PGWP PTE Requirement: What PTE Core Score Do You Need for a Post-Graduation Work Permit?

Since November 1, 2024, most Post-Graduation Work Permit applicants must prove English or French ability; IRCC's only listed exception is for graduates of PGWP-eligible flight schools.

PTE Core scores are reported on a 10–90 scale, and IRCC converts each skill score to a CLB level using score ranges. Here's how those ranges work and which level applies to you.

Which PTE Core Test Does IRCC Accept for a PGWP?

The PTE test IRCC lists for PGWP purposes is PTE Core, a general English test designed for Canadian immigration and work purposes.

PTE Academic is a different test. It is commonly used for university admission, and it is not the PTE test shown in IRCC's PGWP conversion table. If you took PTE Academic for your studies, don't assume that result can be used for your PGWP.

What PTE Core Score Do You Need for a PGWP?

IRCC converts your PTE Core results into Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels. These are the minimum scores for CLB 7 and CLB 5, taken from IRCC's PGWP language results page:

The table shows the IRCC score range for each level. What matters is the lowest number in each range: to meet CLB 7, your reading score must be 60 or higher, writing 69 or higher, listening 60 or higher and speaking 68 or higher. Scores above the CLB 7 range meet CLB 7 as well, since they convert to a higher CLB. The minimums are different for each skill — writing and speaking require higher numbers than reading and listening.

CLB 5 vs CLB 7: Which Level Applies to You?

The level you need depends on the program you completed, not on the test you take:

• CLB 7 in all four abilities — generally applies to graduates of bachelor's, master's and doctoral programs, and certain other university programs.
• CLB 5 in all four abilities — generally applies to graduates of college, polytechnic and other non-university programs.

Not every PGWP applicant needs CLB 7, and not every applicant can rely on CLB 5. If you completed more than one program, IRCC notes that you may need to meet the higher requirement. The exact assessment depends on your program and circumstances, so check IRCC's eligibility page for your situation.

Do You Need the Required Score in Every Section?

Yes. IRCC does not use your overall PTE Core score for the PGWP. For example, a result of 75 reading, 80 listening, 70 speaking and 65 writing looks strong overall, but 65 writing falls below the CLB 7 writing minimum of 69, so it would not meet a CLB 7 requirement.

How Old Can Your PTE Core Results Be?

Your language test results must be less than 2 years old when you submit your PGWP application. Results that are older than 2 years at the time you apply are not accepted, even if the scores were high enough.

IRCC also expects you to include proof of your results with your application. See IRCC's PGWP document requirements for how to submit them.

What If You Don't Meet the Required PTE Core Score?

If your results fall below the level that applies to your program, don't assume you are eligible. Depending on your circumstances, you may consider:

• retaking PTE Core;
• taking another English test that IRCC accepts for PGWP purposes;
• confirming which language threshold applies to your specific program; and
• reviewing the full PGWP eligibility requirements before you apply.

A new test result does not, on its own, make you eligible. All other requirements must still be met.

IRCC also accepts IELTS General Training (see our PGWP IELTS Requirement guide) and CELPIP-General (see our PGWP CELPIP Requirement guide) for PGWP purposes, among the tests listed on IRCC's language results page.

Language Ability Is Only One Part of PGWP Eligibility

Meeting the language requirement does not mean you qualify for a PGWP. You may also need to meet requirements related to:

• an eligible designated learning institution and program;
• graduating from your program;
• your study permit and status;
• full-time study, where applicable;
• field of study, where applicable;
• when you apply; and
• any other current IRCC requirements.

For a broader overview of eligibility and how we can help, see our Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) page.