PTE Score requirement for Canada, Australia & NZ
PTE Score requirement for Canada, Australia & NZ
Pearsons PTE

PTE Score Requirements for Canada, Australia, and New Zealand: A Comprehensive Guide

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) has become an increasingly popular option for demonstrating English proficiency for academic, professional, and immigration purposes. With computer-based testing and fast results, the PTE is accepted by thousands of institutions worldwide. However, the specific PTE score requirements can vary significantly by country, program, and institution.

This blog comprehensively overviews the minimum PTE scores needed for undergraduate, graduate, work visas, permanent residency (PR), and citizenship in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. We’ll cover the top universities in each country and compare the PTE requirements to other popular English tests like IELTS.

PTE Score for Canada

Here’s a detailed table with PTE score requirements for various universities in Canada, along with clear instructions for obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) and work visas.

Category University/Program Minimum PTE Score Notes
Undergraduate Study University of Toronto 65 No skills below 60
McGill University 63
University of British Columbia 65 No skills below 60
University of Alberta 61
University of Waterloo 63 At least 65 in writing and speaking
York University 65
McMaster University 60 At least 60 in writing and speaking
Queen’s University 60
University of Ottawa 60
Concordia University 61 No skills below 53
University of Guelph 60
Graduate Study University of Alberta 61
University of Waterloo 63 At least 65 in writing and speaking
York University 65
University of Toronto 65
University of Calgary 60
Work Visa Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) CLB 7 PTE Core: Reading 60-68, Writing 69-78, Listening 60-70, Speaking 68-75
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) CLB 5 PTE Core: Reading 42-50, Writing 51-59, Listening 39-49, Speaking 51-58
Permanent Residency (PR) General Requirement 60 Minimum PTE Core score recommended. PTE Academic scores of 65+ also accepted
Citizenship PTE Core accepted No specific minimum Must meet general language requirements; no specific PTE score mentioned

PTE Score Requirements for Canadian Immigration

1. Canada Permanent Residency (PR)

To apply for PR in Canada, follow these steps:

  • Choose the Right Program: Determine which immigration program you qualify for (e.g., Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, Provincial Nominee Program).
  • Language Proficiency:
    • For FSWP, achieve a CLB 7 level, which corresponds to a PTE Core score of:
      • Reading: 60-68
      • Writing: 69-78
      • Listening: 60-70
      • Speaking: 68-75
    • For FSTP, achieve a CLB 5 level, which corresponds to a PTE Core score of:
      • Reading: 42-50
      • Writing: 51-59
      • Listening: 39-49
      • Speaking: 51-58
  • Submit Your Application: After meeting the language requirements and gathering the necessary documents (education credentials, work experience, etc.), submit your application through the Express Entry system or the respective provincial program.
  • Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your profile is selected from the pool, you will receive an ITA for PR.
  • Complete Medical and Background Checks: Undergo medical examinations and background checks as part of the application process.
  • Await Decision: The processing time can vary. Once approved, you will receive your PR status.

2. Canada Work Visa

To apply for a work visa in Canada, follow these steps:

  • Job Offer: Secure a job offer from a Canadian employer. The employer may need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
  • Language Proficiency: Achieve the required PTE Core score based on the job category:
    • For FSWP: CLB 7 (PTE Core scores as mentioned above).
    • For FSTP: CLB 5 (PTE Core scores as mentioned above).
  • Gather Required Documents: Collect your job offer, proof of language proficiency, educational credentials, and work experience.
  • Submit Application: You can apply for a work permit through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or at a Canadian consulate.
  • Await Processing: Processing times vary based on the type of work permit and the applicant’s country of origin.

Understanding the PTE score requirements for various Canadian universities and immigration pathways is crucial for prospective students and immigrants.

Regularly check the official IRCC website for the most up-to-date information and requirements.

PTE for Australia

In Australia, PTE scores are crucial for students seeking university admission, professionals applying for work visas, and individuals pursuing permanent residency (PR). 

