Universities that use English as their primary language for teaching and training require standardized English test scores to screen applicants globally. Administered by the Pearson PLC Group, the Pearson Test of English – Academic (commonly known as PTE Academic, PTE-A, or simply the PTE exam) is a widely trusted English proficiency test among Indian students seeking admission to universities abroad.

The PTE exam offers different versions tailored to meet the diverse needs of test-takers, whether for studying or immigrating abroad. For students planning to study internationally, the PTE Academic test is the most suitable option.

With recognition from over 3,500 universities and colleges worldwide, Pearson PTE-A scores are also accepted for work, professional registration, and migration visa applications in Australia and New Zealand. The PTE exam assesses a candidate’s speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills within a single two-hour session. This exam page provides comprehensive information on the PTE Academic, accessible on the “My PTE” portal using individual PTE login credentials.

PTE Exam 2024: Key Details

• Exam Name: PTE Academic
• Full Form: Pearson Test of English
• Official Website: https://www.pearsonpte.com/pte-academic
• Login Link: https://id.mypte.pearsonpte.com/Account/Login
• Conducting Body: Pearson PLC Group
• Commonly Known As: English Language Proficiency Test
• Accepted By: Universities in the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand
• Exam Types: PTE Academic, PTE Academic Online, and PTE Academic UKVI
• Mode: Online, Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Exam Fee: INR 17,000
• Skills Assessed: Speaking, Writing, Listening, and Reading in English
• Helpline (India): 00080 0440 2020
  (Available Monday to Friday, 7 am – 9 pm; Saturday, 8 am – 2 pm; closed on Sundays and holidays)

What is the PTE Academic Exam?

The PTE Academic (PTE-A) is a computer-based English language test recognized by universities worldwide for admitting international students whose primary language is not English. Here are the key details about the Pearson PTE English test:

• Exam Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
• Focus of Syllabus: The PTE syllabus emphasizes practical, everyday English skills over advanced vocabulary, aiming to assess a student’s ability to communicate effectively in an academic setting.
• Exam Dates: Available year-round, with test slots bookable up to 24 hours in advance.
• Test Centers: India has 62 PTE test centers, each with high safety standards and a maximum of 15 seats per test room.
• Unique Scoring and Results: PTE-A differs from other English exams through its scoring and result system, with scores typically available on the ‘My PTE’ dashboard within two business days.
• Scoring Scale: Scores range from 10 to 90, using a multi-level grading system for a comprehensive view of language proficiency.
• Automated Scoring: An automated scoring system ensures accuracy, as it operates without human intervention, minimizing the chance of errors.
• Scorecard Submission: Candidates can send digital copies of their PTE scores to multiple universities and colleges free of charge.
• Score Validity: PTE scores are valid for two years from the test date.

PTE Full Form

The full form of PTE is the Pearson Test of English. Specifically, the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE-A) is a widely recognized English proficiency exam for students planning to study abroad. PTE Academic is accepted in over 70 countries, including popular destinations like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the USA, the UK, and Germany. Exam slots for PTE Academic can be booked through the “My PTE” portal.

Latest Updates for the PTE Academic Exam

Stay updated on the latest developments regarding the Pearson PTE Exam, especially for students planning to take the PTE Academic exam:

• PTE Exam Fee Update (February 2024): The PTE Academic exam fee has been updated to INR 17,000, inclusive of 18% tax. This consists of a base fee of INR 14,406.78 and an additional tax of INR 2,593.22 for Indian candidates.

• Launch of PTE Core Exam for Canada Immigration (2024): The newly introduced PTE Core exam is now recognized by the Canadian government (IRCC) for all economic visas, including permanent residency and citizenship applications.

• Partnership with University Living for Accommodation Support: Pearson, the administrator of the PTE Academic exam, has partnered with University Living (UL), a global student accommodation marketplace, to support Indian students with international accommodation, financial services, and logistics. This partnership offers exclusive discounts and benefits to PTE test-takers from India to ease their transition abroad.

Types of PTE Exams

The Pearson Language Tests, a division of the Pearson PLC Group, administers three types of English proficiency tests for non-native English speakers. These are PTE Academic, PTE Academic UKVI, PTE Home, and PTE Core. Here is a brief overview of each:

• PTE Academic: This test is available year-round for students seeking admission to universities or institutions in English-speaking countries. It assesses four skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. PTE Academic scores are valid for two years.

