PTE Core Score and CRS Points for Express Entry

PTE Core scores earn Express Entry points in two steps: each skill score converts to a CLB level, and each CLB level earns a fixed number of CRS points. For your first official language (English), IRCC gives up to 34 points per skill without a spouse or partner, or up to 32 with one. Only PTE Core counts, not PTE Academic. Checked 2026-10-13 on the IRCC CRS criteria page and the IRCC language test page.

This page covers language points only. Age, education, work experience and skill transferability points are separate parts of the same grid.

Step 1: convert PTE Core to CLB

IRCC publishes the PTE Core to CLB ranges for each skill. We keep that table on one page only, so use the PTE Core to CLB table on our Canada guide and convert listening, reading, speaking and writing one by one. Then come back here for the points. If you are still choosing a test, the PTE or IELTS for Canada guide compares them, and which PTE test you need explains Core versus Academic.

Step 2: CLB to CRS points per skill (first official language)

Checked 2026-10-13, IRCC CRS criteria. Points apply to each of reading, writing, speaking and listening.

IRCC counts you as "without a spouse or partner" if your partner is not coming to Canada with you, or is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

Notice the jumps. Going from CLB 6 to CLB 7 adds 8 points per skill whether you are counted with or without a partner, and CLB 7 to CLB 8 adds 6 per skill. CLB 4 to CLB 5 adds nothing.

Worked example

A single applicant with no partner gets these PTE Core skill scores. We converted them using the table on the Canada guide.

Where to gain: reading 66 sits near the top of its CLB 7 range, so a few more points there would lift it to CLB 8 and add 6 points. Speaking 70 is in the lower half of its CLB 7 range, so it needs more work to reach CLB 8. Compare your own scores against the ranges before deciding which skill to retake.

Second official language

The grid also gives points for a second official language, which for an English test taker is French. Checked 2026-10-13: CLB or NCLC 5 or 6 earns 1 point per skill, 7 or 8 earns 3, and 9 or more earns 6, up to 24 points without a partner or 22 with one. PTE Core does not count towards this, because it tests English.

Checklist before you rely on the points

• Your result is from PTE Core, not PTE Academic.
• All four skills are converted separately. The points are added per skill, so one weak skill does not erase the others, but programme minimums still apply to every skill.
• The result is under 2 years old at profile completion and at application.
• You know whether you are counted with or without a partner.
• You also meet the minimum CLB for your programme. Those minimums are on the Canada guide.

Use the PTE eligibility checker to compare your scores with test requirements, and see universities if you are also planning study in Canada first. The PTE score requirements by country page lists other destinations.

Frequently asked questions

How many CRS points does PTE Core give?

The points come from your CLB level in each skill. For English as first official language, up to 34 per skill without a partner (136 total) and up to 32 per skill with one (128 total). Checked 2026-10-13.

Is PTE Academic accepted for Express Entry CRS points?

No. IRCC says you must take the PTE Core option. Checked 2026-10-13.

Do I get CRS points for CLB 4?

CLB 4 and 5 both earn 6 points per skill. Below CLB 4 earns none, and CLB 4 does not meet most programme minimums.

Does my spouse's language score change my language points?

Your own points differ slightly with or without a partner, as the table shows. Partner language points are in a separate part of the grid, not covered here.

Do PTE results expire for CRS purposes?

Results must be less than 2 years old when you complete your profile and when you apply. Checked 2026-10-13.