Category University/Program Minimum PTE Score Notes
Undergraduate Study University of Melbourne 58 Minimum score of 50 in each section
University of Sydney 62
Australian National University (ANU) 68
Monash University 50 Minimum score of 50 in each section
University of Queensland 65
University of Adelaide 50 Minimum score of 50 in each section
University of Technology Sydney (UTS) 50
RMIT University 50 Minimum score of 50 in each section
Deakin University 50
La Trobe University 50 Minimum score of 50 in each section
Graduate Study University of Melbourne 58 Minimum score of 50 in each section
University of Sydney 62
Australian National University (ANU) 68
Monash University 65
University of Queensland 65
University of Technology Sydney (UTS) 65
RMIT University 58
Deakin University 58
La Trobe University 58
Work Visa General Work Visa Requirements Varies Minimum PTE scores vary by occupation:
Functional English 30
Vocational English 36
Competent English 50 – 65
Proficient English 65 – 79
Superior English 79
Permanent Residency (PR) General Requirement 65 A minimum PTE score of 65 is required for PR applications.
Citizenship PTE Academic accepted No specific minimum Must meet general language requirements; no specific PTE score is mentioned

PTE for PR and Work Visa in Australia

1. Australia Permanent Residency (PR)

To apply for PR in Australia, follow these steps:

  • Choose the Right Program: Determine which immigration program you qualify for (e.g., Skilled Independent Visa, Employer Nomination Scheme, etc.).
  • Language Proficiency:
    • Achieve a minimum PTE score of 65, corresponding to a “Proficient” level of English proficiency.
  • Submit Your Application: After meeting the language requirements and gathering the necessary documents (education credentials, work experience, etc.), submit your application through the Department of Home Affairs.
  • Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your profile is selected from the pool, you will receive an ITA for PR.
  • Complete Medical and Background Checks: Undergo medical examinations and background checks as part of the application process.
  • Await Decision: The processing time can vary. Once approved, you will receive your PR status.

2. Australia Work Visa

To apply for a work visa in Australia, follow these steps:

  • Job Offer: Secure a job offer from an Australian employer.
  • Language Proficiency: Achieve the required PTE score based on the occupation:
    • Functional English: 30
    • Vocational English: 36
    • Competent English: 50-65
    • Proficient English: 65-79
    • Superior English: 79
  • Gather Required Documents: Collect your job offer, proof of language proficiency, educational credentials, and work experience.
  • Submit Application: You can apply for a work permit through the Department of Home Affairs or at a relevant Australian consulate.
  • Await Processing: Processing times vary based on the type of work visa and the applicant’s country of origin.

Be sure to regularly check the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date information and requirements.

PTE for New Zealand

Here’s a detailed overview of PTE score requirements for various universities in New Zealand, along with clear instructions for obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) and work visas.

Category University/Program Minimum PTE Score Notes
Undergraduate Study University of Auckland 60 No skills below 50
Victoria University of Wellington 58
University of Otago 60
Auckland University of Technology 58
Massey University 50 Minimum score of 50 in each section
Lincoln University 50 Minimum score of 50 in each section
University of Canterbury 60
Eastern Institute of Technology 50
Unitec Institute of Technology 50
Auckland Institute of Studies 50
Graduate Study University of Auckland 60 No skills below 50
Victoria University of Wellington 58
University of Otago 60
Auckland University of Technology 58
Massey University 58
Lincoln University 58
University of Canterbury 60
Work Visa General Work Visa Requirements Varies Minimum PTE scores vary by occupation:
Functional English 30
Vocational English 36
Competent English 50 – 65
Proficient English 65 – 79
Superior English 79
Permanent Residency (PR) General Requirement 65 A minimum PTE score of 65 is required for PR applications.
Citizenship PTE Academic accepted No specific minimum Must meet general language requirements; no specific PTE score is mentioned

By meeting the necessary language proficiency levels for PR and work visas, you can enhance their chances of successfully achieving their goals in New Zealand.

Regularly check the official Immigration New Zealand website for the most up-to-date information and requirements.

Conclusion

Achieving the required PTE scores is crucial for individuals aspiring to study or immigrate to Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Each country has specific score requirements that vary by institution and program, making it essential for prospective students and immigrants to research and understand these criteria thoroughly.

Universities in these countries typically require PTE scores ranging from 50 to 68, while immigration pathways have their score thresholds. To ensure success in achieving the required scores, candidates should utilize effective preparation strategies, including taking practice tests and familiarizing themselves with the test format.

For those looking to enhance their preparation, Gurully offers comprehensive PTE mock tests for both PTE Core and PTE Academic. These mock tests provide a realistic testing environment, helping you identify strengths and weaknesses while building confidence for the exam.

By investing time in preparation and utilizing available resources, you can navigate the PTE requirements effectively and take significant steps toward realizing your academic and professional goals in these vibrant countries.

Author

Brijesh Dhanani

Brijesh Dhanani, Co-founder of Gurully Technologies, is a visionary leader who is passionate about empowering students and professionals. With a deep understanding of the evolving education landscape, Brijesh is dedicated to making global opportunities accessible to everyone through innovative tools and resources.