PRESS RELEASES

  • Pearson PTE & CT University partner to boost study abroad opportunities

    Ludhiana, 12 June 2024: Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), the world’s leading learning company and CT University (CTU), a multi-disciplinary, student-centric and research-focused university, announced the memorandum of understanding (MoU) to provide Pearson Test of English (PTE) learning resources to the students of CT University, equipping them for English proficiency assessments and helping them achieve their dreams for studying abroad. 

    Through this association, Pearson and CTU will offer a range of benefits to students, including applicable student discounts on PTE, access to offline practice materials, PTE Train (the trainer session for faculties), informative seminar/webinar sessions and access to B2B partner portals. Additionally, students will have access to Pearson PTE's cutting-edge educational resources, including official guides and score practice tests, further assisting their study abroad journey. 

    CT University (CTU), stated, “At CT University, we are driven by a steadfast commitment to innovation, transformation, and excellence in education. Our vision is to nurture the next generation of global leaders who are equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Through our partnership with Pearson PTE, we continue to pave the way for our students' success, empowering them to realize their dreams and make a positive impact on society.”

    Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning at Pearson India said, “It is a delight to partner with CT University. Our mission is to empower students at CT University by enhancing their English language skills. We are committed to equipping these students to pursue global opportunities and achieve their academic and professional goals.”

    Pearson Test of English (PTE) is gaining and growing fast as the preferred test of English proficiency in the state. Earlier this year, Pearson announced the bookings open for PTE Core, its newest English language proficiency test for Canada Economic Migration. Alongside this, PTE Academic was accepted from August 2023 by IRCC as an approved English proficiency test for all Canada Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa applications – it is already recognised by more than 97 per cent of universities and 95 per cent of colleges in Canada. The UK, Australian and New Zealand governments also accept PTE tests for all visa applications. PTE Academic is also accepted by 100 per cent of Australian, New Zealand and Irish Universities and 99 per cent of UK universities.  

    About CT University

     CT University, part of the CT Group of Institutions, is dedicated to innovation and discovery, offering a diverse range of educational programs designed to meet the needs of today's learners. With a mission to undertake impactful research, develop global professionals, and prepare graduates to make a difference in society, CT University is committed to shaping the future of education.

    About Pearson

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That's why our c.18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world's leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn't just what we do. It's who we are. For more information, please visit www.pearsonplc.com.

    Visit us at:www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

    Media Contact 

    Bhavya Suri -  Bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

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  • Pearson Vocational Qualifications and Hyderabad School of Business join forces to equip students with Industry-Ready Skills

    Hyderabad, 10 June 2023: Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), the world’s learning company, and Hyderabad School of Business, a premier educational institution in Hyderabad affiliated to Osmania University, have joined hands to offer Pearson’s BTEC Higher Nationals courses in Business Management, Leadership and Strategic Management. Pearson BTECs are Vocational Skill Qualification programs, developed and validated in partnership with industry, universities and professional bodies, offering a diverse range of qualifications enabling learners a pathway to UK universities. 

    The Pearson BTEC Higher National undergraduate program qualification is generally considered equivalent to the first two years of a three-year honours degree in the UK and offers students a unique learning experience, through real-world scenario-based assessments and assignments. The qualifications have seen tremendous success globally, reaching over 1.05 million learners in more than 50 countries. 90% of BTEC students are likely to be employed after graduating. 

    “Our partnership with Hyderabad School of Business will strengthen our efforts in providing an immersive learning experience to students, equipping them with the confidence and expertise to thrive in the global workplace. Together, we aim to invest in the future of India's workforce, empowering individuals to achieve their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the nation's economic growth.” said, Jane Baker, Vice President, Pearson Workforce Skills.

    Announcing the partnership, Sanjeeva Reddy, Chairman of Hyderabad School of Business (HSB), said, “The education sector in India has undergone a significant transformation in the last three decades, with vocational education driving the current shift. Our partnership with Pearson will offer customized courses to meet student needs, providing invaluable exposure to the job market. We believe this collaboration will empower our students with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in today's dynamic workforce.”

