PTE Core
Prove your English language proficiency for Canadian immigration, citizenship and professional registration with our fast, fair and widely accepted test.
Find your next available testYour pathway to Canada starts with PTE Core
PTE Core is designed for people who want to migrate to Canada for work, or apply for Canadian citizenship. It's accepted for all immigration programs that require proof of English language proficiency.
What is PTE Core?
PTE Core is a computer-based English test that assesses your everyday speaking, writing, reading and listening skills.
It's specifically designed for Canadian immigration purposes and measures your ability to communicate in real-world situations.
Who is PTE Core for?
Choose PTE Core if you plan to apply for Canadian permanent residence, work permits, or citizenship and need to prove your English language ability.
It's also recognized by some professional bodies in Canada for registration purposes.
Accepted for all Canadian immigration programs
PTE Core scores are accepted by IRCC for various immigration pathways
Express Entry
Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, Canadian Experience Class
Provincial Nominee Programs
Most Canadian provinces accept PTE Core for their nomination programs
Family Sponsorship
Spouse or common-law partner sponsorship applications
Study Permit Extensions
For those extending their stay in Canada for educational purposes
Citizenship Applications
Proof of English language proficiency for Canadian citizenship
Work Permits
Various work permit categories requiring language assessment
Why choose PTE Core for Canadian immigration?
Get results in typically 2 days
Our unique combination of AI scoring and human expertise reduces the risk of bias
Accepted by IRCC for all Canadian immigration programs
Fully computer-based test, taken in a test center
A single 2-hour test
Assesses your everyday English communication skills
Take your PTE Core test in one of over 500 test centers around the world
We run regular test days and often have last-minute availability – you can book as soon as tomorrow. Find a date and time that works for you.
Find test centers and fees
PTE Core scores aligned with Canadian Language Benchmarks
Your PTE Core scores are directly mapped to CLB levels, making it easy to understand how your results meet IRCC requirements for different immigration programs.
CLB Level Requirements:
Smart Prep for test day confidence
Smart Prep combines all our practice materials in one place, so it's easier for you to stay on track and achieve your target CLB level.
Start with Scored Practice Tests:
Mock tests which are marked through the same AI engine as the real test, and come with a full Score Report showing your CLB level.
- Access free and paid prep in one single place
- Buy in packages and save up to 45%
- Get free resources like our Guided Practice Tests and the Study Plan
- Practice tasks split by skill
Learn the PTE Core test format
Get videos, descriptions, and test tips for every question type in PTE Core
This section tests your ability to produce spoken and written English in an everyday environment.
Learn more about part 1
This section tests your ability to read and understand written English in an everyday environment.
Learn more about part 2
This section tests your ability to understand spoken English in an everyday environment.
Learn more about part 3This section tests your ability to produce spoken and written English in an everyday environment.
Learn more about part 1Ready to take your PTE Core test?
Book your test today and get your results in as little as 2 days. Start your Canadian immigration journey with confidence.
Need help choosing the right test?
Use our test finder tool to find the best PTE test for your goals.