Who sets the score?
Your institution sets the PTE Academic requirement, not IRCC. Universities and colleges accept PTE Academic as proof of English for admission, and each program lists its own minimum overall score, sometimes with a floor in each section. Your job is to meet the exact number your program requires.
What PTE Academic score do universities ask for?
As a rough guide, many undergraduate and diploma programs look for an overall score in the high 50s to mid 60s. Competitive or postgraduate programs often ask for 65 or higher, and some set a minimum in each of the four skills. Treat these as general ranges only, because the real target is your program page.
How does PTE Academic connect to your study permit?
Meeting the English requirement gets you admission, which leads to your letter of acceptance. Your study permit then relies on that admission. For how PTE Academic fits into the study permit process, and why the Student Direct Stream ending changed things, see our guide on PTE Academic for a Canadian study permit.
How do you reach your target PTE Academic score?
Once you know your number, measure your four skills and focus on the weakest one. A short, targeted plan usually beats broad practice. See our PTE Academic study plan to get there.
PTE Academic score for Canadian universities: frequently asked questions
What is the minimum PTE Academic score for Canadian universities?
It depends on the institution and program. Many programs accept an overall score in the high 50s to mid 60s, and competitive programs often ask for 65 or higher. Check your program page.
Does IRCC set the PTE Academic score for study?
No. Your college or university sets the requirement for admission, and your study permit relies on meeting that requirement.
Do universities set a minimum in each skill?
Some programs set a minimum in each of the four skills as well as an overall score, so check both on your program page.
Is a higher PTE Academic score better for admission?
Aiming a few points above the minimum gives you a safety margin and can help for competitive programs, though meeting the stated requirement is what matters for eligibility.
What score should I aim for if I am unsure?
Confirm the exact overall and per-skill requirement on your program page, then target a few points above it so a single weak skill does not fall short.
PTE Academic coaching for your target band
PTEfy is online PTE Academic and PTE Core coaching built around the exact band your program asks for. We target the skills that move your score.
See PTE coaching plansKeep reading: PTE Academic for study permit · PTE Academic exam format · PTE Academic study plan