Pearson Test of English- Equivalency Chart

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Nadia comes from Uganda. Despite English as her first language she learned she needed to take an English exam to immigrate into Canada. Canada accepts three English test: IELTS General and PTE Core. Nadia is confused by the requirements. You need to get a certain CLB score. Nadia is more interested in the PTE Core. She wonders if there is a relationship between PTE and CLB scores. Nadia actually searches for an equivalency chart that compares the CLB and PTE scores.

PTE and other Language Tests for Immigration to Canada

You must pass a language exam if you plan to immigrate to Canada. The Canadian Immigration authorities accept the following tests at this time:

CELPIP: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (Only CELPIP General)
IELTSInternational English Language Testing System
PTE CorePearson Test of English
TEF Canada: Test d’évaluation de français
TCF Canada: Test de connaissance du français

The last two tests are only for those who speak French. If you wish to prove your English language proficiency, you must take the first three tests, CELPIP General or IELTS General or PTE Core.

What is PTE

PTE is the Pearson Test of English. Pearson PLC Group is the owner of PTE, an English language computer test for non-native speakers who want to study abroad or move to another country. PTE offers several assessments, but for immigration and employment in English-speaking nations the primary assessment is the PTE Core.

The PTE Core test comprehensively assesses individuals’ English language skills, covering speaking, writing, reading, and listening. PTE, unlike IELTS is completely computer-based and offers a fast, flexible, and efficient testing process. The results can be obtained within 48 hours.

The PTE Core is accepted by many academic institutions around the world and can also be used for visa and immigration purposes. Canada. Its precise, objective scoring system and the use of real-life language scenarios are designed to accurately reflect the test taker’s English language proficiency in an academic or professional environment.

Table of PTE band scores

A table that explains in detail the PTE Core score ranges will help clarify what each score represents regarding English language ability. Here’s an illustrative table that explains the capabilities of a test taker at various PTE Core score ranges:

PTE Core Score Range	Proficiency level	Description
86-90	Experts	The person is able to handle detailed arguments and complex arguments well. They can explain complex issues in a fluent and spontaneous manner without having to search for words.
83-85	Very Good	The person is able to handle complex and detailed arguments well. They are able to discuss complex issues with ease and spontaneity, and they can do so without searching for words.
74-82	Good	In some situations the person can use the language with some accuracy, but there may be misunderstandings, inaccuracies or inappropriateness. They can use and comprehend fairly complex language in familiar situations.
65-73	Competent	No real communication in English, other than a few isolated terms.
58-64	Modest	No real communication in English, other than a few isolated terms.
50-57	Limited	Basic competence is restricted to familiar situations. Has frequent difficulties in understanding and expressing themselves. Has difficulty understanding and expressing complex language.
42-49	Basic	Only understands and conveys general meanings in situations that are very familiar. Communication breaks down frequently.
36-41	Weak	It is difficult to understand spoken and written English.
30-35	Very Weak	Limited understanding of simple languages. Communication is difficult.
10-30	Extremely Limited	No real ability to speak English beyond a few isolated phrases.

This table can be used as a guide to interpret PTE Core scores. However, It’s important to remember that these descriptions are indicative, and actual communicative abilities can vary based on the individual and the context in which they use the language.

Immigration authorities do NOT consider your band score overall, but instead your scores for every ability.

What is CLB?

The Canadian Language Benchmark is also known as CLB. The Canadian government uses CLB to measure your level of English proficiency. The French language equivalent to CLB is the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC).

The CLB table

CLB provides scores between 1 and 12. The following table shows the meaning of each score. canada.ca).

Stage I – Basic Language Ability

Benchmarking Ability Level	Listening	Speaking	Reading	Writing
CLB 1 : Initial CLB 2 : Developing CLB 3: Adequate CLB 4: Fluent	Translation simple The four Competency Areas include spoken communication in routine and non-demanding contexts.	Create simple spoken language in routine, non demanding contexts of language usage within the four competency areas.	Interpreting simple written communications in routine, non demanding contexts of language usage within the four Competency Areas.	Create simple written communications in routine, non demanding contexts of language usage within the four competency areas.

Stage II – Intermediate Language Ability

Benchmarking Ability Level	Listening	Speaking	Reading	Writing
CLB 5 Initial CLB 6 : Developing CLB 7: Adequate CLB 8: Fluent	Interpreting moderately complex spoken language in contexts with moderately demanding language use.	Create moderately complex spoken communications in contexts of language usage that are moderately demanding within the four Competency Areas.	Interpretation of moderately complex written communications in contexts of language usage that are moderately demanding.	Create written communication that is moderately complex in contexts with moderately demanding language use.

Stage III – Advanced Language Ability

Benchmarking Ability Level	Listening	Speaking	Reading	Writing
CLB 9: Initial CLB 10 : Developing CLB 11 : Adequate CLB 12 : Fluent	Interpreting complex spoken language in demanding contexts within the four Competency Areas.	Create complex spoken communication within demanding contexts for language use in the four Competency Areas.	Interpreting complex written communications in demanding contexts requiring language use within the four Competency Areas.	Create complex written communications in demanding contexts involving language use within the four competency areas.

Table Core vs CLB

As you can see, PTE scores range between 10 and 90 to 12 while CLB levels range between 1 to 12. To find their equivalents, we must refer to reliable sources. I have used IRCC and PTE website to develop the CLB/PTE table.

CLB level	Reading	Writing	Listening	Speaking
10	88-90	90	89-90	89-90
9	78-87	88-89	82-88	84-88
8	69-77	79-87	71-81	76-83
7	60-68	69-78	60-70	68-75
6	51-59	60-68	50-59	59-67
5	42-50	51-59	39-49	51-58
4	33-41	41-50	28-38	42-50
3	24-32	32-40	18-27	34-41

While I have tried to avoid mistakes, this table is not the official conversion table. Consult with other sources as well. You may also consider reading the following articles: