PTE Core Exam Structure
PTE Core is a new general English language proficiency test designed by Pearson for people who want to migrate to Canada. This test is accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as part of the language requirement for Permanent Residency (PR) applications and other immigration pathways.
Key Features of PTE Core
Computer-based test with AI scoring for fair, consistent results
Accepted by the Canadian government for PR and immigration
Fast results – typically within 1 to 2 days
Tests Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening in a 2-hour format
Real-world, non-academic content designed for work and everyday life
Available at test centers worldwide
PTE Core vs PTE Academic
Feature | PTE Core | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|
Purpose | Canada immigration (PR, Express Entry) | Study, work, or migration globally |
Accepted By | IRCC (Canada) | Universities, employers, immigration |
Test Content | General English (work, daily life) | Academic English |
Scoring System | 10–90 (AI scored) | 10–90 (AI scored) |
Test Length | Around 2 hours | Around 2 hours |
Best For | Migration to Canada | Study/work in Australia, UK, USA, etc. |
Speaking & Writing
1. Read Aloud
2. Repeat Sentence
3. Describe Image
4. Respond to a Situation (New)
Reading
1. Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks
2. Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
3. Re-order Paragraphs
4. Fill in the Blanks
Listening
1. Summarize Spoken Text
2. Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
3. Fill in the Blanks
4. Multiple Choice, Single Answer
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between PTE Academic and PTE Core?
What is PTE Exam Structure and Duration?
How is PTE exam scored?
What tasks are included in PTE Academic?
What tasks are included in PTE Core?
How long is the score valid?
Where can I book PTE Academic and PTE Core exams?
How much does the PTE exam cost?
How can I prepare for the PTE Exam?
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