Required IELTS/PTE/CELPIP Score for Canada PG Work Permit – Complete Guide by Globexa Immigration
Required IELTS/PTE/CELPIP Score for Canada PG Work Permit?
If you’re planning to study in Canada and build a career after graduation, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is one of the most important opportunities available to international students. However, a common question we get at Globexa Immigration is:
“What IELTS, PTE, or CELPIP score is required for the Canada PG Work Permit?”
In this detailed guide from the trusted experts at Globexa Immigration, we’ll clarify everything you need to know about:
Whether language tests are required for PGWP
When IELTS, PTE, or CELPIP is actually needed
How these tests impact your journey toward Canadian permanent residency (PR)
Pro tips for maximizing your immigration success
1. What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
The PGWP is an open work permit granted to international students who have completed an eligible program from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. This permit allows students to work in Canada and gain valuable experience that can support their journey to permanent residency (PR).
âś… Key PGWP Features:
Valid for up to 3 years (depending on your program length)
No job offer required to apply
Allows full-time work with any employer in Canada
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—can’t be renewed
At Globexa Immigration, we’ve helped hundreds of students successfully transition from study permits to PGWP, and eventually to PR.
2. Do You Need IELTS, PTE, or CELPIP for PGWP?
No, you do not need to submit IELTS, PTE, or CELPIP scores to apply for the PGWP.
That’s right! The Post-Graduation Work Permit does not require any language test. The fact that you studied in Canada in English (or French) is proof enough of your language ability for the PGWP.
Many students and parents are surprised to learn this, but it’s one of the biggest advantages of pursuing education in Canada.
3. When Are Language Tests Required?
While you don’t need language scores for the PGWP, there are several important stages where tests like IELTS, CELPIP, or PTE are absolutely essential.
Let’s break them down:
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🧾 1. Before You Arrive – For Your Study Permit
To get a Canadian Study Visa, you must prove your English proficiency to:
Get admission into a Canadian college/university
Qualify for a Study Permit from the Canadian High Commission
Accepted English Tests:
IELTS Academic (most preferred)
PTE Academic
TOEFL iBT
💡 Note: CELPIP is not accepted for study permits—it’s only used for immigration purposes.
Typical Minimum IELTS Academic Requirements:
Diploma Programs: 6.0 overall, with no band less than 5.5
Bachelor’s & PG Diplomas: 6.5 overall, with no band less than 6.0
At Globexa Immigration, we guide students through the entire admissions and visa process, including IELTS coaching and test booking.
🧾 2. After Graduation – For Permanent Residency (PR)
Once your studies are complete and you’re working on a PGWP, the next goal is usually PR. That’s when English language test scores become mandatory again.
Popular PR Pathways:
Express Entry (CEC, FSWP)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Atlantic Immigration Program
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
Accepted Language Tests for PR:
IELTS General Training
CELPIP General
PTE Core (now accepted by IRCC for PR)
4. Required Language Scores for PR in Canada
| Program | Minimum CLB | IELTS General | CELPIP General | PTE Core (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FSWP | CLB 7 | 6.0 in each band | Level 7 | ~60–65 |
| CEC (NOC 0/A) | CLB 7 | 6.0 in each band | Level 7 | ~60–65 |
| CEC (NOC B) | CLB 5 | L-5.0, R-4.0, W/S-5.0 | Level 5 | ~50–55 |
Globexa Immigration helps students and graduates prepare for these tests and choose the best immigration pathway based on their profile.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
âť“ Is IELTS required for PGWP in 2025?
     No. As of 2025, there is still no IELTS or other language test requirement for a Canada PGWP.
âť“ Can I apply for PGWP if my IELTS has expired?
     Yes. Since PGWP doesn’t require a language test, an expired IELTS score has no impact.
âť“ Which test is better for PR: IELTS, CELPIP, or PTE?
IELTS is most widely available
CELPIP is easier for some due to Canadian context
PTE Core is the newest but fully accepted now
Our expert consultants at Globexa Immigration Panipat will help you decide based on your strengths and goals.
6. Pro Tips from Globexa Immigration
Start early: Begin PR planning during your last semester of college.
Take IELTS General or CELPIP while you’re still on PGWP.
Choose jobs that match NOC 0, A, or B to increase PR eligibility.
Improve your CRS score with better language test scores, Canadian work experience, and education.
Use your PGWP years wisely—they are critical for gaining PR-qualifying experience.
7. Success Stories at Globexa Immigration
From students in Panipat, Karnal, and Hisar to those now living in Toronto and Vancouver—we’ve helped thousands of Indian students:
Secure admission in top Canadian colleges
Obtain successful study permits and PGWPs
Achieve permanent residency through Express Entry and PNPs
You could be next! 💼🎓
8. Why Choose Globexa Immigration?
âś… Best Immigration Services in Panipat and Haryana
âś… Trusted by over 5,000+ successful clients
âś… In-house coaching for IELTS, PTE, and CELPIP
âś… End-to-end support from college admission to PR
âś… Transparent, ethical, and student-focused guidance
Whether you are a student, parent, or a working professional, Globexa Immigration is your one-stop destination for all Canada visa and immigration needs.
