How Much Score is an 8 Band in PTE?
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A score between 79 and 82 in PTE is considered equivalent to an 8 band in IELTS. In this blog, learn the PTE score equivalents and what they mean in terms of English proficiency, understand their importance, and get tips on how to achieve this score.
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Aside from the PTE (Pearson Test of English), the IELTS is the most widely used standardized exam that evaluates a non-native speaker’s English language proficiency. So, when you are aiming for international education, employment, or migration, English language proficiency tests like the PTE and the IELTS exam play a crucial role. However, candidates have multiple doubts, and among the frequently asked questions by PTE aspirants is ‘How much score is an 8 Band in PTE?’.
This blog will break it down for you through score interpretation and explain what an 8 band in PTE actually means for your immigration, university, or job goals.
How Much Score is an 8 Band in PTE: IELTS Band vs PTE Score Conversion Table
Unlike IELTS, which reports scores in bands (e.g., 6.5, 7.0, 8.0), the PTE exam gives a score on a scale of 10–90. Therefore, understanding what an ‘8 Band’ means in the context of PTE requires a band-score equivalence comparison and some insight into test formats and scoring methods.
To understand how much score is an 8 band in PTE, let us look at the official IELTS-PTE comparison table by Pearson:
IELTS Band Score |
Equivalent PTE Academic Score |
---|---|
9.0 |
89–90 |
8.5 |
83–85 |
8.0 |
79–82 |
7.5 |
73–78 |
7.0 |
65–72 |
6.5 |
58–64 |
6.0 |
50–57 |
5.5 |
42–49 |
Therefore, to achieve the equivalent of 8 in each band of the IELTS within the PTE test, one must obtain an average of 79 without any score less than 79 in any of the four skills. In order to learn more about the IELTS-PTE Concordance, check out the PTE Score Chart.
Skills Required for 8 Band Equivalent in PTE
Scoring the equivalent of an 8 IELTS band score in PTE means achieving a score of 79 or above in each of the four core modules: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. Unlike other English tests where you might balance a low score in one area with a higher score in another, PTE Academic evaluates your proficiency holistically and algorithmically, making consistent performance across all sections critical.
In the table below, you will find a detailed breakdown of what is expected in each module.
Section |
Target Score (for 8 Band) |
Key Skills Assessed |
---|---|---|
Speaking |
79–85 |
|
Writing |
79–85 |
|
Reading |
79–85 |
|
Listening |
79–85 |
|
What Does a PTE Score of 79–82 Mean?
Scoring 79 to 82 on the PTE Academic reflects a high level of English language proficiency that is widely recognised by governments, universities, and employers worldwide. This score range is considered a “Very Good” level of English on global CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference) standards.
However, the question remains: what does this score mean, or what does it tell about your English proficiency? Let us check the answer!
What Your Score Says About You?
A PTE score of 79+ indicates that you:
- Can understand complex texts and abstract ideas, even when expressed in subtle or nuanced ways
- Are capable of expressing yourself fluently, precisely, and spontaneously in both speech and writing
- Make minimal grammatical, lexical, or pronunciation errors, and self-correct naturally
- Are fully prepared to function in demanding academic, workplace, or immigration contexts where advanced English is required
This level of English proficiency not only reflects a strong command of the language but also qualifies you for competitive global opportunities.
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Why a PTE 79–82 Score Is Important?
Whether you are applying for immigration, study, or work, a PTE score in the 79–82 range can significantly enhance your prospects. Given below is a breakdown of where and why this score in your PTE results matters:
Purpose |
Required PTE Score (Approx.) |
Why is it important? |
---|---|---|
Australia PR (Permanent Residency) |
79+ (8 Band IELTS Equivalent) |
Gives you 20 immigration points under English proficiency |
Canada SDS Visa (Student Stream) |
60+ (Varies by institution/course) |
PTE now accepted since August 2023 under the SDS category |
UK Tier 4 Student Visa |
59+ |
Meets English language requirements for most degree-level programs |
US University Admissions |
65–79+ depending on university & course |
Required for competitive courses like MBA, Engineering, Law |
Healthcare Jobs Abroad (Nurses, Doctors) |
79+ or more |
Regulatory bodies demand high English standards for licensure |
Tips to Achieve 8 Band Score in PTE
Here are some quick, expert PTE exam preparation tips to boost your chances of hitting 79–82+ in PTE:
- Practice integrated questions: Focus on tasks, like PTE Summarize Spoken Text and Write from Dictation.
- Enhance pronunciation and fluency: Use apps like ELSA Speak or record your voice.
- Master time management: Use mock tests under timed conditions.
- Expand academic vocabulary: Read articles from BBC, The Economist, Nature.
- Use templates smartly: Especially for essay and summary questions, but don’t over-rely.
- Avoid empty answers: PTE penalizes no responses more than incorrect ones.
- Don’t skip: Answer everything — there is no negative marking in many tasks.
To sum it up, scoring a PTE 79–82, the equivalent of an IELTS 8 Band, is a milestone that opens doors to better immigration points, top universities, and competitive jobs worldwide. However, it demands strategy, precision, test-smart tactics, and consistent practice across all four skills, and not just English fluency. So, if you are targeting 79+ in PTE, understanding how the algorithm scores you, how integrated tasks work, and how to manage time under pressure is important to achieve the desired score and fulfil your dream.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is PTE 79 considered a good score?
How difficult is it to score 79 in PTE?/Is it easy to score 8 in PTE?
Which tasks are most important for scoring 79+ in PTE?
How long does it take to prepare for 79+ in PTE?
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