There is now a list of institutions where Pearson’s new English Express Test is accepted. It’s a small list, but I guess you’ve got to start somewhere.

In recognition of the time required to bring a new test to a decent level of acceptance, I’ve written about the possibility of growth through acquisition.

Pearson held a webinar about the new “Pearson English Express Test” for institutions a few weeks ago, and revealed a few more details. A few details are worth repeating here. Just note that the test hasn’t launched yet, and stuff could change.

So here goes:

1. The price will be $70 in every market.
2. A second camera will be required.
3. Scoring is by AI, but includes “verification” related to security and review of possible flags.
4. Pearson is promising a generous retake policy in cases of security issues, unless blatant malfeasance is detected.
5. Initial (unofficial) scores will be reported within minutes of the test being completed. Confirmed scores will be available within 48 hours.
6. Score reports can be sent to an unlimited number of institutions at no cost.
7. The test will launch in a bunch of European and Latin American markets and Japan on October 25. It will launch worldwide in 2026.
8. Some institutions have confirmed their acceptance of the test.

Number five is interesting, as that’s something that will set Pearson’s product apart from the Duolingo English Test.

As regular readers know, at launch this test will only be used for admissions to American institutions. Accordingly, its main competitors will be the Duolingo English Test and the TOEFL Test. With a second test entering the “super low cost” category that Duolingo has had all to itself for quite a few years, I’m optimistic that we might see a price freeze for at least a little while. I’m also optimistic that the TOEFL team, facing the prospect of a second low-cost competitor in its own backyard just as it relaunches its flagship test, might be inspired to get a little more competitive (and creative) when it comes to pricing.