• PTE Academic UKVI: Approved by the UK Home Office, this Secure English Language Test (SELT) is required for UK visas needing a 4-skill language test. It is ideal for candidates aiming to work, study, or reside in the UK. The PTE Academic UKVI is identical in content and format to the PTE Academic, with slight variations in the registration process.

• PTE Home: Also approved by the UK Home Office, PTE Home serves as proof of English proficiency at CEFR Levels A1, A2, and B2, required for family or settlement visas. It includes PTE Home A1, PTE Home A2, and PTE Home B1, depending on the level needed.

• PTE Core: A general English test recognized by the Canadian government for immigration and citizenship applications.

Countries Accepting PTE Scores

PTE Academic scores are recognized by over 1,000 universities and governments globally for both study and work visas. Below is a list of countries that accept PTE scores:

• Europe: Over 33 countries
• Asia: China, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Uzbekistan, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam
• Middle East: Bahrain, Cyprus (North & South), Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, UAE
• Americas: USA, Canada, Argentina, Colombia, Brazil, Mexico
• Africa: Egypt, Libya, Nigeria, Somalia, South Africa, Uganda
• Oceania: Australia, New Zealand

Minimum PTE Scores Required for Study Visas in Different Countries

Here are the minimum PTE scores needed for study visa applications in various countries:

• United Kingdom: Equivalent to CEFR B1/B2 levels, typically a minimum score of 43-59
• Australia: Minimum score of 42
• New Zealand: Minimum score of 50 for undergraduate courses, 64 for postgraduate courses
• Canada: Minimum score of 59

PTE Academic Exam Eligibility

There are no strict eligibility criteria set by Pearson PLC Group for the PTE Academic exam. However, candidates should note the following requirements:

• Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 16 years old to take the PTE Academic test. Those under 18 need a signed parental consent form from a parent or guardian. This form can be downloaded from the official PTE Academic website.

• Educational Qualifications: Pearson PLC Group has not specified any minimum educational qualifications for candidates wishing to take the PTE Academic exam.

PTE Registration 2024

To book a slot for the PTE Academic exam, follow these steps by logging into the “My PTE” portal:

Steps to Register for PTE Academic:

1. Go to www.mypte.pearsonpte.com and create a free account.
2. After signing in, click on “Find Your Test” from the home screen.
3. Enter your country and purpose of visit (study abroad). Select PTE Academic as the appropriate test.
4. Click on “Book PTE Academic.”
5. Answer some booking questions regarding your primary language, data sharing preferences, ID policy, and purpose of the test (e.g., study).
6. Click “Next” to view the “PTE Policies” page, which includes exam day instructions, ID requirements, and policies for cancellations, rescheduling, and retakes. After agreeing to these, proceed to the “personvue” page to select your slot.
7. Search for a nearby location and choose a test center and time slot that works for you.
8. Pay the registration fee (INR 17,000), after which you’ll receive a confirmation email with the receipt and registration details.

PTE Academic Exam Slot Booking Conditions:

• Age Requirement: You must be over 18 years of age, or under 18 with a signed parental consent form.
• Account Policy: Only one “My PTE” account is allowed per candidate.
• Exam Policies: Follow all exam-day policies provided.

PTE Registration by Phone:

After registering on the My PTE portal, candidates can also register by phone. Indian students can contact the PTE Academic team at 00080 0440 2020 (Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm local time; closed on holidays).

PTE Exam Fee

The standard fee for the PTE Academic exam is Rs 17,000. If a candidate books their exam within 48 hours of the test date, a late booking fee will apply.

How to Cancel or Reschedule the PTE Exam?

If you wish to cancel or reschedule your PTE Academic exam, you can do so via the official PTE website. A refund is available if you cancel the exam at least 14 calendar days before the scheduled test date. You can reschedule your PTE exam to a different date either online or by phone. Below are the details on cancellation and rescheduling fees:

PTE Exam Cancellation Fees

• Full Refund: If you cancel the exam at least 14 calendar days before the test date, you are eligible for a full refund.
• Partial Refund (50%): If you cancel between 8 and 14 calendar days before the test date, you will receive a 50% refund.
• No Refund: No refund is provided for cancellations made less than 7 calendar days before the exam.

PTE Rescheduling Fees

• 50% Fee: If you reschedule the exam between 8 and 14 calendar days before the test date, you will need to pay 50% of the exam fee.
• No Refund: No rescheduling is allowed or refunded if done less than 7 calendar days before the exam.

Please note that the cancellation and rescheduling policies do not apply to the test date itself.

