PTE Exam: Types, Exam Format, Eligibility, Score Chart and More

The Pearson Test of English or simply PTE is a standardized test taken to assess an individual’s competency in the English language when they plan on moving to a major English-speaking country.

You may have an aim to study, work or reside in your favourite English-speaking nation for a motley of reasons. However, keeping everything aside, the most important criterion that comes your way is to appear for an assessment to judge your hold on the English language. The PTE exam aims at just that.

The PTE, or Pearson Test of English, is one of the most coveted standardised tests. Witnessing a surge in the number of applicants year after year, the PTE has been making a mark for itself as one of the most prominent exams among test takers.

It aims at assessing you on the basis of your command of the English language and how well of a communicator you are, which obviously is not restricted to speaking but also listening.

Apart from oral communication, it also evaluates the examinees on the parameters of written communication, thereby making a set of various subsets, including Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking subtests.

About the PTE Exam

The Pearson Test of English or PTE is a standardized test to assess an individual’s competency in the English language when they plan on moving to a major English-speaking country.

The PTE Academic is accepted by 3000+ universities, colleges and professional bodies worldwide, including prestigious institutes like Oxford University, Harvard Business School and Macquarie University.

PTE scores are also approved for all UK, Australian and New Zealand visa and immigration categories, making it one of the most popular English language competency tests globally.

Here are Some Important Points on the PTE Exam:

Types of PTE Academic Assessments

The PTE Academic assessment comes with two variants depending upon the nation one wants to march towards. The two types of PTE are:

• PTE Academic Exam
• PTE Academic UKVI

PTE Academic Exam

• The PTE Academic exam evaluates your English communication skills and its tasks are strategically structured across all the parameters of communication, i.e., Listening and speaking, Writing and Reading.
• The scores of the PTE Academic exam are accepted in various countries across the world and in a plethora of universities.
• Some countries even accept the scores for visa purposes, such as Australia, New Zealand, etc.

PTE Academic UKVI

• The PTE Academic UKVI and the PTE UK VISA and Immigration are for individuals looking forward to living, working, or studying in the UK.
• Hence, it is a Secure English Language Test (SELT) for you in case you fall under any of the aforementioned categories.
• Essentially, there is a minor difference between the PTE Academic and the PTE UKVI.
• The PTE UKVI has comparatively fewer test centres as compared to the PTE Academic exam.

Apart from the Academic assessments, there is also a type of PTE test for the General category. Please note that the evaluation methods for these exams vary. In the PTE General test, you compose a written paper and undergo a human interview. Conversely, the PTE Academic version is evaluated by the Algorithm for scoring purposes.

Difference between the PTE Academic and General Tests

Exam Format

The PTE is a computer-based test that assesses various aspects of an individual’s aptitude in the English language and consists of a specific Exam format.

The test is two hours long and consists of three parts: the Reading section, the Listening section and the combined Speaking and Writing section. There are 20 question types divided into these three sections. The type of questions range from multiple-choice questions to essay writing.

A candidate’s performance in the PTE exam is evaluated using sophisticated algorithms based on thousands upon thousands of real test responses helping the authorities to mark every single test consistently, accurately and fairly.

Read more on the PTE exam’s pattern here.

Given below are the types of questions included in each of the three parts of the PTE exam:

How is the PTE score calculated?

The PTE exam score is calculated automatically without any instructors since it uses an algorithm based on numerous previously graded sample questions. This speeds up the process aside from making it accurate and fair.

It is calculated as an overall score between 10 and 90 based on one’s performance in every task, not an average.

Breakdown of PTE Score Ranges

The table below gives a detailed breakdown of each score range as per the 2023 PTE score chart. Candidates can frame an average PTE band score chart concept respectively:

Important Points to Remember about the PTE Exam

• The format of the PTE exam has been updated since November 16, 2021, from a three-hour exam to a single two-hour test session.
• The results of the PTE exam are available to most of the test takes within 48 hours of taking the exam.
• Candidates can also sit for the PTE Academic Online which is a version of the PTE Academic test that individuals can take at home if they are unable to reach a test centre.
• PTE Academic Online is applicable for study applications only.
• The PTE is considered to be a less stressful exam as compared to other English language proficiency tests.
• An individual’s capabilities in the English language is tested with international standards in mind as opposed to British or American standards when it comes to the PTE Exam.

Acceptance of PTE Academic

• PTE Academic is one of the most popular and widely accepted exams for evaluating an immigration candidate’s command of English and determining whether that individual is eligible for immigration to an English-speaking country.
• The PTE Academic is accepted worldwide for study and immigration by numerous colleges and universities.
• Countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Singapore, Ireland and Germany require immigration candidates and potential international students to take the PTE as a mandatory part of their immigration process.
• There is also another variant of the PTE known as PTE UKVI, which is for individuals who wish to study below degree level or need a work visa in the United Kingdom.

Advantages of Taking the PTE Exam

Taking the PTE exam offers several advantages:

1. Flexible Test Dates: PTE exams are conducted multiple times a year, allowing test-takers to choose a date that suits their preparation timeline.
2. Quick Results: PTE results are typically available within 5 business days, enabling faster application processes for study or immigration.
3. Fair and Unbiased Scoring: PTE scores are computer-generated, ensuring impartial grading and eliminating human biases.
4. Versatility: Accepted by universities, colleges, and governments worldwide, PTE scores hold global recognition.
5. Varied Question Types: The PTE test assesses your English language skills through diverse question formats, enhancing your language proficiency across listening, reading, speaking, and writing domains.

In conclusion, the PTE exam offers a comprehensive assessment of language proficiency. Its distinct advantages, including flexible scheduling, quick results, and fair evaluation, make it a preferred choice for many. Whether you’re aiming to study abroad, work in an English-speaking country, or simply improve your language skills, the PTE exam provides an effective platform to showcase your abilities. For expert assistance, get in touch with our trainers to book a FREE trial today!

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FAQs

1. Can I take the PTE exam online?

Yes, you can take the PTE Academic Online, which allows you to take the test from the comfort of your home.

2. How soon can I get my PTE exam results?

PTE results are typically available within 5 business days, offering quick feedback on your performance.

3. Where are PTE scores accepted?

PTE Academic scores are accepted by thousands of universities, colleges, and institutions worldwide, including prestigious ones like Oxford and Harvard.

4. Can I retake the PTE exam if I’m not satisfied with my score?

Yes, you can retake the PTE exam as many times as you wish, but there must be a 5-day gap between attempts.

5. How do I prepare for the PTE exam?

You can prepare for the PTE exam through official study materials, practice tests, online courses, and coaching programs to enhance your skills and familiarity with the test format.