PTE also expanded as Pearson test of English is one of the most popular English Proficiency tests available for Nonnative speakers to study, work or settle abroad. Pearson PTE is conducted in various test centers globally and there are some Home editions too. The test comes in various forms such as PTE academic, PTE Core, PTE UKVI and PTE Home edition.
What is PTE Academic?
PTE Academic is Pearson Test of English Academic is a computer-based English language proficiency test designed to assess the readiness of non-native English speakers to participate in university-level English instruction. It evaluates four core skills—Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening—using real-life academic content. The test is known for its fast results, AI-based scoring, and unbiased assessment.
|
Heading |
Details |
|
PTE Full Form |
Pearson Test of English |
|
Conducting Body |
Pearson PLC Group |
|
Global Acceptance |
Accepted by 3,000+ institutions worldwide, including in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. Also accepted for visa purposes. |
|
Why PTE Academic |
- Fast results (within 2 days) |
Why Choose PTE Academic?
Choosing PTE Academic comes with a many advantages. First and foremost, it provides incredibly fast results—often within 48 hours—which is a game-changer for applicants working with tight deadlines. The test is entirely computerized and scored by AI, eliminating human bias. Additionally, the speaking section is recorded via a microphone rather than conducted face-to-face, which significantly reduces anxiety for many test-takers.
The test is also widely available with frequent test dates and numerous test centers across the globe. Test takers benefit from the flexibility to schedule or reschedule the exam according to their convenience. Moreover, PTE Academic allows you to send your scores to unlimited institutions at no extra cost, making it highly cost-effective.
PTE Academic Exam Highlights
PTE Academic exam lasts for approximately 2 hours. The test is conducted in Four sections: Speaking, writing, reading and listening. PTE speaking is the first section which has 5 types of questions. Followed by speaking is PTE writing, Reading and Listening. The scores of PTE test are given on a scale of 10- 90.
|
Feature |
Description |
|
Test Duration |
Approximately 2 hours |
|
Test Format |
Fully Computer-Based |
|
Scoring |
AI-Based, Score Range: 10 to 90 |
|
Results Time |
Typically within 48 hours |
|
Test Centers |
300+ globally, including major Indian cities |
PTE Academic Exam Latest Updates 2025
- In 2025, PTE Academic continues its streamlined 2-hour test format, focusing on speed and convenience.
- A major development this year is the official recognition of PTE Core by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) for Canadian permanent residency. This broadens the scope of PTE for immigration purposes, which previously included only academic and UKVI versions
-
PTE academic exam fees: Effective from March 1, 2025, the registration fee for both PTE Academic and PTE Core exams in India has been increased to ₹18,000, inclusive of taxes. Candidates who booked their exams before this date are not affected by this change.
- Pearson VUE, is expanding its network of PTE test centers across India. New centers have been established in cities like Ambala, Kurukshetra, Bathinda, Barnala, Anand, and Jammu, with plans to open additional centers to enhance accessibility for test-takers.
Types of PTE Exams
|
Exam Type |
Purpose |
|
PTE Academic |
Study abroad and visa applications |
|
PTE Academic UKVI |
For UK Visa and Immigration purposes |
|
PTE Home |
For UK family, settlement, and citizenship visas |
|
PTE Core (New) |
Accepted for Canadian PR (Permanent Residency) |
Each test type is tailored to specific immigration or educational requirements, ensuring that candidates can find the best fit for their goals.
Eligibility for PTE Academic
There are no formal academic requirements to take the PTE Academic test. However, the candidate should be at least 16 years old, and candidates under 18 years need to submit a parental consent form. Also, the exam requires the candidate to present a valid passport as proof of identity.
This open admissions policy opens up the PTE Academic test to a wide array of applicants, including high school graduates, university application applicants, and working individuals seeking international migration..
PTE Academic Registration Process
Registering for the PTE Academic is simple and can be completed in a few steps:
- Visit the official website: pearsonpte.com
- Create an account with your personal details
- Choose your preferred test type, center, and date
- Pay the exam fee through the available payment options
- Receive a confirmation email with test details
It is advisable to book the test at least 15 days in advance to secure your desired slot.
