From January 30, 2024, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Core test will now be accepted for all immigration routes except the Student Direct Stream (SDS).

This means that Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates, Express Entry managed program candidates, and candidates who need a language test for other Canadian immigration purposes (outside of the SDS) – including applying for Canadian citizenship – can now take the PTE Core test.

Know if you are eligible for Canadian immigration

What is PTE core?

The PTE Core is a computer-based language test with a special emphasis on proving general English ability for Canadian immigration. This test assesses everyday English skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening within a two-hour time frame. Testing centers can be found in over 400 locations worldwide.

According to Pearson’s website, the test is evaluated by both humans and AI to reduce the risk of bias. Test results can typically be obtained within two days.

The PTE Corps is divided into three parts:

• Speaking and Writing (50 minutes);
• reading (30 minutes); and
• Listening (30 minutes).

The PTE Core replaces the previous PTE Essentials test, which was approved for Canadian immigration last year. It should be noted that Pearson (like other approved language testing organizations) offers multiple types of tests (i.e. PTE Academic). Immigration candidates are advised to ensure they complete the correct test for their chosen program.

Below is a comparison table between the PTE Core test and the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB).

To learn more about CLB, visit our dedicated webpage here.

Five accepted language tests

With the addition of the PTE Core, there are now a total of five language tests that are accepted by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for immigration purposes. These are:

• CELPIP General Test (English);
• IELTS General Training (English);
• PTE Core (English);
• TEF Canada (French); and
• TCF Canada (French).

All five of these tests assess language ability within four skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Depending on the specific program candidates are applying for, they may need to meet different criteria within these four skills.

For example, immigration candidates applying under the Express Entry-managed program will need different scores depending on the program they choose. Candidates under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) need a minimum of CLB level 7 for all language skills. However, candidates under the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) need a minimum of CLB level 5 for speaking and listening and at least level 4 for reading and writing. In addition, candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) need a minimum of CLB level 7 or level 5 in all language abilities depending on the National Occupation Classification (NOC) skill level of their job.

Know if you are eligible for Canadian immigration