    Aishwarya Reddy, Head of Pearson BTEC programs at Hyderabad School of Business (HSB), said, “Our ongoing commitment is to deliver top-notch education to our students. We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Pearson to introduce Higher National Diploma (HND) in Business programs. This course is designed to foster the holistic development of our students and unveil lesser known yet highly rewarding avenues, including the option for top-up degrees at the program's conclusion.”

    Pearson is working with the National Skill Development Corporation International (NSDCI) to promote Pearson BTEC qualifications across India. Globally, Pearson BTEC has collaborated with industry leaders such as Amazon Web Services, BMW Group, and Schneider Electric to design industry-specific customized qualifications for learners across sectors. In India, the courses are offered across key institutions such as Solitaire Business School (Hyderabad), Jetking Institutes (Mumbai), Buddha Group of Institutes (Karnal), amongst others. 

     About Hyderabad School of Business: 

    At the Hyderabad School of Business (HSB), our core mission is to inspire and empower individuals through transformative education. With a management team boasting extensive experience in the education industry since 1992, HSB is steadfast in its dedication to cultivating a dynamic and enriching learning environment, establishing itself as a beacon of academic excellence. Over the years, HSB has witnessed numerous successful batches graduate from its campus, a testament to our unwavering commitment to real-world impact. Our faculty and staff, comprised of seasoned industry experts from around the world, are passionate educators and professionals dedicated to fostering a holistic educational experience. As a premier institution, HSB offers a diverse range of programs and resources, ensuring students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in today's ever-evolving world. HSB serves as the ultimate destination for individuals aspiring to become holistic, well-rounded individuals. Explore more at https://hsbind.com/

     About Pearson: 

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com. 

    Visit us at:www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs,

    Media Contact  

    Bhavya Suri -  Bhavya.Suri@pearson.com

    Read More/ YourStory

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  • STUDY ABROAD: Why PTE is rising in the popularity stakes

    Globally, its volume grew by approximately 50% in 2023, administering over 1 million tests per year as per Pearson’s annual report 2023

    Proficiency in the English language plays a crucial role for overseas aspirants who need to mandatorily take English proficiency tests in their pursuit of higher education abroad, better job opportunities, higher salaries and a better social life. In the context of colleges worldwide, these tests ensure that students can understand lectures, read academic materials, participate in classroom discussions, and write research papers.

    Globally, the English assessment market is £1 billion. “In India, over 1.8 million English proficiency tests were conducted in 2023 specifically for opportunities to study, immigrate, or work abroad,” says Özhan Toktas, senior vice president, Pearson English Language Learning (ELL), who is in India for the launch of two products: Versant English Certificate and MondlyWORKS, which are targeted at corporate employees' learning and development (L&D). “The newly launched products integrate AI as the key component in language learning and assessment, enabling the streamlining of recruitment and the accurate evaluation of candidates' language proficiency,” he says.

    AI is a key enabler of the Pearson Test of English (PTE) as well, which is a part of the company’s global mobility initiative and witnessing growth in India. “The two-hour assessment, being AI-enabled, is unbiased,” emphasises Toktas highlighting the exam’s recognition in destinations such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the US and the UK. Total 99% of Canadian universities, 100% of Australian universities, and over 3,300 universities worldwide including Oxford University, Harvard Business School, Yale, Stanford University, University of British Columbia, among others, accept PTE Academic scores. “The popularity of the test has increased, with PTE’s acceptance by the Canadian government for economic migration and student visas. Globally, its volume grew by around 50% in 2023, administering over 1 million tests per year as reported in our annual report 2023,” Toktas says.

    As to its demand across various programmes for overseas study, he explains, “The United States offers numerous opportunities for STEM courses, while countries like France and Switzerland are preferable for hospitality programmes. PTE is used by a diverse range of learners for their study abroad plans, not limited to any specific field or course.” Talking about the effectiveness of the exam’s format, Toktas explains test takers can book online up to 24 hours in advance, take advantage of the year-round worldwide test centre slots and receive their results on average within 1.3 days. This seems to make it the fastest among the other proficiency tests that release the results anywhere between 7-13 days.