PTE Exam Dates 2024

The Pearson PTE exam is available throughout the year at designated PTE test centers across the country. The exam dates for 2024 may vary depending on the center. To find available slots, candidates can visit the Pearson PTE Academic website, select the nearest test center, and proceed to view the calendar for available dates.

PTE Exam Centers

Here is a list of PTE Academic test centers for candidates planning to take the PTE exam:

• Ahmedabad
• Bangalore
• Chandigarh
• Delhi/New Delhi
• Kerala (Cochin)
• Tamil Nadu (Coimbatore)
• Chennai
• Hyderabad
• Jalandhar
• Mumbai
• Ludhiana
• Kolkata
• Noida
• Patiala
• Pune
• Rajkot
• Vadodara
• Vijayawada
• Nagpur
• Haryana

PTE Test Accommodations / Special Arrangements

Pearson VUE offers special arrangements, or “reasonable adjustments,” to ensure that individuals with disabilities can take the test. Available accommodations include:

• A separate testing room
• Extra testing time
• A reader or recorder

How to Request Test Accommodations?

Candidates who require special arrangements must specify their needs and explain how their disability impacts their performance under standard conditions. Documentation of the disability is required, and the request should be made weeks before the exam booking to allow Pearson VUE sufficient time to arrange accommodations. Requests must be submitted before the exam is booked.

PTE Exam Pattern 2024

The PTE Academic syllabus consists of three main sections: Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening. Candidates are scored on each of these sections, and a total PTE Academic score is also provided. The detailed PTE Exam Pattern below outlines the components of the PTE Academic exam to help candidates understand the test format.

Note: The duration of the PTE exam has been reduced by 1 hour, and the total time for the exam is now 2 hours.

PTE Syllabus 2024

Understanding the Pearson PTE Academic syllabus is essential for candidates preparing for the exam. The PTE Academic is divided into three main sections: Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening. Below is a detailed breakdown of the syllabus for each section:

PTE Speaking and Writing Section

The Speaking and Writing section lasts between 54 and 67 minutes and includes the following types of questions:

• Personal Introduction
• Read Aloud
• Repeat Sentence
• Describe Image
• Re-tell Lecture
• Answer Short Question
• Summarize Written Text
• Essay

PTE Reading Section

The Reading section lasts for 29 to 30 minutes, with questions covering the following topics:

• Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks
• Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer
• Re-order Paragraphs
• Fill in the Blanks
• Multiple Choice, Single Answer

PTE Listening Section

The Listening section lasts for 30 to 43 minutes and includes the following question types:

• 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 Results and Scores

PTE results are typically available online within two business days of the test date. These results are accessible through your PTE Academic student account. You will first receive an email within five working days with instructions on how to access your results online. Afterward, you can log in to your Pearson account to view the scores. You can also share your results with the universities or colleges of your choice directly from your Pearson account.

The PTE Academic exam is scored on a scale of 10 to 90, with 10 being the lowest score, and increments of 1 point. The score reflects the candidate’s ability to read, speak, understand verbal instructions, and write in English. The results are displayed in a graph that provides an easy overview of the candidate’s strengths and areas for improvement in the language.

How to Access PTE Scores

Candidates can view their PTE scores through their online accounts. Upon the release of results, candidates will receive an email notification. To access your scores, simply log in to your Pearson VUE account, which was used to book the test.

How to Send PTE Score Reports

Candidates wishing to send their scores can do so through an online, secure portal provided by PTE. Note that universities do not accept paper or PDF copies of PTE Academic score reports.

Steps to Send Your PTE Score Report

1. Log in to your account.
2. Click on ‘View Score Reports’.
3. Select ‘Send Scores’.
4. Enter the name of your desired institution.
5. Review your details, then scroll down and click ‘Next’ and confirm by clicking ‘Next’ again.

Validity of PTE Test Scores

PTE Academic scores are valid for two years from the date of the exam.

How Many Times Can I Take the PTE Academic Exam?

There is no limit on the number of times you can take the PTE Academic exam. Candidates can retake the exam after a gap of just 5 days, so you can appear for the test as many times as you wish.

Rescoring the PTE Exam

If you’re dissatisfied with your PTE score, you can request a rescore. However, since the PTE Academic exam is computer-scored, the likelihood of an error is minimal. Only spoken responses and open-ended written responses are eligible for rescoring. You can only request a rescore for your most recent PTE exam, and this request must be made before scheduling another test or sending your score to an institution. If the score changes after rescoring, the new score will replace the previous one, and the updated score report will be issued.

