How much PTE score do I need for a Canada study visa and does it vary by province?
For a Canada study visa you need a minimum overall PTE Academic score of 58 with no section below 54, set federally by IRCC, so it does not vary by province. Universities ask higher, often 60 for bachelor's and 65 for master's programs, with top schools wanting 65+.
The baseline is clearer than most students think: your Canada study visa needs an overall PTE Academic score of 58 with no section under 54. Because IRCC sets this centrally, it does not change from province to province. What does change is the score your chosen institution demands, and that is usually higher than the visa floor.
PTE Scores by Study Level
| Program level | Overall PTE | Section minimum |
|---|---|---|
| Diploma or certificate | 58 | No section below 54 |
| Undergraduate degree | 60 | No section below 56 |
| Postgraduate degree | 65 | No section below 58 to 60 |
| Visa baseline (IRCC) | 58 | No section below 54 |
How Provinces and Institutions Vary
| University or rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto (Ontario) | 65+ with 60 in communicative skills |
| University of British Columbia | 65+ with 60 in each section |
| University of Alberta | 61+ with no band below 60 |
| Provincial rules | Most need a PAL, Quebec also needs a CAQ |
My Advice
Register for the PTE Academic, not the PTE Core, because Core is only for permanent residency and citizenship tracks. Aim for the university requirement rather than the visa floor, since clearing admission automatically covers the visa. Your scores stay valid for two years, and remember most college applicants must secure a Provincial Attestation Letter before filing the study permit.
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