    While the two other assessment tests – IELTS and TOEFL – are in both pen and paper, and online formats, PTE, however, is a fully computerised AI-based test. “This makes the exam stress-free for the test taker, without the need for human intervention,” Toktas adds. Highlighting the difficulty levels of the assessment exams, he says different tests have different scores, but they are all mapped to a single score (which is the standard) as laid down by the regulatory authorities of a particular country where the tests are recognised. “We do have a suite of preparation materials, from books to question banks and practice papers but ultimately it is the skill and practice which will help candidates do better in the exams,” he adds.

    Evidently, Punjab, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana are the leading areas for study-abroad opportunities in India. Moreover, India sends the maximum students abroad followed by China.

    English is a strong employability skill, Toktas says, further adding, the use of AI or ChatGPT has increased the need for English language proficiency in recent years. “The demand for English language learning has consistently risen globally, driven by increasing globalisation, cross-border trade, and communication. Our recent report highlights this trend, with 85% of respondents stating that English is important for their work life and will continue to be so in the foreseeable future. Additionally, 79% believe that English is important today, with this number rising to 81% for personal life importance in five years,” he elaborates. “While we see AI as an enabler, a language skill developed with English makes a learner more resilient and adaptive. Combining both AI and English proficiency, learners can become globally competitive,” he adds.

    Key differentiators

    Based on the purposes and catering to distinct audiences depending on the countries’ requirements, PTE can either be PTE Academic or PTE Core. Both tests assess the four key English language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. However, the content and structure of the tests differ.

    PTE Academic primarily targets academic test takers, such as students applying to universities or colleges, focusing on evaluating language skills within academic contexts. In contrast, PTE Core is specifically designed for vocational test takers, emphasising real-life, non-academic scenarios relevant to professions and daily interactions. Additionally, the scoring criteria and test format may vary between the two tests to accommodate their respective target audiences.

    Further, PTE Core is for Canadian economic visa purposes only at present. People wanting to study in Canada for both Student Direct Stream (SDS) visas or worldwide and to live or work in the UK, Australia or New Zealand need to take PTE Academic as usual. Test takers should consider their specific objectives and linguistic competencies when choosing between the two tests.

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  • Pearson PTE’s Successful Partner Meet In Hyderabad; Unveils Plans For Growth

    Hyderabad Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), the world’s leading learning company conducted an exclusive partner meet in Hyderabad, to unveil its growth plans for the Pearson Test of English (PTE) in the state. Attended by 110+ partners, in the presence of Gareth Wynn Owen, British Deputy High Commissioner Hyderabad, the event brought together key partners, stakeholders, and industry leaders to discuss strategic collaborations. The focus was on expanding the partner ecosystem through exceptional customer service, comprehensive training programs, and raising awareness about market trends and opportunities. This gathering aimed at a significant stride toward empowering partners to achieve greater growth and success.

     At the event, Pearson announced the launch of Premium Partner Support (PPS), the new customer support service for select partners in India for PTE to demonstrate its commitment to staying at the forefront and delivering value to its partners and customers. PPS will provide the best-in-class customer experience for PTE’s high-volume partners and agents, providing them with a premium level of service tailored to their unique needs, focusing on first-time resolution and delivering quality and efficiency.

    Pearson Test of English (PTE) is gaining and growing fast as the preferred test of English proficiency in the state. Earlier this year, Pearson announced the bookings open for PTE Core, its newest English language proficiency test for Canada Economic Migration. Alongside this, PTE Academic was accepted from August 2023 by IRCC as an approved English proficiency test for all Canada Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa applications – it is already recognized by more than 97 percent of universities and 95 percent of colleges in Canada. The UK, Australian, and New Zealand governments also accept PTE tests for all visa applications. PTE Academic is also accepted by 100 percent of Australian, New Zealand, and Irish Universities and 99 percent of UK universities.

    Gareth Wynn Owen, British Deputy High Commissioner Hyderabad, said “Pearson has been making a difference in education in India for over 30 years. The UK community in India network also does a lot of great work in the field of education. And I, being a huge believer in the power of education, got great pleasure to speak at the Pearson event in Hyderabad.”

