Planning to study or immigrate to Canada? The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is now widely accepted for both student visas and permanent residency (PR). A major advantage of choosing PTE is its speed: results are typically delivered within 48 hours, or two business days, which is a significant help when you’re on a tight application timeline. Choosing the right version of the PTE is crucial: you must take PTE Academic for university admission and PTE Core for immigration/PR.
This comprehensive guide, created specifically for Indian students and applicants, provides the latest official PTE score for Canada requirements in 2025, including:
80+ Practice Questions for all sections- Instant AI Scoring
- Detailed Score Improvement Report
- Recorded Video Lessons
80+ Practice Questions for all sections- The critical difference between PTE Academic and PTE Core.
- Official PTE Core to Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) conversion tables for Express Entry.
- Minimum PTE Academic scores for top Canadian universities and student visas.
PTE Academic vs PTE Core: Which Test Do You Need for Canada?
To avoid application delays, the first step is understanding which PTE test version you need to achieve your target PTE score for Canada. Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accepts two different tests for different purposes.
| Feature | PTE Academic | PTE Core (Mandatory for PR) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Study Visas (including SDS), University/College Admission | Permanent Residency (PR), Work Permits, Economic Immigration |
| Focus | Academic English | General/Everyday English |
| Acceptance Status | Accepted for Study | Accepted by IRCC since January 2024 |
| Result Speed | Typically, within two business days | Typically, within two business days |
| Format | Fully computer-based, AI-scored | Fully computer-based, AI-scored |
Key Note for Indian Applicants: If your goal is university admission and a student visa, the PTE score for Canada you need will come from the PTE Academic test. If your goal is Permanent Residency (PR), the required PTE score for Canada comes from the dedicated PTE Core test.
PTE Core Score for Canada PR: Updated Requirements
For Permanent Residency through programs like Express Entry, your PTE score for Canada is mapped to the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB). The CLB level determines the CRS points you receive for language ability.
CLB Levels Explained: How Your PTE Score Converts for Canada Immigration
The minimum benchmark for most Express Entry categories is CLB 7 in all four abilities. However, for a competitive application, simply meeting this minimum pte score for Canada is often not enough. To maximise your CRS points, you should aim for CLB 9 or higher.
Official PTE Core to CLB Conversion for Canada PR
This table shows the minimum PTE Core score required for each Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level, as officially standardised by Pearson and accepted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for economic immigration pathways. Understanding this conversion is crucial for anyone targeting a specific PTE score for Canadian permanent residency.
| CLB Level (IRCC Benchmark) | PTE Core Listening Score | PTE Core Reading Score | PTE Core Speaking Score | PTE Core Writing Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 89–90 | 88–90 | 89–90 | 90 |
| 9 (Strategic Target) | 82–88 | 78–87 | 84–88 | 88–89 |
| 8 | 71–81 | 69–77 | 76–83 | 79–87 |
| 7 (Express Entry Minimum) | 60–70 | 60–68 | 68–75 | 69–78 |
| 6 | 50–59 | 51–59 | 59–67 | 60–68 |
| 5 | 39–49 | 42–50 | 51–58 | 51–59 |
Note: The minimum language requirement to qualify for most Express Entry categories is CLB 7 in all four abilities. Achieving a competitive pte score for Canada PR often means aiming for CLB 9 to maximise your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points. Always check the specific PTE score for Canada immigration requirements for your chosen pathway.
Minimum PTE Academic Score for Canada Student Visa
If you are pursuing an education, the PTE Academic score is the standard requirement. The necessary PTE score for Canada student visa applications varies substantially based on your academic level.
Program-Wise PTE Score for Canada for UG, PG and Specialised Courses
| Program Level | PTE Academic Score Requirement | Minimum Score for Student Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (After 12th) | 50−60 | Generally 45+ overall |
| Postgraduate (Master’s) | 60−70 | Generally 60+ overall |
| Advanced/Specialised Programs | 65−70+ | Varies by program |
PTE Score Requirements for Top Canadian Universities
Many prestigious Canadian universities accept the PTE Academic. However, a higher PTE score for Canada will significantly boost your chances of admission to competitive programs.
| University | PTE Score Requirement | Minimum Sectional Score |
|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | 65 | 60 in all modules (Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing) |
| University of British Columbia | 65 | 60 in all modules |
| McGill University | 65 | 60 in all modules |
| University of Alberta | 68 | 60 in all modules |
| University of Waterloo | 63 | 59 in all modules |
| McMaster University | 60 | 55 in all modules |
| University of Calgary | 60 | 55 in all modules |
| Western University | 56 | 54 in all modules |
| Queen’s University | 60 | 55 in all modules |
| Simon Fraser University | 65 | 60 in all modules |
Note: While some institutions may accept a 50 PTE score for Canada for specific programs, it is essential to check the official program page for the most accurate requirements.