PTE Academic Exam Pattern
The PTE Academic test is divided into three main parts:
|
Section |
Duration |
Task Types |
|
Speaking & Writing |
54–67 mins |
Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, re tell lecture, Answer Short questions, Describe image, Essay, Summarize Written text. |
|
Reading |
29–30 mins |
Multiple Choice, Re-order Paragraphs, Fill Blanks |
|
Listening |
30–43 mins |
Summarize Spoken Text, Write from Dictation, etc. |
There are slight differences in the PTE test format of Academic and Core. The PTE Core focuses on Everyday English used in workplace and social situations, while PTE academic focuses on Academic English (lectures, academic vocabulary).
PTE Academic Syllabus
The PTE syllabus covers a wide range of tasks:
-
Speaking: Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Describe Image, Answer Short Question
-
Writing: Summarize Written Text, Write Essay (200–300 words)
-
Reading: Multiple Choice Questions (Single and Multiple answers), Re-order Paragraphs, Reading & Writing Fill in the Blanks
- Listening: Highlight Incorrect Words, Fill in the Blanks, Write from Dictation, Summarize Spoken Text
PTE Speaking
|
Task |
Description |
|
Personal Introduction |
A non-scored task where you introduce yourself. This recording is sent to institutions along with your score report. |
|
Read Aloud |
Read a short text displayed on the screen aloud. This assesses both reading and speaking skills, focusing on pronunciation and fluency. |
|
Repeat Sentence |
Listen to a sentence and repeat it exactly. This tests your listening and speaking abilities, emphasizing memory and pronunciation. |
|
Describe Image |
Describe an image (e.g., graph, chart, or diagram) displayed on the screen. This evaluates your ability to interpret and verbally explain visual information. |
|
Re-tell Lecture |
Listen to or watch a lecture and then summarize it in your own words. This assesses listening comprehension and speaking skills. |
|
Answer Short Question |
Listen to a question and respond with a single word or a few words. This tests your general knowledge and ability to understand and respond quickly. |
|
Summarize Written Text |
Read a passage and write a one-sentence summary capturing the main idea. This evaluates reading comprehension and writing skills, focusing on grammar and vocabulary. |
|
Essay |
Write a 200–300 word essay on a given topic. This assesses your ability to organize ideas and write coherently in academic English. |
PTE Reading (29–30 minutes)
PTE reading section measures your ability to understand written English in academic settings.
|
Task |
Description |
|
Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks |
A passage with missing words is presented. Choose the correct word from a drop-down list for each blank. This tests grammar and vocabulary in context. |
|
Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers |
Read a passage and answer a question by selecting more than one correct response. This assesses your ability to analyze and evaluate written text. |
|
Re-order Paragraphs |
Several text boxes appear in random order. Arrange them to form a coherent paragraph. This evaluates your understanding of the logical flow of information. |
|
Fill in the Blanks |
A passage with several blanks is presented. Drag and drop the correct words into each blank. This tests your understanding of context and vocabulary. |
|
Multiple Choice, Single Answer |
Read a passage and answer a question by selecting one correct response. This assesses your ability to understand the main idea or specific details. |
PTE Listening (30–43 minutes)
This section assesses your ability to understand spoken English in academic contexts.
|
Task |
Description |
|
Summarize Spoken Text |
Listen to a recording and write a 50–70 word summary. This evaluates listening comprehension and writing skills. |
|
Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers |
Listen to a recording and answer a question by selecting more than one correct response. This tests your ability to analyze and interpret spoken information. |
|
Fill in the Blanks |
A transcript with missing words is displayed. Listen to the recording and type the missing words. This assesses listening and writing skills, focusing on spelling and context. |
|
Highlight Correct Summary |
Listen to a recording and select the summary that best matches the recording. This evaluates your ability to comprehend and summarize spoken content. |
|
Multiple Choice, Single Answer |
Listen to a recording and answer a question by selecting one correct response. This tests your understanding of specific details or the main idea. |
|
Select Missing Word |
Listen to a recording with a missing word at the end, indicated by a beep. Choose the correct option to complete the recording. This assesses your ability to predict content based on context. |
|
Highlight Incorrect Words |
A transcript is displayed while you listen to a recording. Identify the words in the transcript that differ from what is spoken. This tests attention to detail and listening accuracy. |
|
Write from Dictation |
Listen to a sentence and type it exactly as you hear it. This assesses listening and writing skills, focusing on grammar, spelling, and punctuation. |
PTE Academic Scoring System
Scores range from 10 to 90 points and are broken into:
-
Communicative Skills: Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening
- Enabling Skills: Grammar, Vocabulary, Fluency, Pronunciation
Each question contributes to multiple skills, and the final score is a weighted average across all sections. AI scoring eliminates any human subjectivity.