    “At Pearson, while we continue to innovate and build new synergies to strengthen the value proposition of PTE for test takers, we also understand that our partners in Telangana have a pivotal role in strengthening the preference and popularity of the test. We are committed to fostering and strengthening our collaboration with our partners to meet the increasing demand of their customers, for PTE across the state.” said, Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning at Pearson India.

     Pearson is dedicated to supporting students and working professionals on their journey to live or study abroad by collaborating with relevant stakeholders. Recently, the company joined forces with University Living (UL), an online global student accommodation marketplace, to facilitate foreign accommodation, financial services, and logistics support for study-abroad aspirants in India. Additionally, Pearson VUE division, opened a state-of-the-art, 90-seater company-owned test centre in Chandigarh. These initiatives have empowered partners to access the necessary capacities for their students, ensuring a seamless experience for both partners and test-takers alike.

    About Pearson  

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com.  

    Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, 

    Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

    Read More / India Education Diary

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  • Pearson Partner Meet addressed by Vicky Kaushal in Chandigarh

    The leading learning company in the world, Pearson, has hosted an exclusive partner meet in Chandigarh and revealed its growth plans for the Pearson Test of English (PTE) in the state. Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal and more than 200 partners attended the event which brought together  key partners, stakeholders, and industry leaders for discussing strategic partnerships. The focus was on the expansion of the partner ecosystem via extraordinary customer service, all-inclusive training programs, and increasing awareness about market opportunities and trends. This assembly intended at a significant stride towards the empowerment of partners for achieving greater success and growth.  

     At the event, Pearson announced the launch of Premium Partner Support (PPS), the new customer support service for select partners in India for PTE to demonstrate its commitment to staying at the forefront and delivering value to its partners and customers. PPS will provide the best-in-class customer experience for PTE’s high-volume partners and agents, providing them with a premium level of service tailored to their unique needs, focusing on first-time resolution and delivering quality and efficiency.   

    Pearson Test of English (PTE) is gaining and growing fast as the preferred test of English proficiency in the state. Earlier this year, Pearson announced the bookings open for PTE Core, its newest English language proficiency test for Canada Economic Migration. Alongside this, PTE Academic was accepted from August 2023 by IRCC as an approved English proficiency test for all Canada Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa applications – it is already recognized by more than 97 percent of universities and 95 percent of colleges in Canada. The UK, Australian, and New Zealand governments also accept PTE tests for all visa applications. PTE Academic is also accepted by 100 percent of Australian, New Zealand, and Irish Universities and 99 percent of UK universities.   

    “At Pearson, while we continue to innovate and build new synergies to strengthen the value proposition of PTE for test takers, we also understand that our partners in Punjab have a pivotal role in strengthening the preference and popularity of the test. We are committed to fostering and strengthening our collaboration with our partners to meet the increasing demand of their customers, for PTE across the state.” said, Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning at Pearson India

     Pearson is dedicated to supporting students and working professionals on their journey to live or study abroad by collaborating with relevant stakeholders. Recently, the company joined forces with University Living (UL), an online global student accommodation marketplace, to facilitate foreign accommodation, financial services, and logistics support for study-abroad aspirants in India. Additionally, Pearson VUE division, opened a state-of-the-art, 90-seater company-owned test centre in Chandigarh. These initiatives have empowered partners to access the necessary capacities for their students, ensuring a seamless experience for both partners and test-takers alike.

    About Pearson  

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com.  

    Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, 

    Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

    Read More / AdGully

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  • Pearson PTE’s successful Partner Meet in Ludhiana; unveils plans for growth

    Ludhiana, 24 April 2024: Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), the world’s leading learning company conducted an exclusive partner meet in Ludhiana and unveiled its growth plans for the Pearson Test of English (PTE) in the state. Attended by 110+ partners, the event, brought together key partners, stakeholders, and industry leaders to discuss strategic collaborations. The focus was on expanding the partner ecosystem through exceptional customer service, comprehensive training programs, and raising awareness about market trends and opportunities. This gathering aimed at a significant stride toward empowering partners to achieve greater growth and success.   

