If you want to study abroad, a good grasp of English is essential, and you’ll need to submit your score from an English language proficiency exam. Many universities abroad use PTE (Pearson Test of English) exam scores to ensure that students are proficient in English.
In 2022, the number of PTE test takers worldwide increased by 90% and India was a key contributor to this growth. Currently, about 700,000 Indians migrate abroad for higher education annually, and a large number of them opt for the PTE exam as proof of English proficiency.
In this guide, we discuss every aspect of the PTE Academic examination.
What is the PTE exam?
The PTE exam is a computer-based English language proficiency test. It has been designed for non-native English speakers who want to study or work in English-speaking countries.
The two-hour-long exam assesses the candidates’ reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities.
PTE results are accepted in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland. In all, the test results are recognized in over 70 countries. According to Pearson, the body that conducts this test, PTE scores are accepted in more than 3,300 universities including Oxford, Harvard, and Yale.
PTE full form
The full form of PTE is ‘Pearson Test of English’. Pearson is a multinational corporation that specializes in educational publishing and performs test assessment services.
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is one of their flagship products considered by many to be at par with TOEFL and IELTS.
It is used not only for admission to universities but also for immigration to English speaking countries.
In fact, there are three types of PTE tests:
- PTE Academic: Ideal for university and college admissions, visa applications to Australia and New Zealand, and professional registration. PTE Academic is also recognized by U.S. state Boards of Nursing for work visas.
- PTE Core: A general English test recognized by the Canadian government for immigration and citizenship applications.
- UK Visa Tests: Includes PTE Home tests and PTE Academic UKVI for UK visa applications to work, join family, and settle.
In this guide, we focus on the PTE Academic test.
What is the PTE test on paper?
The PTE test is entirely computer-based. This means there is no paper-based version available. The test is designed to be taken on a computer to ensure consistency, accuracy, and fairness in assessing your English language skills. So, if you’re preparing for the PTE, make sure you’re comfortable with using a computer.
PTE exam eligibility 2024
There are no strict academic qualifications required for the PTE exam (as of 2024). However, here are the key points regarding PTE eligibility:
Age
There is no age restriction to take the PTE exam. Candidates under 18 must have a signed consent form from a guardian before taking the test. This form is available on the official PTE website.
Education
There is no specific educational requirement for the test but completing secondary education is generally recommended to understand the test format and syllabus.
Language proficiency
Since the purpose of the PTE is to assess English skills, you need to have a basic understanding of the language.
Computer proficiency
Since the PTE is a computer-based test, basic computer skills are essential, so you should be comfortable using a computer to navigate through the test.
PTE exam fee 2024
PTE test fee in India is ₹17,000, which includes 18% GST. The PTE test fees can be paid online when you register for the exam.
Scoring method and validity
PTE uses the Global Scale of English (GSE) for scoring. The test score ranges from 10 to 90. The 80-point scale provides students with a complete assessment of their English proficiency.
The PTE scale assesses English language proficiency across several skill areas, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
What is the GSE scale?
GSE is a framework for scoring English proficiency designed by Pearson. According to the company, GSE is better than other assessment frameworks like the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). GSE scale is the result of extensive global research and provides deep insights into learners’ abilities.
In the next section, we look at the PTE test format.
Must Read: Study Abroad Guide for Indian Students [Updated 2024]
Syllabus and exam pattern
The PTE exam has three main sections—Speaking & Writing, Reading and Listening. Each section is designed to assess different aspects of the English language. Here is a detailed look.
- In the Speaking & Writing section, candidates demonstrate their proficiency in spoken and written English through various tasks. These include a personal introduction, reading aloud, and essay writing.
- The Reading section evaluates comprehension skills through various tasks like multiple-choice questions, reordering paragraphs, and filling in blanks.
- Lastly, the Listening section challenges test-takers with exercises like summarizing spoken texts, answering multiple-choice questions, and dictation.
Here is a detailed table outlining the structure of the PTE exam.
| Section | Skills Assessed | Time | Total Questions | Question Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speaking & Writing | Evaluation of the candidate’s ability to produce spoken and written English in the context of academic settings | 54-67 minutes | Total questions – 28 to 36 | · Personal Introduction
· Read Aloud · Repeat Sentence · Describe Image · Re-tell Lecture · Answer Short Question · Summarize Written Text · Essay |
| Reading | Assessment of the candidate’s comprehension of written English texts of varying complexity and subject matter | 29-30 minutes | Total questions – 13 to 18 | · Reading and Writing fill in the blanks
· Multiple choice, Multiple Answer · Re-order Paragraphs · Fill in the Blanks · Multiple Choice, Single Answer |
| Listening | Evaluation of the candidate’s ability to understand spoken English in diverse contexts and accents | 30-43 minutes | Total questions – 12 to 20 | · Summarize spoken text
· Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer · Fill in the Blanks · Highlight Correct Summary · Multiple Choice, Single Answer · Select Missing Word · Highlight Incorrect Words · Write from Dictation |
Also Read: Latest PTE Test Pattern [Updated 2024]
How to apply for PTE exams?
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is available globally through a network of over 450 test centers.
There are 62 test centers in India, located across all major cities. This widespread presence makes it easier to take the test no matter where you are located.
