Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Minimum PTE Core scores for each Express Entry programme
IRCC's who can apply page sets the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) for each programme, and its language test page converts PTE Core scores into CLB levels. The table shows the lowest PTE Core score that reaches each programme's minimum.
| Programme | Minimum CLB | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Skilled Worker | CLB 7 in all four | 60 | 69 | 60 | 68 |
| Canadian Experience Class, TEER 0 or 1 | CLB 7 in all four | 60 | 69 | 60 | 68 |
| Canadian Experience Class, TEER 2 or 3 | CLB 5 in all four | 42 | 51 | 39 | 51 |
| Federal Skilled Trades | CLB 5 speaking and listening, CLB 4 reading and writing | 33 | 41 | 39 | 51 |
Which PTE test, and how old the result can be
IRCC says you must take the PTE Core option (language test page). PTE Academic is not on its Express Entry list. The other English tests it accepts are CELPIP-General and IELTS General Training; it does not accept IELTS One Skill Retake for Express Entry.
Your results must be less than two years old when you complete your Express Entry profile and when you submit your permanent residence application. If you apply with expired results, IRCC says it will refuse the application. Pearson says a PTE Core Score Report is valid for two years from the test date (PTE Core FAQ).
Need CLB 7+ for Express Entry?
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.
The minimum gets you into the pool, not an invitation
Meeting the minimum makes you eligible. Your rank in the pool comes from the Comprehensive Ranking System, where each language skill earns points by CLB level. See how many CRS points PTE Core gives for the per-skill numbers.
IRCC changes programme rules and score tables from time to time. Check the linked canada.ca page before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not immigration advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is PTE Academic accepted for Express Entry?+
No. IRCC says you must take the PTE Core option.
What PTE Core score is CLB 7?+
Reading 60, writing 69, listening 60 and speaking 68 at the minimum, from IRCC's table.
Does IRCC use the PTE Core overall score?+
No. Programme minimums and CRS points are set per skill: reading, writing, listening and speaking.
How old can my PTE Core result be for Express Entry?+
Less than two years old when you complete your profile and when you submit your permanent residence application.
Which Express Entry programme has the lowest English requirement?+
Federal Skilled Trades: CLB 5 in speaking and listening and CLB 4 in reading and writing.
Keep reading
Related
- PTE Core to CLB calculator
- How to send your PTE Core score to IRCC
- How many CRS points PTE Core gives
- Free PTE Core practice test
- 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.
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