    At the event, Pearson announced the launch of Premium Partner Support (PPS), the new customer support service for select partners in India for PTE to demonstrate its commitment to staying at the forefront and delivering value to its partners and customers. PPS will provide the best-in-class customer experience for PTE’s high-volume partners and agents, providing them with a premium level of service tailored to their unique needs, focusing on first-time resolution and delivering quality and efficiency.    

    Pearson Test of English (PTE) is gaining and growing fast as the preferred test of English proficiency in the state. Earlier this year, Pearson announced the bookings open for PTE Core, its newest English language proficiency test for Canada Economic Migration. Alongside this, PTE Academic was accepted from August 2023 by IRCC as an approved English proficiency test for all Canada Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa applications – it is already recognized by more than 97 percent of universities and 95 percent of colleges in Canada. The UK, Australian, and New Zealand governments also accept PTE tests for all visa applications. PTE Academic is also accepted by 100 percent of Australian, New Zealand, and Irish Universities and 99 percent of UK universities.    

    “At Pearson, while we continue to innovate and build new synergies to strengthen the value proposition of PTE for test takers, we also understand that our partners in Punjab have a pivotal role in strengthening the preference and popularity of the test. We are committed to fostering and strengthening our collaboration with our partners to meet the increasing demand of their customers, for PTE across the state.” said, Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning at Pearson India.  

    Pearson is dedicated to supporting students and working professionals on their journey to live or study abroad by collaborating with relevant stakeholders. Recently, the company joined forces with University Living (UL), an online global student accommodation marketplace, to facilitate foreign accommodation, financial services, and logistics support for study-abroad aspirants in India. Additionally, Pearson VUE division, opened a state-of-the-art, 90-seater company-owned test centre in Chandigarh. These initiatives have empowered partners to access the necessary capacities for their students, ensuring a seamless experience for both partners and test-takers alike.

    About Pearson  

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com.  

    About Pearson Test of English (PTE) 

    PTE is one of the fastest, fairest, and least stressful tests of English for anyone who aspires to study/work abroad or their immigration purposes. It tests the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills of the candidates in a single assessment. It combines the expertise and accuracy of human examiners with the precision, consistency, and objectivity of Artificial Intelligence. The test can be booked online 24 hours in advance, is computer-based, and is taken in a test center. The scores are returned within 1.3 days on average, to assist in the fast-tracking of visa and admission applications.   

     Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, 

    Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

    Read More / Yug Marg

    read more
  • Pearson PTE’s successful Partner Meet in Jalandhar; unveils plans for growth

    Jalandhar, 25 April 2024: Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), the world’s leading learning company conducted an exclusive partner meet in Jalandhar and unveiled its growth plans for the Pearson Test of English (PTE) in the state. Attended by 110+ partners, the event, brought together key partners, stakeholders, and industry leaders to discuss strategic collaborations. The focus was on expanding the partner ecosystem through exceptional customer service, comprehensive training programs, and raising awareness about market trends and opportunities. This gathering aimed at a significant stride toward empowering partners to achieve greater growth and success.   

    At the event, Pearson announced the launch of Premium Partner Support (PPS), the new customer support service for select partners in India for PTE to demonstrate its commitment to staying at the forefront and delivering value to its partners and customers. PPS will provide the best-in-class customer experience for PTE’s high-volume partners and agents, providing them with a premium level of service tailored to their unique needs, focusing on first-time resolution and delivering quality and efficiency.    

    Pearson Test of English (PTE) is gaining and growing fast as the preferred test of English proficiency in the state. Earlier this year, Pearson announced the bookings open for PTE Core, its newest English language proficiency test for Canada Economic Migration. Alongside this, PTE Academic was accepted from August 2023 by IRCC as an approved English proficiency test for all Canada Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa applications – it is already recognized by more than 97 percent of universities and 95 percent of colleges in Canada. The UK, Australian, and New Zealand governments also accept PTE tests for all visa applications. PTE Academic is also accepted by 100 percent of Australian, New Zealand, and Irish Universities and 99 percent of UK universities.    

