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PTE for Canadian Immigration: Complete Guide

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Canada is one of the world’s most popular destinations for skilled workers and international professionals. To immigrate, applicants must prove English proficiency—and until recently, the only IRCC-approved tests were IELTS and CELPIP.

But as of 2024, a new option is officially accepted: the PTE Core.

This test is gaining popularity fast due to its fully computer-based format, AI scoring, and fast results. In this guide, you’ll learn what PTE Core is, why Canada accepts it, how it maps to CLB scores, and whether it’s the right choice for your immigration pathway.

Table of Contents

What is PTE Core & Why Canada Accepts it

PTE Core is Pearson’s general English test, developed specifically for immigration, permanent residency, and work visa programs. It assesses four core language skills—Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening—using a fully digital, AI-scored format.

In January 2024, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) added PTE Core to its list of approved language tests for immigration programs such as:

  • Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, etc.)
  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
  • Agri-Food Pilot, Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot, and more
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Important: Another popular immigration pathway to Canada was the Student Direct Stream (SDS). However, in November 2024, the SDS was closed down. Now students need to apply through the standard study permit process, for which the PTE Core is not accepted.

CLB Equivalence for PTE Core

PTE Core scores are reported on a scale of 10 to 90, called the Global Scale of English (GSE). IRCC uses the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) to assess language proficiency, and each PTE Core score maps to a specific CLB level.

Here’s a simplified breakdown by Pearson:

PTE Core to CLB Conversion Table
PTE Core to CLB Conversion Table
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CLB 7 or higher is the typical benchmark for most Express Entry categories according to the official IRCC website.

Who Should Take PTE Core

PTE Core is ideal for anyone applying through a non-study immigration pathway to Canada. That includes:

  • Skilled professionals applying under Express Entry
  • Candidates for Provincial Nominee Programs
  • Workers applying via the Agri-Food Pilot, Home Child Care Provider Pilot, and more

Conclusion

With the introduction of PTE Core, Canada now offers immigration applicants a modern and efficient way to prove English proficiency.

It’s officially accepted by IRCC for nearly all skilled worker pathways and aligns directly to CLB levels, making it easy to understand your standing.

Whether you're applying for Express Entry or a provincial stream, PTE Core is a powerful alternative to IELTS and CELPIP—especially if you value a test with a quick turnaround time.

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Ready to get started? Use Arno’s PTE Vocabulary Builder to prepare with confidence!