PTE Score for Canada: Guide for 2025

The Pearson Language Test, or the PTE, is a test that assesses a candidate’s proficiency in the language of English. PTE, like the IELTS or TOEFL tests, assesses candidates based on Reading, Writing and Listening. The candidates are marked on a scale of 10-90 where 10 is the lowest one can score, and 90 is the highest, equivalent to the IELTS band 9.0. Numerous students across the globe take the test to complete global university requirements and validate their english proficiency. This blog will look at the status of the minimum PTE scores,  provide advice on how to achieve the best PTE score for Canada, a  list of Canadian universities with the lowest PTE score, and tips on how to do well on the assessment.

Minimum PTE Score Requirements

The minimum PTE score for Canada and otherwise changes based on various reasons - different universities have different baselines, likewise, different courses also necessitate varying levels of English proficiency - high-level courses in English, engineering, law, psychology, sociology, and more may have higher PTE score expectations. If you wish to pursue a diploma in Canada, a minimum score of 45 is mandated. However, if you wish to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in the country, you need a minimum score of 50. It is crucial that one score at least 45 in each section to proceed. It is clear that you must maintain a good PTE score for Canada and Canadian education.

List of Canadian Universities with the Lowest PTE Requirements

Before you start applying to Canadian universities, it is recommended that you check out the minimum PTE requirements for each university. This helps you get more perspective on your chances of getting in and also helps you navigate through your strengths and weaknesses.

1. McGill University

QS World Ranking - #46

McGill University, situated in Montreal, Quebec, offers a minimum PTE score for Canada,  50 or above, to join its ranks. It is amongst the top universities in Canada that offers such a low PTE score cutoff. Montreal also happens to be one of the best cities to live in if you ever find yourself in the Great White North.

2. University of British Columbia 

QS World Ranking - #51

The University of British Columbia has one of the lowest PTE valid in Canada. The University offers a minimum of 50 PTE to its potential students.

3. McMaster University 

QS World Ranking - #152

This university in Hamilton, Ontario, is the perfect choice for students who have scored relatively low in their PTE. The minimum requirement for McMaster University is a score of 50.

4. University of Ottawa

QS World Ranking - #237

The University of Ottawa, Ontario, located in the capital of Canada too, has a minimum requirement of 50 for all its foreign students.

5. University of Calgary

QS World Ranking - #235

The University of Calgary is ranked 242nd in the QS World Rankings. Fortunately for global students, their PTE score is also a minimum of 50, making it an ideal destination for college education.

6. University of Waterloo

QS World Ranking - #154

Ranked 149 in the QS World Rankings, the University of Waterloo has a 50 PTE score requirement for admission for foreign students.

7. Western University

QS World Ranking - #173

Located in Ontario, Western University offers a minimum requirement of 50 PTE scores, along with all the necessary documentation, for admission into its programs. Therefore as long as you achieve a decent PTE score for Canada and Canadian standards, you are good to go. 

8. York University 

QS World Ranking - #456

 York University in Toronto, Ontario, is the fourth-largest university in Canada and has an acceptance rate of 62%. Therefore a PTE score of 50 puts you in a good place to get into its program.

9. Dalhousie University

QS World Ranking - #308

The University was developed in 1818 in Nova Scotia. With a QS World Ranking of 272, and an acceptance rate of 70%, the minimum of 50 in the PTE scores is an easy goal a student can set themself. 

10. University of Saskatchewan

QS World Ranking - #473

The University of Saskatchewan is in partnership with Oxford University. With an acceptance rate of 72% and employment rates of 82%, this university also offers a minimum of 50 in PTE. 

It comes as no surprise that Canada is one of the best student education destinations in the world.

Tips on How to Ace Your PTE

Like any other exam out there, anxieties run high. Do not stress. We will be listing out some tips you can adopt to ace your next PTE test!

1. Familiarize with the Test Format

 Recognise the format and PTE exam's speaking, writing, reading, and listening portions. You can better manage your time and prepare for each section if you know what to anticipate.

2. Practice regularly

The secret to developing your abilities is consistent practice. Set aside time each day to study specifically and focus on various exam parts. Use PTE-approved study guides or online sources that provide practice questions and simulated exams.

3. Develop your english

 Sounds obvious, we know. But reading books, newspapers, articles, and blogs in English regularly every day can vastly improve your vocabulary and comprehension. Not just reading, try incorporating TV shows, english podcasts, and movies into your daily schedule. 

4. Enhance your speaking skills

 focus deeply on your pronunciation and how certain words roll off your tongue. Listen back to whatever you say and focus especially on problem areas. Work on your pacing and timing when speaking. 

5. Enhance your writing skills 

 You can improve your essay-writing skills by methodically arranging your thoughts and cohering your ideas. Practise composing essays within the exam's time limit. Be mindful of your use of jargon, punctuation, and grammar. To remove errors, edit and proofread your content.

6. Time Management

 Allocate your time well in the duration of the exam. Practising by timing yourself with at-home mock tests can help you allocate your time during the assessment. 

Keep in mind that being prepared is essential for success on the PTE. You can develop your abilities and do well on the test with constant practice, perseverance, and a concentrated approach. Good fortune! Don't forget to checkout our blog on ultimate guide on preparing for PTE.

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How to Deal With Not Getting Your Desired PTE Score

Not doing well on a test or exam can become a source of great disappointment. However, one should see such events as opportunities for growth and learning. 

1. Take a break, reflect  

Take a break from studying and give yourself some time to deal with your feelings. Although it's normal to feel disappointed, try not to think about it for too long. Reflect on your preparation and test-taking experience to identify areas where you can improve.

2. Analyze your score report and identify areas to improve on 

Carefully review your PTE score report to understand your performance in each section. This will help you identify your strengths and the chinks in your armour. Go through the questions you answered incorrectly or struggled with. Understand why you made those mistakes and learn from your shortcomings. This analysis will help you identify patterns or areas that need improvement.

3. Practice Strategically

 Creating a study plan tailored to your specific needs can be a fruitful way for you to achieve success. After analysing problem areas, incorporate them into your study plan in such a way that you focus more of your energy on them. 

4. Stay Motivated 

Throughout your preparation, keep an optimistic attitude. Remind yourself of your objectives and the reasons you need a higher score. If you want to maintain motivation and keep moving forward, celebrate any tiny accomplishments you achieve along the way. 

5. Retake the Exam 

Bounce back stronger and attempt the exam once more. After preparing dutifully, approach this retake with confidence and smash all of your goals!

You can also read our blog on the ultimate guide on preparing for PTE.