    “At Pearson, while we continue to innovate and build new synergies to strengthen the value proposition of PTE for test takers, we also understand that our partners in Punjab have a pivotal role in strengthening the preference and popularity of the test. We are committed to fostering and strengthening our collaboration with our partners to meet the increasing demand of their customers, for PTE across the state.” said, Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning at Pearson India. 

    Pearson is dedicated to supporting students and working professionals on their journey to live or study abroad by collaborating with relevant stakeholders. Recently, the company joined forces with University Living (UL), an online global student accommodation marketplace, to facilitate foreign accommodation, financial services, and logistics support for study-abroad aspirants in India. Additionally, Pearson VUE division, opened a state-of-the-art, 90-seater company-owned test centre in Chandigarh. These initiatives have empowered partners to access the necessary capacities for their students, ensuring a seamless experience for both partners and test-takers alike.

    About Pearson  

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com. 

    About Pearson Test of English (PTE) 

    PTE is one of the fastest, fairest, and least stressful tests of English for anyone who aspires to study/work abroad or their immigration purposes. It tests the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills of the candidates in a single assessment. It combines the expertise and accuracy of human examiners with the precision, consistency, and objectivity of Artificial Intelligence. The test can be booked online 24 hours in advance, is computer-based, and is taken in a test center. The scores are returned within 1.3 days on average, to assist in the fast-tracking of visa and admission applications.   

    Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, 

    Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

    Read More / Yug Marg

    read more
  • Pearson PTE’s successful Partner Meet in Amritsar; unveils plans for growth

    Amritsar, 22 April 2024: Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), the world’s leading learning company conducted an exclusive partner meet in Amritsar and unveiled its growth plans for the Pearson Test of English (PTE) in the state. Attended by 130+ partners, the event, brought together key partners, stakeholders, and industry leaders to discuss strategic collaborations. The focus was on expanding the partner ecosystem through exceptional customer service, comprehensive training programs, and raising awareness about market trends and opportunities. This gathering aimed at a significant stride toward empowering partners to achieve greater growth and success.   

    At the event, Pearson announced the launch of Premium Partner Support (PPS), the new customer support service for select partners in India for PTE to demonstrate its commitment to staying at the forefront and delivering value to its partners and customers. PPS will provide the best-in-class customer experience for PTE’s high-volume partners and agents, providing them with a premium level of service tailored to their unique needs, focusing on first-time resolution and delivering quality and efficiency.    

    Pearson Test of English (PTE) is gaining and growing fast as the preferred test of English proficiency in the state. Earlier this year, Pearson announced the bookings open for PTE Core, its newest English language proficiency test for Canada Economic Migration. Alongside this, PTE Academic was accepted from August 2023 by IRCC as an approved English proficiency test for all Canada Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa applications – it is already recognized by more than 97 percent of universities and 95 percent of colleges in Canada. The UK, Australian, and New Zealand governments also accept PTE tests for all visa applications. PTE Academic is also accepted by 100 percent of Australian, New Zealand, and Irish Universities and 99 percent of UK universities.    

    “At Pearson, while we continue to innovate and build new synergies to strengthen the value proposition of PTE for test takers, we also understand that our partners in Punjab have a pivotal role in strengthening the preference and popularity of the test. We are committed to fostering and strengthening our collaboration with our partners to meet the increasing demand of their customers, for PTE across the state.” said, Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning at Pearson India.  

    Pearson is dedicated to supporting students and working professionals on their journey to live or study abroad by collaborating with relevant stakeholders. Recently, the company joined forces with University Living (UL), an online global student accommodation marketplace, to facilitate foreign accommodation, financial services, and logistics support for study-abroad aspirants in India. Additionally, Pearson VUE division, opened a state-of-the-art, 90-seater company-owned test centre in Chandigarh. These initiatives have empowered partners to access the necessary capacities for their students, ensuring a seamless experience for both partners and test-takers alike.

    About Pearson 

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning is not just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com.  

