PTE for a Canadian Study Visa: What is the Minimum Score?

If you are heavily preparing to study in Canada, you probably already know which is your dream university. But have you asked yourself what level of English you need to study in an English-speaking area? Is there any specific test? What is the minimum score? 

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Apart from other requirements, there is an English proficiency test, specifically the Pearson Test of English (PTE), which allows universities to assess whether their applicants can even attend the program in English and progress academically and professionally at the required level.

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For more information about the PTE, what exactly it is for, what the minimum score you must achieve, and which universities accept a specific score, you will find this article.

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If you are curious about other instructions regarding studying and working in Canada, BorderPass will help you along the way.

What is the Pearson Test of English (PTE)?

The PTE (Pearson Test of English) is a computer-based English language test offered by Pearson for international students to demonstrate language skills as part of the study application process.

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You take the PTE Academic test when you want to study or work in an English-speaking country abroad, in this case, Canada.

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The PTE is used to assess the level of knowledge within three primary modules: speaking and writing, reading and listening. You should complete the test in two hours and expect the processing timelines of results, usually after two days.

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What makes it accurate and reliable is automated scoring and artificial intelligence.

Why is PTE Important for a Canadian Study Visa?

Logically, knowledge of the English language is crucial for your professional development in Canada. It’s one of the essential entry pathways to your studies and opens the door to many future business opportunities for immigrants worldwide.

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Moreover, being recognized by 96% of Canada's designated learning institutes, the PTE is the fastest way to get an acceptance letter.

PTE Acceptance in Canadian Educational Institutions

PTE is a widely recognized exam that most Canadian educational institutions accept for admission of international students.

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It can be said that PTE is accepted as a requirement for attending many academic programs and immigration programs. As for professions such as accounting, engineering, medicine, or hotel management, a very high score is not strictly required.

Universities & Colleges Accepting PTE Scores for Study in Canada

The chance that your desired university accepts PTE scores is enormous. Precisely because the universities are in the English-speaking area, you can enroll in some of the most prestigious programs in this language.

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Here is the list of the universities & colleges accepting PTE scores for studying in Canada:

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• York University
• University of Ottawa
• University of British Columbia
• Queen's university
• Ryerson University
• Humber College
• University of Guelph
• University of Alberta
• Concordia University
• University of Manitoba
• Western University

• Centennial College
• Seneca College
• Georgian College
• George Brown College

Course-Specific PTE Acceptance in Canada

Just as the PTE is a requirement for admission to most Canadian universities, it’s also the case for course-specific PTE acceptance in Canada. 

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You can choose a university and a particular program from the list above based on your preferences.

What is the Minimum PTE Score for a Canada Student Visa?

Currently, the PTE Academic test is scored on a scale of 10 to 90 points, with usually 60 points as the minimum score you need to enroll in a specific program.

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While the PTE score assesses English language proficiency for obtaining a Canadian student visa, the minimum score usually depends on the Canadian university you are applying to.

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Remember, the PTE score required for Canada is only one of the factors universities consider when deciding on your admission. All other documentation is also equally important. Therefore, your application form must stand out from thousands of other students worldwide.

PTE Score Requirements for Top Canadian Universities and Colleges

Each university individually has its required minimum score. It makes sense because different programs don't need the same level of knowledge either. For instance, programs like psychology or law require a high level of English because these professions include a lot of interaction between people.

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However, let’s look at the PTE score requirements for top Canadian universities and colleges.

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• York University: 60-65
• University of British Columbia: 65-72
• University of Alberta: 61-68
• University of Waterloo: 60-68
• University of Ottawa: 60
• St. Thomas University: 50
• Western University: 58
• Nipissing University: 58
• McGill University: 65
• University of Calgary: 59

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While these may be average scores that change over time, we advise you to check with the university for updated information.

How to Apply for a Canadian Student Visa with PTE

Applying for a study permit while on a visitor visa includes a few steps. You must fulfill eligibility criteria and go through standard legal procedures.

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Here is the overview:

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• You need to receive an acceptance letter from a DLI in Canada before applying for a study permit
• Take the PTE Academic test and ensure you meet the minimum score requirements set by your chosen DLI
• Gather the required documents, including your passport, proof of identity, and proof of financial support
• You will need to provide information about yourself, your DLI, your PTE Academic score, and other relevant details
•  Pay the application fees

Comparing PTE with Other English Proficiency Tests

Although the emphasis here is on the Pearson Test of English (PTE), you may have heard of other English proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL or IELTS.

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Which English proficiency test you take depends mainly on your academic or career goals. Although they assess the level of knowledge equally well, what differentiates them is the layout and format of the test, the scoring system, and the test recognition by different universities.

PTE vs. IELTS for Canada Study Visa

We will draw your attention to some critical differences between PTE and IELTS, so you know when you start the university application process.

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PTE scores range from 10-90, with 90 as the highest score 

IELTS scores range from 1-9, with 9 as the highest score

It has more visual and audio materials

It has more academic texts

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Although many universities recognize IELTS and PTE, some prefer one over the other, so research the institution's requirements before taking the test.

Advantages of Choosing PTE for Canada Study Visa

When choosing a test to take, the first things that come to mind are your personal study preferences, target universities and programs, and business opportunities and employers.

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The PTE is a great option if you prefer a computer-based format that provides faster results and a highly accurate language proficiency assessment. Plus, the dates of attendance are flexible, allowing you to choose the time that suits you best.

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Considering this, it's no surprise that PTE is accepted by many universities and colleges worldwide, including the UK, Australia, and the USA. 

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What is possibly of great interest is that fees for PET exams are quite reasonable.

Key Takeaways

• The PTE is a computer-based English language test that assesses a candidate's language skills as part of the application requirements
• Top Canadian Universities and Colleges have different PTE Score Requirements
• Application
• Which English proficiency test you take, PTE or IELTS, depends mainly on the university and chosen program, as well as academic or career goals

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PTE Accepted for Canada PR?

PTE is accepted for Canada PR since IRCC has approved PTE, citizenship, and all other economic visa categories under immigration policies.

How Much Is a PTE Score Required to Study in Canada?

It mainly depends on the university you enroll in and your chosen program.

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• Undergraduate diploma: 45 in PTE and 36 in each module
• Undergraduate degree: 50 in PTE and 45 in each section
• Post-graduate diploma/degree: 65 in PTE and 50 in each section

Can I Convert My Visitor Visa to a Study Permit with a PTE Score?

Yes, the conversion process is possible. PTE is accepted as proof of English language proficiency for Canadian student visas, especially when converting a visitor visa into a study permit in Canada.