In recent years, Canada has become a popular destination for people seeking education and immigration opportunities. With its diverse culture, robust economy, and welcoming policies, it’s no wonder that many aspire to make Canada their home.
English language competency is one of the most important requirements for a person to stay in Canada. Pearson Test of English (PTE) is one of the most popular choices for them. Is PTE accepted in Canada? Dive in to explore the requirements, scoring scale, tips, and tricks to get a high score on the PTE test.
Is PTE Accepted In Canada?
Yes, Canada is one of the countries that welcome the PTE as proof of English skills. Besides, it’s considered the fastest way to show you’re good at English and especially popular among students.
The PTE exam takes just 2 hours, and you’ll know the result within 48 hours. That’s why many students these days prefer PTE over IELTS.
Around 90% of Canada’s colleges, universities, and institutions say “yes” to the PTE test. It’s not only for education but also work when you’re applying for a student visa to study in Canada.
Which Universities And Colleges In Canada Accept PTE?
| Name of university/ college | Minimum PTE score accepted |
| University of Toronto, Toronto | 76 |
| The University of British Columbia, Vancouver | 65 |
| McGill University, Montreal | 65 |
| McMaster University, Hamilton | 60 |
| University of Montreal, Montreal | 59 |
| University of Alberta, Edmonton | 61 |
| University of Ottawa | 60 |
| University of Calgary, Calgary | 59 |
| University of Waterloo, Waterloo | 63 |
| Western University, London | 68 |
PTE Tests Accepted In Canada
In Canada, PTE Academic and PTE Core are two types of tests recognized for English language proficiency assessment.
These assessments are administered by Pearson VUE in a computer-based format. Both of these tests evaluate language competency based on 4 skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
Like PTE Academic, PTE Core uses a scoring scale ranging from 10 to 90, with 90 representing the highest attainable score.
Upon completing the test, test-takers receive a personalized Score Report detailing their overall score and providing a breakdown of their performance in each of the four English skills.
This result helps test-takers and educational institutions assess English language proficiency effectively for various academic and professional purposes in Canada.
The specific minimum score requirements for these tests vary among Canadian universities. For instance, St. Thomas University typically requires a minimum score of 50, while the University of British Columbia sets a higher threshold of 65.
| PTE Academic test | PTE Core test | |
| English environment/ content | Primarily assesses academic English skills within academic contexts, such as note-taking, summarizing lectures, and composing academic essays. | Focus on real-life, non-academic skills, including scenarios like reading a magazine article or writing job application emails. |
| Purpose | Designed for those planning to pursue academic studies in Canada or other countries. It is widely accepted for academic admissions and visa applications. | Designed for those aiming to work or apply for permanent residency in Canada. It is approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for migration purposes. |
How To Get A Good PTE Score?
To achieve a high PTE score, you can follow a well-rounded strategy as below:
- Turn to mock tests to familiarize yourself: Invest significant time in taking practice tests, which acquaint you with the test format and types of questions you will encounter.
- Learn how to manage your time: Practice with a timer to simulate real exam conditions, helping you estimate how quickly you need to answer questions within the allocated time.
- Hone your listening skills: You can improve your listening skill by listening to podcasts and taking note of important points.
- Practice reading: Read books and newspapers attentively, and make a habit of jotting down unfamiliar words. This habit not only broadens your vocabulary but also boosts your writing skills.
- Improve your writing proficiency: It’s best to spend time practicing writing on various prompts every day. Consistent practice is key to improving your writing skills.
- Spend time on speaking: Engage in regular spoken English practice, even if it’s just speaking to yourself. You can record your speech and listen to identify the mistakes and parts that need improvements.
- Practice with real-life situations: Incorporate English into your daily communication helps you react more promptly and effectively.
FAQs
Is The PTE Minimum Score In Every Canadian College/ University The Same?
No, the minimum PTE score required for admission varies among Canadian colleges and universities. For instance, the University of Manitoba, Simon Fraser University, and Queen’s University ask for a minimum score of 65, while the University of Ottawa has a slightly lower requirement of 60.
Therefore, prospective students or migrants should check the specific score requirements of their desired Canadian colleges and universities.
What Is The Validity Of The PTE Test?
The validity of the PTE test typically lasts 2 years from the date of the test. This means that PTE scores are generally accepted by universities and other educational organizations for admission and immigration purposes for up to 2 years after you have taken the test.
How Often Does Canada Hold A PTE Exam?
PTE exams in Canada are available all year round. Therefore, test-takers in Canada have the flexibility to choose the time that best suits their schedule and aligns with the admission of Canadian colleges and universities they plan to apply to.
Conclusion
So, is PTE accepted in Canada? Yes, it is widely accepted in Canada as proof of English language competency. It serves as a valuable option for those seeking educational opportunities, immigration, and work prospects in this diverse and welcoming country.
PTE offers advantages such as quick results and flexibility in test dates, making it a preferred choice for many applicants. Remember that each university has its own requirements, so it’s best to check beforehand to prepare for the PTE test and get the highest score possible.