    About Pearson Test of English (PTE) 

    PTE is one of the fastest, fairest, and least stressful tests of English for anyone who aspires to study/work abroad or their immigration purposes. It tests the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills of the candidates in a single assessment. It combines the expertise and accuracy of human examiners with the precision, consistency, and objectivity of Artificial Intelligence. The test can be booked online 24 hours in advance, is computer-based, and is taken in a test center. The scores are returned within 1.3 days on average, to assist in the fast-tracking of visa and admission applications.   

     Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, 

    Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

    Read More / Punjab Express

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  • Our BTEC courses set us apart: Interview of Jane Baker, VP, Business Development, UK and International, Workforce Skills

    We offer BTEC Qualifications in a wide range of subject areas – designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to thrive in a skills-based global economy.

    ‘Our BTEC courses set us apart’

    The Pearson BTEC (Business Technology and Education Council) are a framework of vocational and skill-based courses, offering practical, hands-on training to students across education levels. Jane Baker, vice-president, Business Development, UK & International, Workforce Skills, Pearson, told FE’s Vikram Chaudhary that BTEC Levels 1 and 2 offer learners aged 14-18 the skills they need to prepare for a career or further education, and Level 3 are career-focused qualifications that provide students aged 16-plus with the industry skills they need to progress to employment. Excerpts:

     

    What kind of vocational qualifications do you offer in India?

    We offer a wide range, including BTEC (Business Technology and Education Council) – designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to thrive in a skills-based economy. Developed in collaboration with industry, universities and professional bodies, BTECs emphasis on practical, hands-on learning, tailored to industry needs across sectors such as business, engineering, IT, AI, health & social care, travel & tourism, hospitality, and robotics.

    BTEC qualifications provide students a pathway to international universities. BTEC Higher Nationals (HN) are considered equivalent to the first two years of a three-year undergraduate honours’ degree in the UK. We have seen that 90% of BTEC students are likely to be employed after graduating. One of the key strengths of BTECs is their seamless integration of vocational education with academic curriculum, offering flexible learning pathways for upskilling and reskilling, providing learners with diverse career options. Over 6 million BTEC qualifications have been awarded in the last decade.

    Are BTECs similar to MOOCs? How do these align with the National Education Policy 2020 goals of mainstreaming vocational education and skilling?

    BTECs prioritise practical, applied skills over rote memorisation, which matches the NEP’s focus on hands-on learning.

    Secondly, by offering BTECs, educational institutions in India can provide students with skills that are widely accepted by employers both domestically and internationally. This contributes to the NEP’s goal of enhancing the recognition of vocational qualifications, promoting their mainstream acceptance.

    Thirdly, BTECs are designed to meet industry needs, ensuring students learn relevant skills. This ties in with the NEP’s goal of improving the quality of vocational education.

    What kind of steps do you take to ensure your vocational and academic qualifications meet industry standards?

    We’ve established industry advisory boards composed of professionals from relevant sectors. They offer insights into emerging trends, skill requirements, and technological advancements within specific industries, advising us on updating curriculum accordingly.

    We also engage with employers, corporate L&D leaders (such as from Amazon Web Services, BMW Group, Schneider Electric, etc), industry associations, and governmental bodies.

    Further, we conduct regular research on labour market trends, skill shortages, and technology, leading to reports like the Pearson Skills Outlook Report, offering insights into emerging workforce demands and skill requirements.

    What kind of partnerships do you have in India?

    We’ve partnered with Buddha Group of Institutions, Solitaire Business Schools and Jetking Infotrain to introduce Pearson’s BTEC HN courses in areas such as art & design, business management, IT, cloud computing, digital marketing and cybersecurity to provide students industry-aligned skill development opportunities, and equip them with the expertise needed to excel in the globalised workplace.

    We also collaborated with the National Skill Development Corporation International (NSDCI) to promote globally-recognised BTEC qualifications at their 11,000 training centres and 13,000 academic institutions across India.

    Globally, we offer over 2,000 qualifications across 15 sectors, catering to emerging fields such as AI, semiconductor engineering, electric vehicles, robotics, health, and social care.

    What, according to you, is the future of international collaboration and transnational education?

    We envision a promising future for international collaboration and transnational education in India, focusing on three key areas.

