Pearson Test of English will be available for Canadian immigration from January 30, 2024. However, the PTE Core test will not be available for the Student Direct Stream. Furthermore, candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program, Express Entry, and those who require a language test for different Canadian immigration initiatives apart from SDS (also applying for Canadian citizenship) can now undertake the PTE core test.
Pearson Test of English will be available for Canadian immigration – Understanding the PTE Core
The PTE Core is a computerized language exam designed to demonstrate general English proficiency for immigration purposes to Canada. Within a two-hour timeframe, the test evaluates speaking, writing, reading, and listening in daily English. There are about 400 testing facilities located all over the world.
According to Pearson’s website, the exam receives scores by both AI and humans to lower the possibility of bias. Usually, test results are available in two days.
The PTE core is classified into three parts:
- Speaking and Writing – 50 minutes
- Reading – 30 minutes
- Listening – 30 minutes
The PTE Essential exam was taken over by the PTE Core last year and was granted approval for use in Canada for immigration purposes. Note that Pearson offers several exam kinds (e.g., PTE Academic), just like other authorized language testing organizations. It is essential that prospective immigrants make sure they finish the appropriate test for the program of their choice.
| CELPIP General | IELTS General Training | PTE Core | TEF Canada | TCF Canada |
| CLB Level | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking |
| 10 | 88-90 | 90 | 89-90 | 89-90 |
| 9 | 78-87 | 88-89 | 82-88 | 84-88 |
| 8 | 69-77 | 79-87 | 71-81 | 76-83 |
| 7 | 60-68 | 69-78 | 60-70 | 68-75 |
| 6 | 51-59 | 60-68 | 50-59 | 59-67 |
| 5 | 42-50 | 51-59 | 39-49 | 51-58 |
| 4 | 33-41 | 41-50 | 28-38 | 42-50 |
| 3 | 24-32 | 32-40 | 18-27 | 34-41 |
The existing acceptable language tests
IRCC now accepts five language tests in total for immigration purposes, including the PTE Core. These are the following:
- CELPIP General Test (English);
- IELTS General Training (English);
- PTE Core (English);
- TEF Canada (French); and
- TCF Canada (French).
These five assessments evaluate language proficiency in four domains: speaking, writing, listening, and reading. Within these four competencies, individuals may need to meet varying requirements depending on the particular program under which they apply.
For instance, depending on the program they select, immigration prospects applying under Express Entry-managed programs will require varying scores. A minimum CLB level of 7 is vital for all language skills by candidates under the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
However, candidates must have a minimum CLB level of 5 for speaking and hearing. They must also show a minimum level of 4 for reading and writing in order to qualify for the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Additionally, candidates seeking a position in the CEC must have a minimum CLB level 7 or level 5 proficiency in all language skills. This will depend on the NOC competence level essential for their position.
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