Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
What to enter and where it comes from
Pearson's two help pages name different numbers. The PTE Core FAQ says you share your score with IRCC using the unique Score Report Code (SRC) on your Score Report, so IRCC can verify it securely. The scoring help page says you enter the IRCC Unique Reference Number (URN) from your Score Report on your visa application form. Both come from the Score Report in your myPTE account; enter whichever reference the IRCC form asks for.
| Item | Where to find it | What it is for |
|---|---|---|
| Score Report Code (SRC) | Top of your Score Report | Lets IRCC verify your result securely |
| IRCC Unique Reference Number | Your Score Report | Entered on your application form |
| Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing scores | Your Score Report | Converted to CLB levels for your application |
IRCC uses skill scores, not the overall
Pearson says Canadian applications usually ask for a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level in one or more skills. IRCC only requires the individual skill scores: your overall PTE score is not required and cannot be converted into CLB (PTE Core FAQ). Pearson and IRCC both publish the PTE Core to CLB conversion table.
To convert your own scores, use our PTE Core to CLB calculator.
Need a CLB score for Canada?
IRCC accepts IELTS General Training and PTE Core, not IELTS Academic or PTE Academic. Practise the test you will actually sit, free.
Try PTE Core free →Practise before you book: free PTE mock test, PTE predictions, PTE Core practice test and PTE to IELTS converter.
Timing, validity and ID
Most PTE Core test takers get their score within 2 business days, and it can take up to 5. The Score Report is valid for two years from the test date (PTE Core FAQ). PTE Core is only taken at test centres, not online.
For ID, PTE Core accepts a passport anywhere, or a Canadian Permanent Resident Card in Canada only (ID policy).
Pearson updates its policies from time to time. Check the linked page before you act. This guide is general information, not official PTE advice.
Frequently asked questions
Does IRCC need my overall PTE Core score?+
No. Pearson says IRCC only requires the individual skill scores, and the overall score cannot be converted into CLB.
How long is PTE Core valid for IRCC?+
Pearson says a PTE Core Score Report is valid for two years from the test date.
Can I use PTE Academic for Canada PR?+
Pearson tells permanent residence and citizenship applicants to choose PTE Core. PTE Academic is the PTE test for studying in Canada.
How soon will I have a PTE Core score to send?+
Most test takers get it within 2 business days; Pearson says it can take up to 5.
Can I send PTE Core to a Canadian university?+
Pearson says PTE Academic is still the only PTE test suitable for studying in Canada.
Keep reading
Related
- PTE Core to CLB calculator
- Does Express Entry accept PTE?
- PTE Academic vs PTE Core
- PTE Core for Canadian citizenship
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
© 2026 BandLadder. Written and checked by the BandLadder team. You may quote or cite this page with credit to BandLadder and a link to it; republishing it in full needs our written permission. Content use policy