PTE Exam Preparation Tips

PTE Study Material: Many students begin their preparation by either enrolling in a coaching center or taking free practice tests. However, like any exam, language proficiency tests require a strategic approach. It’s essential for students to utilize PTE mock tests, sample papers, and regularly check the official website for updates on the syllabus or exam pattern. Below are some key PTE study tips to help you excel in the PTE Academic Exam. However, it’s important to remember that no amount of tips, tricks, or tools can replace the value of dedicated and consistent practice. Focus on improving the skills listed below and practice them repeatedly to succeed.

PTE Online Course

Students preparing for the PTE Academic exam can now relax as the Pearson PLC Group offers various online courses tailored to improve language skills. Pearson has partnered with E2Language to offer a free online video course, and with Macquarie University for a six-hour course specifically designed to help you prepare for the speaking section of the PTE test.

Here’s what these two course providers offer:

E2Language: This 1-hour course provides a comprehensive understanding of the PTE Academic exam, covering its question types and exam pattern. It also helps candidates improve the skills needed for specific sections of the exam, offering strategies for answering questions, expert advice, and guidance on the next steps in preparation.

Macquarie University: This course focuses on preparing students for the speaking section of the PTE exam in a 6-hour session.

E2Language also offers additional paid courses for more comprehensive practice. The Pearson PLC Group collaborates with various course providers worldwide, and a full list of them can be found here: Pearson PTE Course Providers.

Best PTE Books and Resources

To prepare effectively for the PTE Academic exam, candidates can use a variety of official course books. Below are some of the best books and resources for PTE preparation. For a complete list of recommended materials, click here.

Top Books for PTE Preparation:

• Expert PTE Academic Coursebook B1 & B2: This series is one of the best resources for PTE preparation, especially for those with more time to study. The Expert course takes you through lessons designed to prepare you for the exam, available in both B1 and B2 levels depending on your language proficiency. The coursebook also provides access to MyEnglishLabs, a digital practice platform.

PTE Prep: Offline Practice Test: Candidates can opt to download the official Pearson PTE Academic test in PDF format from the official website, which allows them to practice offline and become more familiar with the exam format.

PTE Official Practice App: The PTE Official Practice App enables candidates to practice for their exam anytime, anywhere. Available on multiple platforms, this app provides a study planner, practice activities, and valuable test information, making it a convenient tool for on-the-go preparation.

Additionally, students can take PTE mock tests on the PTE preparation website by purchasing a subscription package that best suits their needs.

PTE Sample Paper

Practicing PTE Sample Papers is an effective way to prepare for the upcoming PTE Academic Exam. Candidates are encouraged to solve multiple PTE Practice Papers to improve their performance. The PTE Academic exam is designed to assess your everyday communication skills in English, not requiring advanced language proficiency but rather evaluating your ability to express yourself in regular English. It is recommended to practice each section of the exam with a relaxed and focused mind to absorb the content thoroughly and perform well.

PTE Exam Day Tips

Candidates preparing for the PTE Academic Exam should keep the following tips in mind for a smooth exam day experience:

• Breakfast: Do not skip breakfast. A moderately heavy meal will provide sustained energy for the exam. It is also advisable to carry a light snack or fruit to keep hunger at bay during the test.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes suitable for varying temperatures. Comfort is key during the exam.
• Arrival Time: Arrive at the test centre at least 30 minutes before your scheduled reporting time. This will help you avoid any last-minute stress.
• Identification: Bring a valid ID, preferably a passport, to the test centre for identity verification. For security reasons, your photo will be taken, and biometrics will be scanned during the verification process.
• Personal Belongings: There will be lockers available at the test centre to store your personal items such as electronics (e.g., watches, mobile phones), snacks, and bags.
• Test Room: After securing your belongings in the locker, you will be directed to the test room. Ensure that you do not carry any restricted items into the exam room.
• Breaks: You will be allowed a 10-minute break during the exam. After this break, you will need to return to the test room to continue.

What to Expect on Test Day?

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your test time to check in and clear security. Don’t forget to bring an acceptable ID, typically a passport, to ensure a smooth check-in process.

PTE Scholarships

There are numerous scholarships and educational loans available for students, which can make studying abroad more accessible. Many colleges offer scholarships, fellowships, and grants to deserving students, and these opportunities can be found on their official websites. Additionally, students can apply for education loans from financial institutions to support their studies abroad.