    Firstly, there’s an anticipation of an expanded mutual recognition of qualifications (MRQs) framework, encompassing more countries and fields. This expansion will facilitate smoother mobility for Indian students and professionals, enhancing skill development and global employability.

    Secondly, we foresee the growth of transnational education programmes, including joint degrees, dual degrees, and online/blended learning options. These will offer students opportunities to learn from international faculty, acquire industry-relevant skills, and compete more effectively in the global job market.

    About Pearson

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

    Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

    Read More / The Financial Express

    BTEC Qualifications

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  • There is a critical need for upskilling initiatives in India, says Pearson executive

    In an interview with ET’s Sreeradha Basu, Jane Baker, vice-president, Workforce Skills at learning company Pearson said India stands out as a leader in the global upskilling market due to its sheer volume of learners seeking to enhance their skills and through the active support of government initiatives like Skill India.

    Professionals worldwide are upskilling at a rapid pace, and India is at the forefront of this movement, fuelled by its young and ambitious population, said Jane Baker, vice-president, Workforce Skills at learning company Pearson. In an interview to ET’s Sreeradha Basu, she said India stands out as a leader in the global upskilling market due to its sheer volume of learners seeking to enhance their skills and through the active support of government initiatives like Skill India. Edited excerpts:

    What is the kind of uptick you have seen in professionals wanting to upskill themselves? How do you compare India -- with its huge young demographic – with other countries in this respect?

    We recognise the global skills challenges, as reported by the World Economic Forum, impacting various countries, including India. This trend is attributed in part to factors like the pandemic and advancements in digitisation. As per the second edition of our Pearson Skills Outlook Report, around four in five Indian workers are interested in short courses or language programmes, and certifications from professional organisations (34%) and from platforms (34%) are the top two types of education they need to advance their careers.

    However, there is a growing concern: the reported disconnect between traditional education and the current job market demands. Many employers report a mismatch between graduates and qualifications and the specific skills needed in their workplaces. This highlights the critical need for upskilling initiatives in India.

    We have collaborated with industry, academia and governments to identify skill gaps and design globally recognised curricula and qualifications. This approach is also being implemented in India. In the same Pearson Skills Outlook Report, technical skills like data science, cloud computing, AI and cybersecurity are demanded widely in India, alongside soft skills like communication and critical thinking.

    What are your growth plans in India? How do you see yourself scaling up in this market?

    In India, we are looking at expanding our presence and impact in three key areas – higher education, workforce skills and English language learning. Our workforce skills business focuses on collaborating with government institutions, educational institutions and corporations.

    We are actively participating in the skilling initiatives, offering skill development courses in emerging sectors, language proficiency programmes, and communication skills training and supporting the goals of the NEP (National Education Policy) 2020, which emphasises affordable, equitable and universal access to quality education.

    Globally, we are actively engaged with employers, corporate L&D (learning and development) leaders (such as Amazon Web Services, BMW Group and Schneider Electric) and industry associations. These collaborations enable us to understand evolving sector needs and tailor qualifications, accordingly, seeking feedback on existing programmes and identifying emerging skill gaps.

    Do you plan to launch more programmes in India? Which are the most popular among the existing ones?

    We continuously assess emerging trends and skill demands to shape our programmes globally, including in India. Our approach involves collaborating with industry advisory boards, comprised of experts, to refine curriculum and qualifications. In India, our focus sectors include digitech, healthcare and e-vehicles, aligning with the evolving skill needs.

    Popular programmes in India encompass artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and machine learning (ML), reflecting the growing interest in upskilling and reskilling. Globally, trends indicate a surge in demand for programmes in technology such as AI/ML, robotics, data analytics and semiconductor manufacturing, Emerging industries like e-sports event management, finance and e-vehicle engineering, growing sectors such as green technology and healthcare.

    We plan to expand Pearson BTEC (Business and Technology Education Council) programmes, analyse course preferences and forge new partnerships nationwide. Additionally, we aim to create accessible learning solutions, including digital credentialing tools and workforce analysis for employers.

    About Pearson

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

    Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

    Read More / The Economic Times

    BTEC Qualifications

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