PTE Academic Exam Fees
As of 2025, the PTE Academic exam fee in India is ₹18,000, inclusive of 18% GST. This fee applies to the following test types:
- PTE Academic
- PTE Academic Online
- PTE Academic UKVI
- PTE Core
For the PTE Home tests (A1, A2, B1), the fee is ₹15,284.
PTE Late Booking Fee
If you book your exam within 48 hours of the test date, a late booking fee of ₹850 is applicable, bringing the total to ₹18,850.
Rescheduling & Cancellation Policy
Rescheduling:
- More than 14 days before the test: No additional fee.
- 7–14 days before the test: 50% of the test fee.
- Less than 7 days before the test: No refund; full fee is forfeited.
Cancellation:
- More than 14 days before the test: Full refund.
- 7–14 days before the test: 50% refund.
- Less than 7 days before the test: No refund.
Payment Methods:
You can pay the PTE exam fee using:
- Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express
- Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard
- Net Banking: Available for select banks in India
PTE Exam Dates & Scheduling
PTE academic exam dates are flexible and available throughout the year often multiple times a week, and in many cities. You can choose a date and time that suits you—morning, afternoon, or evening slots are typically available depending on the test center.
PTE Test Centres
PTE is offered year-round, and candidates can usually find multiple sessions every week. You can book your test up to 24 hours in advance. Major Indian cities with test centers include:
- New Delhi
- Mumbai
- Chennai
- Bangalore
- Hyderabad
- Pune
- Ahmedabad
- Kolkata
Each test center is equipped with modern infrastructure to offer a smooth test experience.
PTE Result & Score Validity
One of the major benefits of the PTE Academic test is the speed at which results are delivered.
PTE Result Time: Typically within 48 hours after taking the test. In many cases, students receive their results within 24 hours. You will be notified by email once your scores are ready, and they will be available in your Pearson account dashboard.
PTE Validity: PTE Academic scores remain valid for 2 years from the date of the test. If you're planning to apply for universities, jobs, or visa processes, ensure your scores fall within this validity period.
Score Reports: PTE allows you to send your official scores to as many institutions as you like, without any extra charges.
Here’s what you should know:
-
Unlimited score sending: No cap on the number of institutions.
- Free of charge: Unlike some other tests, there are no additional fees.
Your official score report will be available in your Pearson account, and you can choose as many institutions as needed to send your scores at no extra cost.
PTE score chart 2025
Understanding how your performance translates on the PTE scale helps in setting preparation goals. Here's a simplified version of the PTE score comparison chart:
|
PTE Score |
Proficiency Level |
IELTS Band Equivalent |
|
85–90 |
Expert |
9.0 |
|
76–84 |
Very Good |
8.0–8.5 |
|
59–75 |
Good |
6.5–7.5 |
|
43–58 |
Competent |
5.5–6.0 |
|
30–42 |
Limited |
4.0–5.0 |
|
Below 30 |
Extremely Limited |
Below 4.0 |
Sending PTE Scores (Score Reporting)
Sending your PTE score is simple:
-
Log in to your Pearson account.
- Select the institution or organization.
- Click Send Scores.
Scores are directly reported to the institutions — no need for mailing or uploading separately.
Countries Accepting PTE Scores
PTE Academic is accepted globally. Some of the top destinations include:
-
Australia – for university admissions and all visa categories
-
Canada – accepted by several colleges and professional bodies
-
UK – recognized by over 98% of universities and UKVI
-
USA – accepted by thousands of institutions
-
New Zealand – accepted for study and migration
- Germany, Ireland, and more – increasingly popular
Also Read: PTE Accepting Countries and Universities
Best PTE Books and Resources
Here are some highly recommended books and online platforms:
Books:
-
The Official Guide to PTE Academic (Pearson)
-
PTE Academic Practice Tests Plus by Pearson
- Barron’s PTE Academic Test Prep
Online Resources:
-
Pearson Official Website (pte official website) – for practice tests and tutorials
-
PTE Tutorials – for daily practice
- E2Language and ApeUni – for structured learning and AI-based feedback
PTE vs Other English Tests (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
|
Feature |
PTE Academic |
IELTS |
TOEFL iBT |
|
Result Time |
24–48 hours |
3–5 days |
4–8 days |
|
Format |
Fully Computer-based |
Paper & Computer |
Internet-based |
|
Speaking Assessment |
AI-based |
Face-to-face/Recorded |
Human-evaluated |
|
Score Range |
10–90 |
0–9 bands |
0–120 |
|
Score Sending |
Unlimited & Free |
Limited & Paid |
Limited & Paid |
How to Prepare for PTE Academic
To ace the PTE preparation, a strategic plan is essential. Follow this step-by-step approach:
-
Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with all four modules – Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening.
