PTE

Overview

• Starting August 10, Canada will accept PTE Academic for SDS (Student Direct Stream) applications. The minimum PTE score required for Canada SDS is 60.

• The updated PTE Academic (Online & Offline) fee 2023 is ?15,900.

The PTE, or Pearson Test of English, is a popular English proficiency test accepted by the USA, UK, and Canada. Conducted by the Pearson PLC group, PTE is growing in popularity and is currently accepted by 74 countries around the world.

Like most English proficiency tests, PTE checks your English proficiency in four areas: Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing (clubbed as one section).

PTE’s fame comes from the convenience it offers the test takers. A fully-proctored PTE Academic test can be taken from home and is offered throughout the year. Another benefit for PTE test takers is that PTE results are announced in less than 48 hours.

PTE offers many exam variations, out of which PTE Academic is popular among international students moving abroad for studies, as it tests English on an academic level. PTE Academic costs ?15,900 in India.

Other types of PTE include PTE General and PTE UKVI. PTE General is designed to analyse your English skills in a general setting and is accepted by selected countries.

PTE UKVI, as the name suggests, is for visa and immigration purposes and not for academics. Under PTE UKVI, you also have PTE Home A1, PTE Home A2 and PTE Home B1 tests, mainly for family and settlement visas.

PTE Score

The PTE score chart provides a fair and definite way to measure English language skills. Your score is evaluated against the Global Scale of English, ranging from 10–90. This consistent approach to scoring reflects that universities and visa requirements can consider them confidently.

The PTE score chart provides a fair and definite way to measure English language skills. Your score is evaluated against the Global Scale of English, ranging from 10–90. This consistent approach to scoring reflects that universities and visa requirements can consider them confidently.

• Speaking & Writing

• Reading

• Listening

The scoring system of PTE is entirely automated, with no human interference. The responses are assessed based on correctness and incorrectness. Some questions are rated on formal elements and the response quality.

Here’s how you are scored:

Correct or Incorrect: You receive one point for each correct answer, with no negative marking for incorrect answers. Partial Credit: Tasks are assessed as correct, somewhat correct, or wrong using a system. For example, full points are awarded if your response to a task is accurate. If the answer is partially correct, some score points are awarded. and if the response is completely erroneous, no score is awarded.

Answers are assessed based on fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar.

PTE Exam Pattern

The PTE exam is divided into three sections (speaking & writing, reading, and listening). PTE Academic has now been shortened to 2 hours from the previous 2 hours and 45 minutes.

The PTE Academic exam consists of three sections.

• Reading

• Listening

• Speaking and Writing

These sections are curated with questions and tasks that analyse your proficiency in English for academic purposes. There is no fixed number of questions for any section.

PTE Pattern: Question Types

Take a look at the different question types for the PTE exam:

PTE Speaking and Writing Section

• Personal Introduction

• Read Aloud

• Repeat Sentence

• Describe Image

• Re-tell Lecture

• Answer Short Question

• Summarize Written Text

• Essay

PTE Reading Section

• Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks

• Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer

• Re-order Paragraphs

• Fill in the Blanks

• Multiple Choice, Single Answer

PTE Listening Section

• Summarize Spoken Text

• Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers

• Fill in the Blanks

• Highlight Correct Summary

• Multiple Choice, Single Answer

• Select Missing Word

• Highlight Incorrect Words

• Write from Dictation

PTE Syllabus

The PTE Syllabus is designed to determine your ability to understand and communicate in English in various contexts, including global issues, academic motifs, and everyday conversations.

Each section of PTE assesses your English skills on different scales.

PTE Registration

The PTE registration is a simple and fast process and can be done from the comfort of your home. You can register for PTE Academic online, offline and UKVI tests on the official website of Pearson PTE with the following steps.

• Visit the official PTE website

• Choose a test

• Create your account

• Book your slot

• Pay the fees

Documents Required for PTE Registration

The main document necessary for PTE registration is a valid ID. You can use your updated and valid Indian passport to register.

A valid ID is mandatory on the exam day to enter the test centre.

PTE Test Centre

The PTE test can be administered in a test centre and at home.

To take the PTE Academic offline version, you must book a designated test centre in your preferred city. PTE exam centres are currently available in 35 cities across India, including major cities such as Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, and Noida.

PTE Academic Online can be taken from anywhere. Ensure you have a good internet connection, a functioning wired headset, and a microphone.

It is a fully proctored test that uses the exact test content, scoring and format as PTE Academic in a test centre.

PTE Slot Booking Tips

• PTE exam registration is available throughout the year.

• You can book your exam slots according to your preference.

• Book the slot 10-15 days in advance to secure a seat, as availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.

PTE Books

One of the most effective ways to prepare for the PTE exam is by using high-quality study materials, and sample papers and PTE practice books contain both of these.

PTE books are designed to help test-takers succeed. They offer a comprehensive exam overview, valuable tips, and strategies to help you score.

