Pearson VUE / learndirect's computer-based testing merger inquiry

The CMA investigated the anticipated acquisition by Pearson Professional Assessments Limited of learndirect Limited’s computer-based testing business.

• From: Competition and Markets Authority
• Published: 7 October 2015
• Last updated: 7 January 2016 — See all updates

• Case type: Mergers
• Case state: Closed
• Market sector: Distribution and service industries
• Outcome: Mergers - phase 2 cancellation
• Opened: 7 October 2015
• Closed: 6 January 2016

Phase 2

Phase 2 date	Action
6 January 2016	Merger reference cancelled
16 December 2015	Merger reference made

Contact

general.enquiries@cma.gov.uk

Merger reference cancelled

• Cancellation of merger reference (6.1.16)
• News story: Pearson VUE/learndirect’s CBT business merger inquiry cancelled (6.1.16)

Terms of reference

16 December 2015: The CMA has referred the anticipated acquisition by Pearson VUE of learndirect’s computer-based testing business for an in-depth phase 2 investigation.

• Terms of reference (16.12.15)

Phase 1

Phase 1 date	Action
7 January 2016	Decision published
2 December 2015	Decision announced
7 October to 20 October 2015	Invitation to comment
7 October 2015	Launch of merger inquiry

Reference decision

• News story: CMA refers computer-based testing merger for in-depth investigation (16.12.15)
• Reference decision (7.1.16)

Reference unless undertakings accepted

The full text of the decision is available below.

• Press release: Computer-based testing merger could lessen competition (2.12.15)
• Full text decision (7.1.16)

Launch of CMA merger inquiry

7 October 2015: The CMA announced the launch of its merger inquiry by notice to the parties.

• Commencement of initial period notice (7.10.15)

Published 7 October 2015
Last updated 7 January 2016 + show all updates

1. 7 January 2016

   Decisions published.

2. 7 October 2015

   First published.