To apply for the PTE 2024 exams, follow these steps:
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Visit the official PTE website
Start by heading to the official Pearson PTE website: https://www.pearsonpte.com/
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Create a MyPTE account
Click on the “Sign Up” button and create a new account with Pearson.
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Log in and set up your profile
Once you have an account, log in and complete your profile information. This includes details like your name, and contact information.
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Complete booking questions
Before booking your test, answer a few questions about your intended use of the PTE score (e.g., study, work, visa application).
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Find your preferred test appointment
Use the search function to find a test center convenient for you. You can filter by location and date availability.
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Select date and time
Choose a date and time slot that works for your schedule.
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Review and confirm booking details
Double-check all your information, including test center, date, time, and personal details.
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Make payment and finalize booking
Pay the exam fee using a secure online payment method. PTE test fee in India is ₹17,000 including GST.
This finalizes your PTE exam booking.
ID requirements
Make sure you know the acceptable forms of identification you need to bring to the test center. Pearson prefers a valid passport as ID proof. Other official IDs might be acceptable but are subject to change.
Also Read: All Important Dates for PTE in 2024
PTE exam preparation 2024
Preparing for the PTE exam in 2024? Here’s a comprehensive guide with tips, tricks, and insights:
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Understand the exam format and scoring
Your first task is to familiarize yourself with the three sections (Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening). You have to also know about the different question types within each section.
The official PTE site has all the relevant details and scoring criteria for each section.
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Set your target score
You need to aim for a score that aligns with your desired outcome (e.g., university admission or visa application). Research the average score requirements for your specific goals.
Here is an indicative mapping of different score ranges to what they imply about a candidate’s English-language proficiency:
- PTE Score Band: 85-90: Indicates exceptional English proficiency.
- PTE Score Band: 76-84: Shows very high proficiency
- PTE Score Band: 59-75: Demonstrates the ability to communicate clearly about various topics
- PTE Score Band: 43-58 – Shows proficiency in basic communication
Note: Many universities and colleges abroad typically require a minimum score of 59-75.
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Identify your weaknesses and strengths
To assess your current proficiency in each section, consider a PTE practice test. This will help you understand your strengths and weaknesses and streamline your preparation.
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Develop a study plan
Create a structured plan with dedicated study and practice time for each section. Allocate sufficient time for PTE practice tests and take them regularly to gauge your improvement.
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Focus on specific skills
You have to brush up on basic grammar rules, sentence structure, and punctuation to ensure your writing is perfect. Use techniques such as flashcards and mnemonics to memorize better. Also, practice reading a lot of academic texts. Summarizing key points from these texts will further improve your ability to understand and retain information.
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Time management
Practice managing your time effectively within each section. You must develop strategies to answer questions quickly and efficiently.
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Resource selection
You can subscribe to Pearson PTE Preparation Packages. They offer a comprehensive selection of preparation resources.
PTE preparation packages
But don’t worry if you are on a tight budget. There is a plethora of free PTE academic materials available online to supplement your study plan.
Here is a list of free resources:
- Free test from Pearson
- E2 PTE YouTube channel
- PTE Success
Also Read: Understanding Your PTE Score: Result, How to Check, Validity & More
So, if you’re preparing for the PTE exam for 2024, keep these points in mind. The test is challenging but you can still ace it if you prepare in an organized way. We hope this guide helped you understand what the PTE exam is and its format.
Note: When you prepare for the PTE, you will also need to prepare a shortlist of the universities you’re most interested in. This helps you understand the target PTE score you need to aim for. Of course, the PTE score is just one of many criteria you will use to shortlist your universities. So, how can you create a shortlist of universities based on so many factors? The answer is SelectRight.
Here’s why.
SelectRight helps you find the best program for you by using AI to match you with top programs.
Once you register on SelectRight and create your profile, the AI algorithm that powers the portal will match your profile to the best universities and programs that fit your specified criteria. SelectrRight searches through 40,000+ programs from 4,000+ universities, and avoids programs that banks may not fund. This increases your chances of getting into a good program.
Also, at a later stage in your study-abroad journey, once you’ve applied to the university, you’ll need a suitable education loan. For that, you can use FundRight.
FundRight makes getting an education loan simpler by connecting you with lenders in India and abroad. Lenders bid to give you competitive loan offers, and you can receive these offers in just two days. Students have been able to save up to ₹23 lakhs in interest expenditure over the repayment period of their loans taken via FundRight.
Next, let’s find out the answers to some frequently asked questions about the PTE exam.
Also Read: How To Prepare For PTE in 2024 (Complete Strategy)
FAQs about PTE exam
How many times are PTE tests held each year?
The PTE (Pearson Test of English) exam is held several times each month. When you book the test, you will be shown a list of days with empty slots.
Can I cancel or reschedule my PTE exam?
Yes, you can reschedule your PTE exam up to seven calendar days before the test date. However, you might have to pay extra fees for rescheduling the exam.
What is the validity of PTE scores?
PTE scores are valid for two years from the date of the test. After this period, the scores expire.
How do I send my PTE scores to institutions?
You can send your PTE scores to institutions by logging into your PTE account and selecting the relevant institutions during the registration process.
