PTE Score for Canada 2024: Accepted Colleges and Universities

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PTE, like IELTS and TOEFL, tests students for their Listening, Speaking, Writing and Reading skills. Test-takers receive a score between 10-90, with 90 being the highest and equivalent to the IELTS band 9.0. 

The minimum PTE score for Canada depends on various factors, including the course type and the advanced level. Typically, courses with complex information, such as Literature, Engineering, and Medicine, require a high English proficiency and, in turn, a high PTE score. 

Courses such as Psychology and Law also demand good English language skills because these courses lead to professions that require plenty of human interaction. 

In this blog, we’ll discover the minimum PTE requirement to study in Canada and a list of universities that accept the test.

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How much PTE Score is required for Canada in 2023?

The minimum PTE score for Canada is between 58-73. Below is the score requirement for various levels of degree.

Level of studyIELTS Score Requirement
Diploma45 Overall (Min. 36 in each module)
Undergraduate50 Overall (Min 45 in each module)
Post-graduate65 Overall (Min 50 in each module)

If your score is in the range of 85-90, you can call yourself a pro at English. With such a score, it’s possible to land any course, considering you’ve met other requirements set by the university. However, no university or government demands a score in this range.

A score in the range of 76-84 is still exceptional and indicates that you’re a natural at English. With this score range, you can attend advanced-level courses and top-ranked universities. Usually, undergraduate courses don’t ask for a score this high. This score is equivalent to bands 7-8 in IELTS. 

If your PTE score for Canada is in the range of 59-75, you’ll be able to apply to the majority of the universities in Canada, as well as most undergraduate and postgraduate courses. 

A score less than 55-58 might make it difficult for you to get admission. 

PTE ScoreAvailability of Universities based on Ranking
70-79Majority of universities, with most ranking in the top 50-100
60-69Mid to High ranked universities, typically ranking in the top 80-200
50-59A selective number of universities, mostly ranking within the top 300-800+
40-49A limited number of universities, typically ranking above 400

Also read: PTE score for UK

PTE score for Canada
Over 90% universities accept PTE score for Canada.

List of Universities with Minimum PTE Score for Canada

Name of University Minimum PTE score for Canada
St. Thomas University50
University of Ottawa52-55
Brock University55
University Canada West58
Nipissing University58
Western University58
University of Calgary59
Mcmaster University60
York University60-65
University of Waterloo60-68
McGill University65
Dalhousie University61-65
Simon Fraser University61-65
University of Alberta61 – 68
University of British Columbia65- 72

While these are the average requirements, we recommend checking with the university as these requirements are updated regularly.

Talk to our counselors for a full list of universities and minimum PTE scores for Canada. Our experts can help you find the best university and course for your score range.

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PTE Score for Canada 2024: Accepted Colleges and Universities

Didn’t get your Ideal PTE Score for Canada? Here’s the fix!

First off, PTE and other English proficiency tests can be highly challenging, so give yourself a pat on the back for attempting it in the first place. 

If your score is different from what you had in mind, don’t worry. Here are some ways to inch closer to your dream PTE score for Canada. 

  1. Retake PTE: The most obvious choice is retaking the exam. The good news is PTE can be taken as often as you’d like but with a gap of 5 days. So, take a moment, analyse what went wrong, work on those areas and try again tomorrow. 
  1. Consider alternate universities: Another option is to explore universities that accept your current PTE score or to research alternative courses that provide similar or greater value in the subject you are interested in. 

If you need help looking for a university that accepts your score, talk to our experts and get a list in minutes. 

  1. Consider alternate English proficiency tests: Though Canada happily accepts PTE, many universities prefer IELTS. IELTS is internationally recognised and has plenty more learning resources available online. Further, IELTS is accepted widely for PR and employment purposes in Canada. 

The reason why you didn’t do well in the first go could be because the exam isn’t right for you. Research enough about other English tests and settle on one that fits you well. 

At Leap, We help students choose the proper English language test; if IELTS is your test of choice, we’ll help you ace it! Talk to us today. 

How to get a good PTE Score for Canada?

It all comes down to this: How to get a good score? The answer is simple: Prepare. 

The best way to prep for your PTE exam depends on your learning abilities and the areas you lack. Before you start, perform a simple SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis on your language skills. Dedicate extra time to improve on your weaknesses and enough time to perfect your strengths. 

