Is it Possible to Cheat in the PTE Exam?

Given the increased competition and an aim to achieve a higher score, it is natural to wonder: Is it possible to cheat in the PTE exam? If you are planning to appear for the exam, you must have decided to immigrate to one of the English-speaking countries for study or work purposes. However, the anxiety of scoring high might make you wonder if you could cheat in the PTE Exam!

If you are thinking about this possibility, then you are not the only one. However, PTE has implemented advanced security features to prevent malpractice. From biometric data collection to AI-driven monitoring, the test environment is designed to detect suspicious behavior both at physical centers and during online exams.

Is it Possible to Cheat in the PTE Exam?

The short answer is no, there is no way to cheat on the PTE exam. Pearson uses advanced algorithms, AI-based proctoring, and real-time monitoring to prevent you from cheating in the PTE exam. There is no possibility of cheating on the PTE test because of active security procedures. 

• Strict ID Verification

The management authority has made it necessary for each applicant to carry and exhibit a valid passport when taking the PTE exam. Despite the fact that there are other government-approved forms of identification, such as a driver’s license, an Aadhar card, and others, a candidate’s identity is only regarded as valid with a passport.

• Palm Vein Biometric Scanning

The palm of your hand is scanned at the PTE center and saved in their database for future admittance. This will add an additional layer of security to your evidence of identification. For example, if you take your 10-minute break at the beginning of the Listening portion, when you return from the break, you must scan the palm of your hand and show your passport to the test supervisor before proceeding with the rest of your PTE exam.

• Signature by Voice

Your voice signature, which is captured at the commencement of your Speaking part in the form of a Personal Introduction, is the third security component. This voice sample is delivered with your PTE Score Card to any organization with which you choose to share your score.

• Additional Security Measures

Upon entering the PTE exam facility, all applicants are stripped of their digital gadgets (mobile phones, tablets, digital watches), aesthetic items (wrist watches, rings, necklaces), and writing implements. Your passport is the only thing you can bring with you to the computer room.

Common Myth and Reality for Cheating in the PTE Exam

There are many myths which you might have heard about cheating in the PTE exam. It is quite natural to believe them as you are anxious about the test. However, you need to understand if these statements are true and get familiar with the reality. Below are some of the myths and reality of cheating in the PTE exam.

1. Myth 1: I Can Send Someone to Take the Test for Me.

You must complete various methods of identity checks, including:  

• Verification of government-provided identification.  
• Recognition through video capture as well as photo taking.  
• Providing digital signatures.  
• Scanning palm veins at certain locations.

2. Myth 2: I Can Use Other Software During the Exam.

In the PTE Exam, facial recognition works continuously during the exam. Any discrepancy or suspicious actions will lead to instant cancellation and a lifetime ban.  All test centers prohibit personal items. You will be flagged for disqualification and failure violation if you attempt to: 

• Use another tab 
• Look away repeatedly 
• Use hidden devices  

3. Myth 3 : I Can Refer to the Answer Keys of the PTE Exam Online.

Pearson tests are based on adaptive testing technology which means you would receive different questions from other individuals. Questions are curated from previous responses given by participants.  Even if someone tries to disseminate “real” questions, chances are low that they will appear in your test due to Pearson’s regular updates on their question bank.

4. Myth 4: I Can Use AI to Write or Speak.

PTE has trained systems with AI algorithms which would help identify robotic answers with uniformity and lack of natural sounds, such as voice intonation patterns, speech, and rhythmical delivery, which AI tools tend to distort badly when replicating.  Writing over-polished answers can score poorly, especially if they stand out.

What Activities are Considered Rule Violations?

The PTE Academic Test Taker Handbook contains, but is not limited to:

• Bringing unapproved objects into the testing room.
• Before the test, jot down ideas on a noticeboard.
• Using the locker during the break.
• Using the phone during the break.
• Leaving the testing facility during a break.
• Conversing with other test takers in the testing room.
• During a break, converse with other test takers.
• Having someone else take the exam on your behalf.

What Enforcement Steps Can the PTE Security Team Take?

If the PTE security staff discovers any evidence or catches you in an act that indicates malpractice or maladministration, they will take strict steps against the relevant candidate in order to maintain the integrity of the PTE Academic qualification. Furthermore, the authorities can adopt a variety of actions/punishments to prevent the likelihood of additional malpractice or maladministration, such as:

• Revocation of a test taker’s score
• Preventing a test taker from retaking the test.
• Taking action against the Test Administrator in charge.
• Suspending the Test Center until we are satisfied that the Test Center has completed the corrective action plan.
• Taking action against the Test Center, which may include, in some situations, cancelling the Test Center’s contract entirely.

Therefore, be careful about your steps and prepare yourself so that you don’t have to take unfair steps while preparing for your PTE Training.

Alternatives to Cheating in the PTE Exam

Instead of cheating in the PTE exam and focusing on the myth and reality, you can include smart alternatives to succeed. Rather than risking your future by cheating, you can include the following tips, which would help you to get the desired scores.

• You can take an official practice test which would help you understand the types and categories of questions and how to answer them under pressure within a time limit.
• You can also join a PTE program where you can get help from qualified trainers. These would provide personalized sessions that will be quite useful in boosting your speaking and writing scores through real-time feedback.
• Improve your pronunciation and fluency by listening to different accents and shadowing them, record yourself speaking on various topics. With daily practice, you will feel confident and build the skills.
• Understand the format and the scoring system to ensure precise performance. Such parameters would guide you to score more as you would attempt the questions appropriately.
• Practice on a regular basis and note the progress level so that you can consistently work on the areas of improvement.

With diligent practice, you can crack the PTE exam and get the scores instead of opting for cheating in the PTE exam. By familiarizing yourself with the myth and reality, you would make a better decision which will help you build your communication skills. So, make a study plan and start with your progress.

Also Check: 

• PTE Training: The Key to Acing the Exam
• How to Improve PTE Speaking score
• PTE Exam Dates – City Wise PTE Exam Dates
• PTE Score Chart – Score Calculation and Conversion
• Negative Marking in PTE