In 2018, TESL Ontario received four-year project funding from Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development (MLTSD) for the development of a new Competency and Credit Based PLAR process. TESL Ontario is pleased to announce that the project is now complete and the new Competency-and-Credit Based Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition service will be launched as of January 1, 2022. The current portfolio-based PLAR service will be discontinued as of the same date.
To be eligible for the new PLAR service, candidates must have the following:
- Minimum 3-year university degree
- Proof of English language proficiency
- CLB Bootcamp certificate
- PBLA training certificate
- Either a TESL-related diploma or degree, or 2,000 hours of ESL or EFL experience
Candidates apply for PLAR under one of two streams, each with its own eligibility and competency requirements. Candidates select the stream that best reflects their TESL-related education and experience.
The new PLAR process assesses both the competencies and the credentials of eligible candidates. It identifies training gaps that exist between the applicant’s previous TESL training and adult ESL/EFL teaching experience and TESL Ontario’s required training and practicum. Candidates have options for meeting competency requirements. Depending on the competency area, requirements can be met through a practicum, experience, a structured interview (challenge option), or course completion.
For more information about the application process and requirements of the TESL Ontario new PLAR service, please go to
- Competency-and-Credit Based PLAR Candidate Handbook (draft)
- TESL Ontario Competency Framework for Adult ESL Teachers
- Competency Framework Information Session for Adult ESL Teachers
If you have any questions, please contact TESL Ontario at accreditation@teslontario.org