Good news for skilled immigrant applicants – PTE Academic is now accepted for Express Entry!
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic has been added by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to the list of approved English language examinations for skilled immigrants applying through Express Entry. This is a major development that provides more choice and flexibility for applicants.
Accepted Language Tests for Express Entry:
While PTE Core is the latest addition, the IRCC recognizes several other language proficiency tests for Express Entry applicants. Here’s a brief overview of some commonly accepted tests:
IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
- IELTS is one of the most popular exams of English language competency, with a large global following.
- The four main language abilities that are evaluated are Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening.
- Both the General Training and Academic versions of IELTS are accepted by the IRCC.
CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program):
- Specifically designed for Canadian English, CELPIP evaluates language proficiency in various everyday situations.
- Accepted tests include CELPIP-General and CELPIP-General LS (Listening and Speaking).
TEF (Test d’évaluation de français):
- The IRCC recognizes the TEF as a widely accepted test of proficiency in French.
- It assesses candidates in listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills in French.
TCF (Test de connaissance du français):
- The TCF is an additional assessment of French language competency that gauges a candidate’s comprehension and expressiveness in the language.
The computer-based PTE Academic exam evaluates a candidate’s speaking, listening, writing, and reading comprehension.
Key advantages of PTE include:
- Fast results – scores are typically available within 5 business days.
- Scoring is entirely computer-based, resulting in very accurate and consistent results.
- Selectable test dates and locations in the majority of global metropolises
Impact of PTE
By accepting PTE, IRCC has ensured applicants have access to a high-quality test battery that is convenient and efficient to take. This is especially helpful given the rising application volume under Express Entry.
The acceptance of PTE Academic will make the application process easier for many skilled worker candidates aiming to immigrate to Canada.
As eligibility criteria may evolve over time, it’s good to have the latest information on program requirements with respect to tests such as PTE Core. Let’s go through the current landscape of PTE Core qualification for popular Canadian immigration programs.
PTE Core: Eligibility for Federal Skilled Worker Program
First official language (maximum 24 points)
Test results for each ability
| CLB Level | Speaking | Listening | Reading | Writing | Points per ability |
| 7 | 68-75 | 60-70 | 60-68 | 69-78 | 4 |
| 8 | 76-83 | 71-81 | 69-77 | 79-87 | 5 |
| 9 | 84-88 | 82-88 | 78-87 | 88-89 | 6 |
| 10 and above | 89+ | 89+ | 88+ | 90+ | 6 |
Second official language
(4 points if you meet the minimum threshold in each of the 4 language abilities)
Test results for each ability
| CLB Level | Speaking | Listening | Reading | Writing | Points (total) |
| 5 and above | 51-90 | 39-90 | 42-90 | 51-90 | 4 |
PTE Core: Eligibility for Federal Skilled Trade Program
Test results for each ability
| CLB Level | Speaking | Listening | Reading | Writing |
| 10 and above | 89+ | 89+ | 88+ | 90+ |
| 9 | 84-88 | 82-88 | 78-87 | 88-89 |
| 8 | 76-83 | 71-81 | 69-77 | 79-87 |
| 7 | 68-75 | 60-70 | 60-68 | 69-78 |
| 6 | 59-67 | 50-59 | 51-59 | 60-68 |
| 5 | 51-58 | 39-49 | 42-50 | 51-59 |
| 4 | 42-50 | 28-38 | 33-41 | 41-50 |
PTE Core: Eligibility for Canadian Experience Class
Test results for each ability
| NOC TEER | CLB Level | Speaking | Listening | Reading | Writing |
| 0 and 1 | 10 and above | 89+ | 89+ | 88+ | 90+ |
| 0 and 1 | 9 | 84-88 | 82-88 | 78-87 | 88-89 |
| 0 and 1 | 8 | 76-83 | 71-81 | 69-77 | 79-87 |
| 0 and 1 | 7 | 68-75 | 60-70 | 60-68 | 69-78 |
| 2 and 3 | 6 | 59-67 | 50-59 | 51-59 | 60-68 |
| 2 and 3 | 5 | 51-58 | 39-49 | 42-50 | 51-59 |
Making the Right Choice:
As an Express Entry applicant, the choice of a language proficiency test depends on various factors such as language preferences, test format, and personal strengths. Every exam has its own special characteristics, therefore applicants should carefully weigh these factors before choosing.
A step in the right direction toward developing an Express Entry system that is more accessible and inclusive is the addition of PTE Core to the IRCC’s list of approved language proficiency tests. Skilled immigrants now have a broader array of options to demonstrate their language skills, aligning with Canada’s commitment to attracting diverse talents from around the world. Whether opting for the widely recognized IELTS, the Canadian-centric CELPIP, or the newly accepted PTE Core, applicants can now choose the test that best suits their strengths and preferences, making their journey towards Canadian permanent residence more personalized and efficient.
