When SLE Results Expire and How to Renew Them

Like any certification, Canada’s second language evaluation (SLE) results must be maintained and renewed periodically.

This post will break down:

• The exception to mandatory SLE retests
• Transferring SLE results between jobs
• How to renew SLE test results
• How to Exempt “E” from future tests

Expiring SLE Levels

SLE test results are generally valid for five years. However, the expiry of SLE results does not automatically mean an individual must be retested.

In many cases, SLE results remain valid indefinitely as long as the employee continues in the same position within the same department or agency. To learn more about SLE validity periods and renewal requirements, check out our latest guide.

Employees are only required to retake an SLE evaluation if the language requirements of their position increase. If their existing SLE results already meet the updated language profile, no retesting is necessary.

Are SLE Results Valid with other departments?

SLE results earned through the Public Service Commission’s online testing center or with a PSC assessor are transferable between federal Canadian agencies and crown corporations.

To be transferable, test results must have been issued in the past 5 years. Those who’ve earned exemptions on SLE tests (“E” results) can use those results interchangeably.

Results from a private provider

A number of third-party providers, including LRDG, are now administering SLE oral tests and issuing official results for government departments. Crown corporations can use these third-party services to administer all three SLE tests (reading, writing, and oral) and issue results.

Results issued from a third-party provider do not follow the same validity rules as those earned when taken directly with the PSC.

For example, if SLE levels were awarded from a third-party provider using an alternative or old test format, the assessment results can only be reused for new appointments within the same department or agency.

It is important to consult an agency’s HR manager to confirm if test results are valid and portable.

Renewing SLE Results

Whether you are a current government employee or a job seeker, SLE tests and retests are arranged and scheduled through an agency’s human resources department.

SLE Retesting Period

After completing an SLE test, candidates must wait 30 days before retaking the same evaluation. Any test taken during this waiting period will be deemed invalid, and the 30-day waiting period will restart from the date of the invalid test.

It’s important to note that your most recent SLE results become your official language profile, replacing any previous results. For example, if you currently hold a CBC profile and receive a BBB on a subsequent evaluation, your language profile will be updated to BBB. Learn more about how to achieve a CBC profile and how to access your SLE test results online.

Exempt from Retaking SLE Tests

Individuals taking the SLE oral test and supervised reading and writing tests can receive an “E” status that exempts them indefinitely from retaking the SLE. “E” scores are awarded to those whose SLE test performance indicates they can be expected to maintain their second language proficiency at Level C indefinitely.

Specific grades depend on the type of evaluation, candidates can qualify for an exemption if they receive a high Level C (about 98% or higher).

“E” scores only exempt a worker from a specific test. For example, someone with an EBC learner profile is exempt from retaking the reading test. An EEE learner profile would mean a worker is exempt from retaking all three SLE evaluations.

“E” scores are only attainable through supervised PSC tests. Results from unsupervised tests and tests through third-party providers do not qualify for exemptions.

Tips For Retaking SLE

If you are beginning to re-qualify your language profile or are pursuing higher levels to remain compliant in your position, here are some tips you should consider.

Know Your Target Level

This is simple. Be aware of what linguistic profile and SLE test levels you need to earn. Have profile requirements changed? Are they higher?

Whether you are rusty or need to completely upskill your language proficiency, studying and investing energy and time into learning will increase your likelihood of securing the profile you need.

Find LRDG’s Ultimate Guide to SLE Test Prep here. Whether you’re preparing for the Public Service test or looking to succeed in a bilingual government role, LRDG’s French language training programs give you the tools, skills, and confidence to achieve your goals.

Immerse Yourself in your Second Language

Leading up to an official evaluation, intentionally surrounding yourself with your second language can help reinforce language concepts, re-establish vocabulary, and improve listening skills and speaking flow.

Take Practice Tests & Simulations

Refreshing yourself on test formats and expectations will help make sure your true language proficiency accurately translates into your test score. See LRDG’s second language evaluation guide for more information.

Find A SLE Expert Tutor

If you are serious about achieving your second language evaluation goals, finding high-quality language lessons and tutors is necessary. Find out more about our SLE expert tutors and team here.

LRDG’s blended methodology and online learning platform provides serious learners with the flexibility, professionalism, and expertise they need to achieve their desired results.

Need SLE testing support?

Book a call today to learn how our second language testing services can help.

Frequently Asked Questions – SLE Edition (FAQ)

Why do SLE test results expire?

The Second Language Evaluation (SLE) test results expire as a way to ensure Canada maintains a strong bilingual public service sector. Language proficiency can fluctuate over time depending on usage and practice, so a test taken several years ago might not reflect one’s current language skills.

When do I have to re-take second language evaluations?

SLE test results remain valid for five years as per the Public Service Commission of Canada. However, they remain valid indefinitely as long as an individual stays in the same role. If an employee changes roles or the language requirements for a position increase, they may be required to retest to ensure their language proficiency meets the new standards. To learn more about SLE validity periods and renewal requirements, check out our latest guide.

How can I get exempt from second language evaluations?

E scores are granted to those whose SLE test performance indicates they can be expected to maintain their second language proficiency at Level C indefinitely.

What is the retest period for SLE?

Candidates must wait 30 days before retaking the same SLE test. Any test taken within this waiting period will be deemed invalid, and the 30-day waiting period will restart from the date of the invalid test. To receive a valid result, candidates must wait the full 30 calendar days before attempting the evaluation again.

How long are SLE test results valid for?

SLE test results are generally valid for five years from the date of the evaluation. Once this period expires, employees may need to retake the test if they are applying for a new position with language requirements.

Candidates may also choose to retest before their results expire if they wish to improve their language profile. For example, an employee with a BBB profile may decide to retake the evaluation to achieve a CBC profile and qualify for advancement opportunities. Book a call with our team of experts to learn more about our language training programs.