Top 3 PTE Books

• The Official Guide to PTE Academic

• Practice Tests Plus: PTE Academic

• Expert PTE Academic Coursebook

PTE Eligibility

PTE is open to individuals of all nationalities who wish to demonstrate their English language proficiency. Pearson has not placed any strict eligibility criteria as of such.

Below are some key points regarding PTE eligibility:

Nationality

• The PTE exam is open to students of all international students, who have to follow the same set of rules governing the exam. But, the exam may only be taken by candidates with valid and authentic identity proof documents.

Age Limit

• Anyone above the age of 16 years can appear for the PTE exam. However, if you’re aged between 16-18, you must submit a parental consent form in advance.

Education

• PTE Academic Board has not specified any specific eligibility criteria for the educational qualifications.
• It's important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the country, test centre, or institution where you plan to use the PTE scores.
• It's advisable to check with the official PTE website or the relevant test centre for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

PTE Sample Papers

• Valuable insights into the format and structure of the exam

• Awareness of the types of questions

• Understanding of time limits

• Acquaintance with the overall test layout

Moreover, practising with sample papers helps assess individual strengths and weaknesses, develop targeted study plans, improve time management skills, and build confidence.

What is the 3-second rule in PTE?

During the test, you will hear a short question, and then the recording status will change to recording. Start your answer as soon as the status changes happen. If you end up waiting for more than 3 seconds, the recording will stop, and the test status will change to 'completed', which means you have lost your chance to give your answer. So, if you need time to reflect on a question, use fillers like "well", "you see", and "actually" to keep the software going before you get the right flow.

Which part of PTE is toughest?

In general, the toughest part of the PTE can depend on your individual strengths and weaknesses. However, some people may find the speaking section the most challenging, requiring them to think quickly, speak clearly and coherently, and respond accurately to prompts. The speaking section of the PTE includes tasks such as reading aloud, repeating sentences, describing images, and answering short questions.

How many attempts are there for PTE?

There is no limit set by PTE as to how many times you can appear for their PTE Academic Exam. You are eligible to take your next exam within 5 days. So, candidates can take the PTE Academic exam as many times as they want. But there are other rules in place. For instance, you cannot book more than one date at a time. So if you booked a date for September, you cannot book another for your plan B as a backup date in October. You need to sit the first test and receive your score to book for another.

Is PTE better than IELTS?

The difficulty level of PTE compared to IELTS is subjective and varies from person to person. Some individuals may find PTE easier, while others may find IELTS more suitable for their abilities. It is recommended to research and assess the requirements of the institutions or organizations you are applying to determine which test is more appropriate for your needs.

What is the PTE exam for?

The PTE exam (Pearson Test of English) is an English language proficiency test designed to assess and measure your English language skills. The exam is widely used for academic and immigration purposes, especially for international students who wish to study or work in English-speaking countries. It is recognized by various universities, colleges, and governments worldwide as evidence of English language proficiency for academic admission, visa applications, and employment opportunities.

Does Canada accept PTE?

Canada accepts the PTE exam as it is recognized by over 3,000 universities worldwide. Most of Canada's top-ranking universities and colleges prefer PTE Academic, with a minimum PTE score of 50 (varies). Recently, the Canadian government has approved PTE Academic for SDS applications. In order to qualify for the SDS program, test takers must achieve an overall score of 60 in the PTE Academic test.

What is the minimum PTE requirement for the UK?

PTE is accepted by 99% of UK universities and for all UK visa and immigration applications. If you're applying to Master courses or Ph.D, you need a PTE score of over 59. And if you're applying for a course below degree level, you need 43 or higher.

Is PTE valid for PR?

Most of the nations including Australia, Singapore, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand, accept PTE scores. These PTE scores are accepted for getting PR, immigration and university admissions. PTE is a mandate for getting permanent residency in Australia and New Zealand.

Can we get a visa with PTE?

Yes, it is possible to use PTE Academic scores for visa applications in certain countries. However, note that PTE Academic online is not accepted for visas by any country currently. PTE Academic (offline) scores are widely accepted for visa purposes, including student visas, work visas, and immigration programs. However, the specific requirements may vary depending on the country and the type of visa you are applying for.

How is PTE score calculated?

The PTE score is calculated based on various factors. Each section of the test, including Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening, is scored individually. The scores are then used to calculate the overall PTE score on a scale of 10 to 90. The score reflects your English language proficiency level, with higher scores indicating a higher level of proficiency.

Is there a PTE exam on Sunday?

Yes, PTE exams are available on Sundays. Pearson, the organization that administers the PTE, offers test dates throughout the year, including weekends. However, note that test availability may vary depending on the test center and the region. It is best to check the official PTE website or contact the nearest test center to confirm the available test dates.

Is 56 a good score in PTE?

A score of 56 in PTE can be considered as a moderate score. PTE scores range from 10 to 90, with 90 being the highest achievable score. While 56 is not a bad score, it may not meet the requirements for certain visa applications or academic programs that have higher score thresholds. Scoring above 58 in PTE is ideal for university admissions and visa.