PTE Score for Canada vs IELTS Bands: Updated Comparison
The choice between PTE Academic and IELTS depends on your preference for the test format. To help you compare your goal PTE score for Canada against the IELTS equivalent, here is the score conversion:
| PTE Academic Score | IELTS Band Score Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 85−90 | 8.5−9.0 |
| 76−84 | 7.0−8.0 |
| 66−75 | 6.5 |
| 56−65 | 6.0 |
| 47−55 | 5.5 |
| 36−46 | 5.0 |
How to Prepare for Your Target PTE Score for Canada?
Satisfying the PTE score for Canada requirements demands a strategic, well-planned approach. Here’s a step-by-step plan to help you get your desired PTE score for Canada:
- Know Your Score Requirements: Confirm the minimum overall and section-specific PTE score for Canada needed by your preferred university.
- Evaluate Your Current Level: Take a full mock test to identify your current strengths and weaknesses.
- Adhere to a Systematic Study Plan: Focus on fluency, practice integrated skills, and practice regularly using official PTE materials to meet the targeted PTE score for Canada.
- Master Time Management: The PTE Academic exam lasts about 2 hours. Allocate your time effectively.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Don’t neglect instructions or your pronunciation.
Conclusion
The PTE, whether it’s the Academic or Core version, has become a widely accepted instrument for achieving your goals in Canada. The key to success is identifying the correct test version and setting a strategic PTE score for Canada target (e.g., aiming for CLB 9 for PR or a 65+ for top universities). Regular preparation will ensure you achieve the pte score for Canada you need.
Ready to start your PTE preparation? Connect with LeapScholar today to develop a personalised study plan and apply to your dream university!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How much PTE score is required for a Canada student visa?
The general PTE Academic score required for a Canada student visa is between 50 and 70 overall. Undergraduate courses typically require 50−60, while competitive Master’s programs usually require 60−70. The exact requirement for the PTE score for Canada depends on your chosen course and university.
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Is PTE Core accepted for Express Entry in 2025?
Yes, the PTE Core test is officially accepted by IRCC for all Canadian immigration and permanent residency pathways. If your goal is PR, the required PTE score for Canada must come from the PTE Core test.
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What is the minimum PTE score for Canada immigration (PR)?
The minimum PTE score for Canada PR via Express Entry depends on achieving a CLB 7 in all four abilities. This requires scores roughly between 60 and 78. Achieving a higher PTE score for Canada is recommended to maximise your CRS points.
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Which universities accept a 50 PTE score in Canada?
Some Canadian universities, such as St. Thomas University and the University of Manitoba, accept a 50 PTE Academic score for certain programs. However, admission requirements are program-specific, and many top-ranked universities require a higher PTE score for Canada.
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How long does it take to get PTE Core results?
Results for the PTE Core test are typically available very quickly, usually within two business days after the examination, which is a major advantage for applicants.
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What is the minimum PTE score for the UK?
Most UK universities require 50–55 for foundation/pathway courses and 58–65 for direct UG/PG entry. Requirements vary by university and programme.
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How much is 6 each in PTE?
IELTS 6.0 is roughly equal to a 56–65 score in PTE Academic. Many universities expect around 60 overall for programmes needing IELTS 6.0.
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Is 5.5 band eligible for UK visa?
For the UK Student Route, degree-level courses require CEFR B2, which corresponds to higher PTE scores (usually around 59+, depending on institution).
Some below-degree courses accept CEFR B1, closer to IELTS 5.5, but universities often set higher academic requirements. -
Is 50 a good score in PTE?
A PTE 50 works for foundation or diploma programmes, but it is not enough for most UG/PG degrees. Competitive courses usually need 58–65+.
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