Dates and Tips
If you have taken the PTE exam or plan to, keep these points in mind:
1. **Grandfathering Scores:** Nurses who apply for a visa screen with a paid order by November 30, 2024, will still follow the old requirement (speaking score of 50).
2. **New Applicants:** After December 1, 2024, all new applications will need a speaking score of 63.
3. **Current Certificates:** If you already have your visa screen certificate, the new requirements won’t apply to you.
Tip: If you're working with AMN Healthcare International, feel free to reach out to your recruiter or licensure specialists for guidance on these requirements.
Choosing the Right English Test
When picking an English proficiency test, consider the following:
- **IELTS vs. PTE:** IELTS is accepted in almost all U.S. states, while PTE is accepted in about half. Although Pearson is working to increase PTE's acceptance, IELTS remains the more widely recognized option.
- **Future Considerations:** Choosing IELTS can enhance your chances of getting placed with leading healthcare recruiters like AMN International.
- **State-Specific Requirements:** Make sure to check the specific language requirements for the state where you want to practice to avoid having to retake exams later.
Being informed can help you increase your options and reduce the time it takes to start your nursing career.
Broader Changes to English Language Standards
CGFNS is working with HRSA to review and align English language standards across all tests. While we don’t have specific timelines, updates are expected by mid to late 2025. AMN Healthcare International is committed to keeping you updated on these changes for a smooth transition.
How AMN International Can Support You
AMN International is a leading recruiter for international nurses and provides unmatched support during the immigration, licensure, and placement processes. Working with a trusted recruiter like AMN ensures:
- Comprehensive help with English exams like PTE, IELTS, and TOEFL.
- Personalized assistance with state licensing and visa applications.
- Access to a wide range of job opportunities in the U.S., including top healthcare facilities.
Final Advice from CGFNS
Mukul Bhatnagar offered some important tips:
- **Choose Reputable Recruiters:** Organizations like AMN International can guide you through the complicated immigration and licensing process.
- **Plan Ahead:** Make sure your choice of English exam aligns with where you want to work to avoid delays.
- **Stay Informed:** Keep an eye out for updates from CGFNS and HRSA to stay ahead of any changes.
At AMN Healthcare International, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your professional goals. With these changes to the PTE exam coming up, we’re here to ensure you’re ready for success.
What Pearson PTE Academic Test Scores do I need?
This can be a little dicey as there are different requirements in play. HRSA has set their minimum scores in line with most of the individual states accepting PTE test outside of CGFNS, Josef Silny & Associates, International Education Evaluations, and other credentialing bodies. Most states have their minimum scores set for PTE as 55 overall with no section below 50.
Minimum Scores for VisaScreen and CP with CGFNS: 55 Overall, with no section below 50.
Minimum Scores required for Credentials Evaluation Service (CES) for Nursing Boards requesting CGFNS convey scores: 55 Overall with minimum in Reading, Listening, Writing of 50 and Speaking 63
*Delaware, South Dakota, West Virginia
As of March 17, 2023 the below State Nursing Boards accept PTE. Please verify with the individual board as requirements can change.
US Nursing Boards Accepting PTE Test via Licensure by EXAMINATION
Alabama *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Arkansas *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Arizona *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Colorado *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Delaware *55 Overall with minimum in Reading, Listening, Writing of 50 & Speaking 63
District of Columbia (Washington DC) *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Idaho *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Kentucky *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Louisiana *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Massachusetts *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Montana (no test required)
Nebraska *Overall 55, with no section below 50
New Hampshire *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Nevada *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Ohio *Overall 55, with no section below 50
Pennsylvania *Overall 55, with no section below 50
South Carolina *Overall 55, with no section below 50
South Dakota *55 Overall with minimum in Reading, Listening, Writing of 50 &Speaking 63
Texas *Overall 55
West Virginia *55 Overall with minimum in Reading, Listening, Writing of 50 & Speaking 63
Wyoming *Overall 55, with no section below 50
US Nursing Boards Accepting PTE Test via Licensure by ENDORSEMENT
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- District of Columbia (Washington DC)
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Montana (no test required)
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Texas
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Ready to Take the PTE Exam?
There are many ways to go about preparing for your English exam. Our international nursing agency provides English Exam Resources on our website and free live classes on our Connetics College Shows on our social media channels. In addition, we also partner with companies around the world to provide FREE review course through our Connetics English Exam Scholarships. There are also a number of free resources on the PTE website, as well as The Official PTE Academic app that prioritizes the key practice activities every test-taker needs to focus on and includes a study planner to help get organized.
Depending on how comfortable you feel in your English journey you might want to explore the question bank or spend some time in the English Booster to help you prepare. The question bank contains over 300 authentic PTE Academic test questions with answers and sample responses to help you build skills and strengthen performance. English Booster is a digital application that gives you hundreds of self-study activities and practice questions to help you prepare.
The Scored Practice Test is a fantastic tool to gauge how you might score if you took the PTE test at the current time. There are 5 versions available with different content for even deeper practice. Tip: Remember to screenshot your results as they won’t be officially delivered!
RELAX! Confidence is key in how you perform at almost any task. Speaking isn't different!