-
Take a Mock Test: Diagnose your strengths and weaknesses.
-
Focus on Skills: Work on vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, and time management.
- Use Scored Practice Tests: These simulate the actual test and provide realistic feedback.
Top PTE Academic Preparation Tips
-
Practice Daily: Even 30 minutes a day can lead to significant improvement.
-
Master Templates: Learn speaking and writing templates for quick responses.
-
Record Yourself: Listen to your speaking practice to improve pronunciation and fluency.
-
Time Yourself: Practice under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
- Use AI Tools: Platforms like ApeUni and E2Language provide instant scoring and feedback.
Difference between PTE core and academic
The PTE Academic and PTE Core are both English proficiency tests offered by Pearson, but they serve different purposes. PTE Academic is designed for individuals applying to universities, colleges, and for student visas, assessing academic English skills such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing. It is widely accepted by educational institutions around the world. On the other hand, PTE Core focuses more on everyday communication and is used for immigration purposes, particularly for countries like Canada. It tests real-world English language proficiency through listening, speaking, reading, and writing tasks, but with a focus on workplace and social situations.
|
Feature |
PTE Academic |
PTE Core |
|
Purpose |
Study abroad, student visas |
Work and immigration, especially for Canada |
|
Accepted By |
Universities, colleges, some immigration offices |
IRCC (Canada’s immigration body) |
|
Structure |
Four skills: Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening |
Same 4 skills, but some task types differ |
|
Test Content |
Academic tasks: lectures, summaries, formal writing |
Workplace & real-life tasks: emails, social scenarios |
|
Test Format |
Fully computer-based, AI-scored |
Fully computer-based, AI-scored |
|
Test Duration |
~2 hours |
~2 hours |
|
Result Time |
Within 48 hours |
Within 48 hours |
|
Scoring |
10–90 scale |
10–90 scale |
Conclusion
PTE Academic remains one of the most efficient and globally accepted English proficiency tests in 2025. With quick results, 2-year score validity, unlimited free score reporting, and AI-evaluated speaking, it's a top choice for students and professionals. Whether you're aiming for migration, study abroad, or work visas, thorough preparation and the right resources can make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is PTE exam?
A. PTE exam is a computer-based English proficiency test used for studying, working, or migrating abroad. It assesses your Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening skills.
Q. Is PTE easier than IELTS?
A. PTE is considered easier by some because it is computer-based and uses AI scoring, making it more predictable. However, difficulty depends on individual strengths in language skills.
Q. Is PTE accepted in Germany?
A. Yes, many universities in Germany accept PTE Academic for English language proficiency. Always check the specific university’s requirements before applying.
Q. Is PTE accepted in Canada?
A. Yes, PTE Academic is accepted by several Canadian institutions, and PTE Core is approved for immigration and permanent residency by IRCC.
Q. Is PTE accepted in USA?
A. Yes, PTE Academic is widely accepted by universities and colleges across the USA, including Ivy League institutions.
Q. Is PTE accepted in Australia?
A. Yes, PTE Academic is accepted for study, work, and migration purposes in Australia by all major institutions and the Australian government.
Q. Is PTE accepted in New Zealand?
A. Yes, PTE Academic is accepted for student visas, skilled migration, and permanent residency in New Zealand.
Q. What is the PTE exam pattern?
A. The PTE exam pattern includes four sections: Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening. The test lasts about 2 hours and is fully computer-based.
Q. What is the PTE full form?
A. The PTE full form is Pearson Test of English.
Q. Which is the recommended PTE exam book?
A. The most popular PTE exam book is The Official Guide to PTE Academic by Pearson, which includes practice questions and tips.
Other Comprehensive Guides for Similar Exam:
Learn about university intakes from major countries.
