PTE
What is PTE?
The PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic is an English language proficiency test used for study, work, and migration purposes. It evaluates a candidate’s speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills through a small test in friendly environment centre just for two hours .
The faster, fairer way to test your English
Single 2 - hour test with speedy results in 24 - 48 hours
Fair & Reliable Scoring with advanced AI & Human expertise
Fully computer-based test, taken in a certified test center
Flexible Test Dates: Available throughout the year.
Examines your academic English
Accepted Worldwide: Recognized by universities, governments, and organizations in countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, and the USA.
PTE Academic test format
Part 1: Speaking & Writing
This part will take between 54-67 minutes to complete
Part 2: Reading
This part will take around 30 minutes to complete
Part 3: Listening
This part will take approximately 30 minutes to complete
How to Prepare for the PTE Academic Test
To achieve a high score on the PTE Academic, you need a smart strategy. Here’s a step-by-step preparation plan:
1. Understand the Test Format
Speaking & Writing (54–67 minutes)
Speaking & Writing (54–67 minutes)
- Read Aloud
- Repeat Sentence
- Describe Image
- Retell Lecture
- Answer Short Questions
- Summarize Written Text
- Essay Writing
Reading (29–30 minutes)
Reading (29–30 minutes)
- Multiple Choice (Single & Multiple Answers)
- Reorder Paragraphs
- Fill in the Blanks
Listening (30–43 minutes)
Listening (30–43 minutes)
- Multiple Choice (Single & Multiple Answers)
- Reorder Paragraphs
- Fill in the Blanks
2. Take Mock Tests & Review Mistakes
- Simulate real test conditions by taking full-length practice tests.
- Analyze your mistakes and work on weak areas.
3. Build Your Skills for Each Section
Speaking & Writing
Practice Read Aloud & Repeat Sentence:
- Speak clearly, avoid long pauses, and maintain a natural tone.
Describe Images & Retell Lecture:
- Focus on key points, use structured sentences.
Essay Writing (20 mins):
- Use a clear introduction, body, and conclusion (200–300 words).
- Avoid grammar mistakes and use a variety of sentence structures.
Reading
Reorder Paragraphs:
- Identify the main idea and look for logical connections.
Fill in the Blanks:
- Improve your vocabulary and grammar for collocations.
Multiple Choice Questions:
- Skim the text first, then read the questions carefully.
🔹 Tip: Read English articles and practice speed reading daily.
Listening
Summarize Spoken Text:
- Focus on the main idea and key details.
Write from Dictation:
- Practice listening carefully and typing without spelling errors.
Highlight Incorrect Words:
- Improve your listening accuracy by focusing on pronunciation differences.
🔹 Tool: Listen to TED Talks, podcasts, or BBC News to improve listening skills.
4. Improve Your Time Management
- Time is limited, so practice pacing yourself.
- Tip: Use a stopwatch when practicing questions to build speed.
Academic performance scores
Each institution decides how to set the required score. Typically, you will need the following minimal scores—but always verify with your institution to be sure of what score you need:
Scores for studying
Each institution chooses how to set the score they require you to achieve. Typically, you will need the following minimum scores – but always check with your institution to be sure of what score you need
Foundation Courses
Minimum score of between 36-50
Undergraduate degrees
Minimum score of between 51-60
Postgraduate degrees
Minimum score of between 57-67
PTE Exam Types
Pearson Language exams, a division of the Pearson PLC Group, provides a variety of English proficiency exams meant to measure non-native speakers’ English language abilities. These tests cater to many demands, whether you’re applying for university entrance, a visa, or pursuing citizenship. They include:
PTE Academic
PTE Academic is designed for students seeking admission to universities or institutes in English-speaking nations. The format consists of four sections: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Frequency and Validity: Conducted throughout the year, with scores valid for two years.
Ideal for academic environments, study abroad programs, and career progression.
PTE Academic UKVI
PTE Academic UKVI is a Secure English Language Test (SELT) certified by the UK Home Office for visa applications requiring a four-skill language test.
Format: The material and structure are identical to the PTE Academic exam, but the registration process may alter significantly.
Ideal for: Candidates who want to work, study, or reside in the United Kingdom.
PTE Home Purpose:
This test, designed for family or settlement visa applicants, verifies that your English skills reach the required Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) levels.
Format: Available at three levels—PTE Home A1, PTE Home A2, and PTE Home B1—to accommodate differing competence standards.
Ideal for: Individuals applying for UK immigration who require specified language levels (A1, A2, or B1).
PTE Core
PTE Core is a general English test approved by the Canadian government for citizenship and immigration applications.
Ideal for those who need to demonstrate their general English competence for Canadian citizenship or immigration purposes.
Take your test anywhere in the world !
Take your PTE Academic test in one of over 475 test centers around the world. They run regular test days and often have last-minute availability – you can book as soon as tomorrow.
How the PTE Test is Conducted?
The PTE Academic test is conducted in a fully computerized environment at an official Pearson test center. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the test is conducted:
1. Registration & Check-in
- Time is limited, so practice pacing yourself.
- You must bring a valid passport as ID.
- Your photo, palm vein scan, and digital signature will be taken for security.
2. Test Setup
- You will be assigned a computer and noise-canceling headset.
- The entire test takes about 2 hours and is completed in one sitting.
3. Test Sections
Speaking & Writing (54–67 minutes)
- Speak into the microphone for speaking tasks.
- Type your responses for writing tasks.
Reading (29–30 minutes)
- Read texts on-screen and answer questions.
Listening (30–43 minutes)
- Listen to audio clips and respond accordingly.
4. AI-Based Evaluation
- Since the test is computer-based, your responses are scored by AI (no human examiners).
- This ensures unbiased and accurate grading.
5. Results & Score Report
- Results are available within 24–48 hours after the test.
- You can check your scores online and send them to universities for free.
How do PTE Academic scores relate to IELTS and TOEFL ?
Based on thorough study into the relationship between the PTE Academic test, the IELTS Academic test, and the TOEFL, the following comparison tables demonstrates how PTE scores compare to score bands from other test providers.
IELTS Comparison
| PTE Academic | 23 | 29 | 36 | 46 | 56 | 66 | 76 | 84 | 89 | N/A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | ← 4.5 → | ← 5.0 → | ← 5.5 → | ← 6.0 → | ← 6.5 → | ← 7.0 → | ← 7.5 → | ← 8.0 → | ← 8.5 → | ← 9.0 → |
TOEFL Comparison
| PTE Academic | 38 | 42 | 46 | 50 | 53 | 59 | 64 | 68 | 72 | 78 | 84 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 40-44 | 54-56 | 65-66 | 74-75 | 79-80 | 87-88 | 94 | 99-100 | 105 | 113 | 120 |
English tests without the stress
Study, work or live abroad with PTE
- Trusted by over 3,500 universities and colleges worldwide
- Accepted for visa applications to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK
- Computer-based tests with typically 48-hour turnaround for results
- Comprehensive preparation materials that equip you with the confidence to excel