PTE Core is the newest English proficiency test developed by Pearson that is officially approved by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) for Canadian permanent residency (PR), work permits, and Express Entry programs. Unlike PTE Academic, it is tailored for real-life and workplace English rather than academic contexts.
| Section | Time | Skills Tested | Task Types |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Speaking & Writing
|
50–60 mins
|
Speaking + Writing
|
Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Describe Image
|
|
Reading |
30–35 mins
|
Reading
|
Fill in the Blanks, Multiple Choice, Reorder
|
|
Listening
|
30–35 mins
|
30–35 mins
|
Dictation, Summarize Spoken Text, Fill Blanks
|
PTE Core scores range from 10 to 90 and are mapped to Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for immigration purposes:
| PTE Score | CLB Level |
|---|---|
|
60–68
|
CLB 7
|
|
69–74
|
CLB 8
|
|
75–84
|
CLB 9
|
|
85+
|
CLB 10
|
Each skill (Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing) is evaluated independently and contributes to the overall score.
PTE Core is the latest English language proficiency test accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for Canadian permanent residency and citizenship pathways. Designed specifically for economic immigration programs, PTE Core assesses day-to-day English usage in Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening with real-world, workplace-relevant tasks.
It is entirely computer-based, conducted at Pearson-authorized test centers, and features automated scoring for reliable and fast results—typically within 2 business days.
PTE Core is a game-changer for Canadian immigration applicants. Tailored to meet the IRCC’s language criteria, it’s ideal for those applying for PR through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other economic pathways. Its practical approach, test reliability, and fast delivery make it the most convenient, focused, and immigration-aligned English test for Canada-bound applicants.
C2Prep – Your trusted online learning partner for IELTS, PTE, CELPIP, Duolingo, French & Early Education. We empower learners and families to succeed in exams, reconnect with Indian roots, and prepare for a brighter future.