Pearson Test of English — Core
PTE Core
Approved by IRCC for Canadian permanent residence (Express Entry) and citizenship — a fast, computer-based alternative to CELPIP.
Duration
≈ 2 hours
Cost
≈ USD 230 (CAD 320)
Score validity
2 years
Sections
Speaking & Writing
Personal intro, read aloud, describe image, write email.
Reading
Multiple choice, re-order paragraphs, fill in the blanks.
Listening
Summarise spoken text, MCQ, highlight correct summary.
Scoring
Overall 10–90, mapped to CLB. CLB 7 ≈ 60; CLB 9 ≈ 76.
Prep tactics that work
- Focus on everyday workplace contexts, not academic English.
- Practise email writing — formal and informal registers.
- Time the 'Describe Image' task — 40 seconds goes fast.
- Use Pearson's official PTE Core mock once you're test-ready.
Coaching by Eduledge
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PTE Core coaching aligned to CLB targets for Canadian PR.