Here’s what else you can do: 

  • Take plenty of mock tests! Pay enough time to familiarise yourself with the test pattern. 
  • Practice with a timer to understand how fast you need to work out the answers. 
  • Listen to podcasts, and note down your observations. This will help you polish your listening skills. 
  • There’s no better place to start reading than books and newspapers. Try to be attentive and note new words while you’re at it. 
  • Reading also greatly impacts the way you write. To improve your writing skills, practising is the only way. Find new prompts, and dedicate some minutes just to practice writing every day. 
  • To develop speaking skills, Practice speaking in English as much as possible, even if it’s just to yourself. Record yourself speaking and listen to it to identify areas where you need improvement.

Minimum PTE Score for Canada Student Visa

The minimum PTE score for a Canada student visa largely relies on the university you’re applying to. The Canadian government will allow you a student visa if you have a valid admission offer from the university. 

Regarding permanent residency, Canada does not accept PTE scores yet. However, the country has recently announced that by the end of 2023, it will start accepting PTE scores for PR. 

PTE score for Canada
Good news: PTE score for Canada will be accepted for PR by the end of 2023!

If you wish to begin your IELTS journey, talk to our experts and get started. Our IELTS courses have mock tests, live classes and a discussion forum to clarify all your queries and are taught by the best IELTS coaches in India. Book a free demo today. Until then, you can take IELTS to apply for a PR in Canada. 

Final Thoughts

PTE is currently priced at ₹15,900 in India. Unlike other English proficiency tests, PTE is completely graded by AI, which reduces the possibility of grading errors. Another reason why students prefer PTE is that PTE exam results are available within just 48 hours of taking the test. 

Overall, PTE is a great choice.

Are you planning to apply to universities in Canada? Talk to our experts and learn all about studying in Canada. Right from universities to scholarships, we’ll guide you through it all. 

Book a free call now.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q. Is PTE accepted in Canada?

    Yes, PTE Academic is accepted for all study routes – including for the popular Student Direct Stream (SDS) route in Canada. The exam is recognized by most of the Canadian Designated Learning Institutes. PTE is the faster, simpler way of getting your letter of Acceptance.

  • Q. What is PTE Academic?

    PTE Academic is a computer-based English language proficiency exam designed to assess the English language skills of non-native speakers. The test evaluates a candidate’s ability to use English in an academic setting, with four sections: Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening.

  • Q. What is the duration of the PTE Academic exam?

    The entire test is 2 hours long, and it is designed to be completed in one sitting.

  • Q. Does Canada accept PTE?

    Yes, absolutely. Over 90% of Canadian universities accept PTE scores.

  • Q. Can I retake the PTE Academic exam?

    Test takers can retake the PTE Academic as often as they wish. However, there must be a gap of at least 5 calendar days between two attempts.

  • Q. What’s the minimum PTE score for Canada?

    The minimum PTE score for Canada ranges from 58-73 depending on the university, course and level of study.

  • Q. What is the PTE visa success rate in Canada?

    The Canadian government will 100% accept your PTE score if your university has offered you admission on the basis of it. Although, you must remember student visa isn’t given just on the basis of English proficiency tests.

  • Q. Is PTE accepted in Canada for PR?

    Canada recently announced that it would be accepting PTE scores for PR visas. However, it’s not yet implemented. The country is set to start accepting PTE scores for PR by the end of 2023.

  • Q. How many bands are required for Canada after 12th Grade?

    For graduation after your 12th grade, international students need a minimum overall score of 6.0. The minimum score for individual modules needs to be 5.5.

  • Q. How much is the IELTS score required for Canada for Masters’?

    The IELTS score required for a Master’s in Canada is 6.0 overall and 5.5 in individual modules. The minimum score can vary, so it’s best to check the official websites of the universities to understand the minimum score.

  • Q. Is PTE 50 score accepted by universities in Canada for Masters’?

    Scoring a 50 on your PTE exam will make you eligible for most of the post-graduate courses in some of the best universities in Canada.

  • Q. Does Canada accept PTE for the student visa?

    Starting August 10, Canada will accept the PTE Academic for all SDS applications. This approval by IRCC accepts PTE Core as proof of English language proficiency for Canadian permanent residency, student visa or citizenship


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Saket Kohli

An International Higher Ed professional with 7+ years of experience studying, working, and living across three geographies, currently on a mission to share his journey as an International Student.

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