PTE Core Exam Canada’s Language Proficiency Benchmark

CLB scores are essential for meeting the language requirements of various Canadian immigration programs managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These include:

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):

• Minimum CLB 7 for the language ability factor.
• Higher scores improve your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points.

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP):

• Minimum CLB 5 for speaking and listening.
• Minimum CLB 4 for reading and writing.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC):

• NOC TEER 0 & 1 (Managerial and Professional Roles): Advanced English skills (CLB 7 in reading, writing, listening, and speaking) are necessary to handle complex tasks and ensure clear communication.
• NOC TEER 2 (Technical Occupations): Moderate proficiency in English (CLB 5 in all four skills) is required to interpret manuals, blueprints, and collaborate effectively with team members (e.g., construction workers, electricians).
• NOC TEER 3 (Labor and Service Supervisor Roles): Basic English proficiency is adequate, with a CLB 5 in reading and writing and a CLB 4 in listening and speaking, as these roles focus less on advanced reading and writing (e.g., cooks chefs,).

To learn more about the TEER Category, visit here.

Many provinces require CLB scores to evaluate language proficiency for nomination under their specific programs.

Atlantic Immigration Program:

• Minimum CLB levels depend on job type (TEER classification).
• Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot.
• Specific CLB requirements vary by community.

Family Sponsorship:Sponsors may need CLB scores in some cases to prove financial sufficiency through work.

Citizenship Applications:

• To become a Canadian citizen, applicants between the ages of 18 and 54 must demonstrate proficiency in English or French.
• A CLB level of 4 or higher is required to meet the language proficiency standard.

Post-secondary Institutions: CLB scores are sometimes used to demonstrate English proficiency for admission to colleges and universities in Canada, especially for programs requiring a specific level of language ability.

Certain employers or professional licensing bodies in Canada use CLB scores to evaluate language proficiency for hiring or certifying professionals.

Newcomers to Canada can use their CLB scores to enroll in government-funded language training programs such as:

• Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC): Helps immigrants improve their language skills.
• Enhanced Language Training (ELT): Provides advanced language and workplace preparation for specific professions.

CLB scores are used to assess eligibility for settlement programs, such as assistance in learning English for integration into Canadian society.

Some work permit programs, like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), may require proof of language ability via CLB scores.

Refugees may need to demonstrate a certain level of language proficiency to access integration services or apply for permanent residency.

Please note that these CLB scores may change according to policy changes, so visit the official website to authenticate.

• Create an Account: Go to the PTE website,click "Register," and enter your name, email, and password.
• Choose Test Date & Location: Log in, click "Book a Test," and select your preferred date and test center.
• Add Personal Details: Enter your ID (passport) information exactly as it appears for verification.
• Select Test Type: Pick the PTE Core test and specify if you want your results sent to multiple institutions.
• Make Payment: Pay the test fee (typically $150-$200 USD) using a credit/debit card or other payment methods.
• Receive Confirmation: Get an email confirming your test details once payment is complete.

• Arrive Early: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your test time to ensure a smooth check-in process. Late arrivals will not be allowed to take the test.
• Check-In Process: Upon arrival, check-in at the test center reception to begin the process.

• Read and Agree: You will need to read and agree to the Test Taker Agreement when you arrive at the test center.

• ID Verification: The Test Administrator will verify your ID, take your palm vein scan, and collect your signature for identity authentication.
• Fingerprinting: You will be asked to provide your fingerprint for further identity verification.
• Test Security Agreement: You will sign an agreement regarding test security and confidentiality.

• Rules and Regulations: The Test Administrator will explain all test center rules and regulations to ensure a fair testing environment.

• Storage Requirement: All personal belongings must be securely stored away in designated storage areas during the test.

Replacement will be provided, but whiteboards and pens must stay in the test room.

• Requesting Assistance: If you encounter any issues during the test (e.g., hardware or software problems), raise your hand to request help from the Test Administrator.
• Examples of Issues:
  • Hardware or software malfunctions
  • Running out of space on your erasable whiteboard or pen issues

• Content Assistance: The Test Administrator cannot provide any assistance related to the content of the test.
• Answering Questions: Once submitted, your answers cannot be revisited or changed.
• Time Management: Keep track of the clock to ensure you complete each section within the allotted time.

• No Official Breaks: Scheduled breaks are not provided.
• Unscheduled Break Option: If needed, you can request an unscheduled break from the Test Administrator.
• Restrictions During Break:
  • No access to personal belongings or lockers
  • No interaction with other test takers
  • Leaving the building during the break is prohibited
  • The test timer continues during your break

• End of Test: Once you have completed the test, raise your hand to signal the Test Administrator.
• Verification: The Test Administrator will check your workstation to confirm the test has been completed correctly.
• Escorted Exit: You will be escorted out of the test room where your identification will be electronically verified before departure.

• Results Notification: After the exam, you will receive an email notification when your scores are available.
• Viewing Scores: Your results will be accessible on your PTE account and sent to the institutions you selected.