PTE Core vs PTE Academic
The difference between PTE Core and PTE Academic, which visas and institutions accept each, and how to choose the right one for your goal.
Two different tests
PTE Academic assesses academic English for university admission and student visas. PTE Core assesses general English for economic immigration, principally to Canada. The task types differ, the content differs, and results from one are not accepted in place of the other.
Which one your destination requires
Canadian economic immigration programs including Express Entry accept PTE Core. University admission and student visas in Australia, the UK, New Zealand and Canada generally require PTE Academic. Check the specific programme requirement before booking — this is an expensive mistake to discover afterwards.
How the scores are used
PTE Academic scores are usually compared against an overall threshold with a per-skill floor, or against per-skill migration thresholds. PTE Core scores convert to Canadian Language Benchmark levels per skill, and those drive CRS language points.
Frequently asked questions
Related pages
- PTE Core to CLB ConverterConvert PTE Core scores to Canadian Language Benchmark levels per skill. See the CLB level that drives your Express Entry CRS language points.
- PTE Core Score for Express EntryThe PTE Core scores Express Entry requires, mapped to Canadian Language Benchmark levels per skill and to your CRS language points.