- Milestones
Kathmandu, 18 February 2025: Pearson, the world’s lifelong learning company, proudly announces the opening of a new Pearson VUE Test Center Select (PVTC Select) in Chitwan, Nepal. The center’s strategic location will increase access to the Pearson Test of English (PTE) in Nepal, a key region for aspiring students seeking international education opportunities.
Independently owned and operated in more than 100 countries, PVTC Selects boasts enhanced identity verification and surveillance technology, providing an unparalleled level of security and integrity for test-takers sitting for the PTE.
The new 10-seat testing site in Chitwan, owned and operated by ACE Testing Hub, offers a flexible and reliable testing experience to support individuals in achieving their study or work abroad aspirations.
Nepal has a significant number of individuals seeking opportunities to study abroad with 19% of its tertiary-level students studying abroad in 2021.
In the fiscal year 2023/24, over 112,000 Nepali students obtained No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to pursue education in 66 different countries, including top destinations such as Japan, Canada, Australia, the UK, and the USA. Additionally, approximately 494,000 Nepali citizens migrated abroad for employment in 2023, reflecting a significant rise in international opportunities.
Commenting on the center opening, Prabhul Ravindran, Regional Director, South Asia, English Language Learning, Pearson, said, "Building upon our strong base in Nepal, the new Pearson VUE Test Center Select in Chitwan represents our unwavering commitment to enhancing connectivity and support for test-takers in the region. This expansion aligns with our mission to provide accessible and reliable testing services to meet the growing needs of the Nepali community."
In Nepal, Pearson's vision is to become a leading English assessment provider, further strengthening its presence and impact in the region.
"We are proud to extend our world-class test centers to offer a convenient and secure PTE testing experience to the people of Nepal. It is our continued goal to reach more aspiring candidates, supporting their academic and professional success,” said Dr Gary Gates, Managing Director, Pearson VUE.
The Pearson Test of English is a trusted and secure English language proficiency test, opening doors for individuals seeking to study, work, or migrate. It is accepted by over 3,500 global universities and by the governments of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK for all types of visas. PTE is also recognized by leading professional organizations in fields such as nursing, accounting, and engineering. Additionally, test-takers can use their PTE results to apply for prestigious scholarships, including the Australian government’s Australia Awards, New Zealand’s Secondary School Scholarships (NZSS), the UK’s Chevening Scholarships, and Fulbright Scholarships in the US.
With more than 475 secure test centers worldwide, PTE delivers fast results, typically available within 48 hours. Combining advanced AI assessment technology with a team of experienced experts, PTE ensures a fair and transparent testing experience. Last year, over one million test-takers trusted PTE to demonstrate their English proficiency and pursue higher education or international work opportunities.
Learn more at pearsonpte.com.
About Pearson
At Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), our purpose is simple: to help people realize the life they imagine through learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That's why our 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world's leading lifelong 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 pearsonplc.com.
About Pearson VUE
Pearson VUE has been a pioneer in the computer-based testing industry for decades, delivering close to 21 million certification and licensure exams annually in every industry from academia and admissions to IT and healthcare. We are the global leader in developing and delivering high-stakes exams via the world's most comprehensive network of nearly 20,000 highly secure test centers as well as online testing across more than 180 countries. Our leadership in the assessment industry is a result of our collaborative partnerships with a broad range of clients, from leading technology firms to government and regulatory agencies. For more information, please visit PearsonVUE.com.
Media contact
Bhavya Suri
bhavya.suri@pearson.com