Using the PTE Exam for Australia & Canada Immigration (The Definitive 2025 Guide)

For many people around the world, moving to Australia or Canada represents a life-changing goal. A crucial step in that journey is proving your English language proficiency. To meet this requirement, the PTE (Pearson Test of English) has become an increasingly popular choice, largely because of its speed, objectivity, and wide acceptance by both governments.

However, navigating the specific requirements can be confusing. For instance, what scores do you need? And which specific PTE test is right for your visa application? Getting this wrong can lead to costly delays or even a rejected application.

This guide provides clear and detailed answers to these critical questions. Specifically, we will break down the requirements for both Australia and Canada, explaining the different proficiency levels, how your PTE score translates into crucial immigration points, and which test you must book to make your dream a reality.

Which PTE Test Do You Need for Immigration?

Before you book a test, you must select the correct version of the PTE for your target country. This is the most important first step.

Pearson offers two main computer-based English tests that are relevant for study and immigration: the PTE Academic and the newer PTE Core. Although they share a similar format and many of the same task types, they are designed for different purposes and, crucially, are not always interchangeable for visa applications. Selecting the correct one is essential.

For Australian Visas: The PTE Academic

The Australian Department of Home Affairs accepts the PTE Academic for all visa categories. You can see the full list of accepted tests on their official website. This includes student visas, all skilled migration visas, and other visa categories.

For Canadian Immigration: The PTE Core

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accepts the new PTE Core for all economic class immigration programs. Consequently, this includes the popular Express Entry system. The PTE Academic is not accepted for Canadian permanent residency applications, so it is essential to book the PTE Core.

Why Choose PTE for Your Immigration Application?

Applicants for Australian and Canadian visas often choose the PTE for several practical reasons.

• Fast Results: You typically receive your PTE score report within 48 hours. This speed can be a major advantage when you are facing tight application deadlines.
• Objective AI Scoring: An AI algorithm scores the entire test, including the speaking section. This eliminates the possibility of human bias and ensures that your score is a consistent and objective measure of your ability.
• Widespread Acceptance: As we will detail below, both the Australian and Canadian immigration authorities fully accept the PTE.

PTE for Australian Immigration: A Deep Dive into the Points System

Australia’s skilled migration program is a competitive, points-based system. Your English language ability is one of the most significant factors in your total points score. For this, you need the PTE Academic.

Understanding Australia’s English Proficiency Levels

The Department of Home Affairs defines four levels of English ability. To meet these levels, you must achieve the minimum PTE Academic score in all four individual skills: Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing. You can find the detailed score requirements on the official Home Affairs website.

Skilled Migration Visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491): The Points Test Explained

For popular visas like the Skilled Independent (189), Skilled Nominated (190), and Skilled Work Regional (491), your English score is critical.

• The Minimum vs. The Target: While “Competent English” (50+ in each skill) makes you eligible to enter the application pool, it gives you zero points. In the current competitive environment, this is not a viable score to aim for.
• The Strategic Goal: To have a competitive application, you should aim for at least “Proficient English” (65+ in each skill) to secure 10 points. However, the ultimate goal for most serious applicants is “Superior English” (79+ in each skill). The 20 points awarded for this level can be the single biggest boost to your profile and can therefore dramatically increase your chances of receiving an invitation.

Employer-Sponsored & Other Visas: What Scores Are Needed?

• Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482): Most streams require at least “Competent English” (PTE 50+ in each skill).
• Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186): Most applicants for this permanent visa will need to demonstrate “Competent English.”
• Student Visas (subclass 500): Your chosen university sets the score you need, but it generally ranges from 50 to 65 overall.

PTE for Canadian Immigration: Understanding CLB and CRS Points

Canada’s main system for economic immigration is Express Entry, which uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank candidates. For this, you need the PTE Core.

How Your PTE Core Score Converts to CLB Levels (The Official Chart)

Canada uses the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) to measure your skills. The government then converts your PTE Core scores into a CLB level for each of the four abilities. You can view the full, official conversion chart on the Government of Canada’s website.

Express Entry and the CRS: Why CLB 9 is the “Golden Target”

While a minimum of CLB 7 is often required for eligibility, the strategic target for a competitive Express Entry profile is CLB 9 in all four skills.

• Why it’s so important: Achieving this “golden target” does two things. First, it gives you the maximum CRS points for your language ability. More importantly, it unlocks a huge number of “skill transferability” bonus points based on your education and work experience. The number of these bonus points is cut in half if even one of your skills drops to CLB 8. This “points cliff” means that aiming for CLB 9 is the most effective strategy to maximize your CRS score.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) and Study Permits

• PNPs: Each province sets its own rules. Many now accept the PTE Core, but you must check the specific requirements for the province you are interested in.
• Study Permits: For studying in Canada, most universities accept the PTE Academic. The required scores typically range from 58-73 overall, depending on the institution and program.

A Strategic Preparation Plan for Your Immigration Goal

Step 1: Set Your Exact Target Score

Based on this guide, you now know what to aim for. For Australia, it’s 79+ in each PTE Academic skill. Similarly, for Canada, it’s the PTE Core scores that equal CLB 9. Your goal is not just to pass, but to excel.

Step 2: Take a Diagnostic Mock Test to Find Your Weaknesses

The best way to start is to understand your current level. Take a free, full-length PTE mock test. The detailed score report will then show you which of the four skills are currently below your target, so you know exactly where to focus your efforts.

Step 3: Use a Targeted Practice Routine

After that, use your mock test results to guide your study. If your Speaking score is holding you back, for instance, dedicate most of your time to the PTE Speaking practice section. If Reading is your challenge, focus on the PTE Reading practice section.

Final Checklist: Is PTE the Right Test for Your Immigration Journey?

• Choose PTE if: You need your results quickly, you are a fast typist, and you prefer an objective, AI-scored test.
• Consider another test if: You are uncomfortable with a fully computer-based format or prefer a face-to-face speaking interview.

Frequently Asked Questions for Immigration Applicants

Q1. I already have a PTE Academic score. Can I use it for Canadian PR?

No. This is a critical point. For Canadian permanent residency applications through Express Entry, IRCC will only accept the PTE Core. The PTE Academic is not valid for this purpose.

Q2. For the Australian “Superior English” level, is it an average of 79?

No. You must achieve a minimum score of 79 in each of the four individual skills (Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing). Your overall score is not used for this points calculation.

Q3. How long are my PTE scores valid for immigration?

For both Australian and Canadian immigration authorities, your test results are strictly valid for two years from the date you took the test. Your test must be valid on the date you submit your visa application.

Q4. What if I miss the score for one skill by only one point?

Unfortunately, the requirements are very strict. If you are aiming for “Superior English” for Australia and get 79+ in three skills but a 78 in one, you will only be awarded 10 points for “Proficient English.” Similarly, for Canada, if one skill falls below the CLB 9 threshold, it can significantly impact your CRS points. This is why consistent performance across all four skills is so important.

Q5. Can I combine scores from two different PTE tests?

No. You cannot “superscore” or combine your best skill scores from multiple test sittings. The scores you submit for your visa application must all come from a single test report.

Q6. Do I need to send my score report to the immigration department myself?

For most online applications, you will be asked to enter your PTE Score Report Code or Test Registration ID. The immigration authorities then use this code to verify your scores directly and securely with Pearson. You do not typically need to upload a PDF, but you should always follow the specific instructions on your visa application form.