The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a computer-based English language proficiency test designed to assess the skills of non-native English speakers who wish to study, work, or migrate to an English-speaking country. Like the IELTS, it is widely accepted by universities, employers, and immigration authorities. Here’s a detailed overview of everything about PTE:
What is PTE?
- PTE (Pearson Test of English) is an international English language proficiency test. It is entirely computer-based and uses artificial intelligence to grade responses.
- The test assesses four key skills: Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
- PTE is recognized by universities, colleges, and governments around the world, particularly in Australia, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand.
Why Take PTE?
- Fast Results: Results are available in as little as 48 hours, making it ideal for students or professionals who need quick test results for visa or university applications.
- Flexible Scheduling: PTE is available on-demand, and test dates can be booked at short notice.
- Computer-Based: The entire test is done on a computer, which eliminates the possibility of human bias in grading.
- AI-Driven: With artificial intelligence, the grading system is objective and consistent across all test takers.
Where is PTE Accepted?
PTE is accepted by:
- Over 3,000 universities worldwide, including top universities like Harvard, Yale, INSEAD, and Oxford.
- Government agencies for visa and immigration purposes in countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK.
Types of PTE
PTE has two main types, depending on the purpose of the test:
PTE Academic
- Designed for those who wish to study at English-speaking institutions, apply for student visas, or seek employment where English language proficiency is needed.
- Widely Accepted: PTE Academic is accepted by thousands of educational institutions worldwide and for visa applications in countries like Australia and New Zealand.
PTE General (Formerly Pearson Test of English General)
- Primarily used for assessing general English proficiency and not commonly used for visa or university applications.
- Often taken by those who want to assess their overall English skills for career progression or language development.
PTE Format
PTE tests are fully computer-based and are completed within 3 hours. The test structure consists of three parts:
Part 1: Speaking and Writing (77 – 93 minutes)
- Personal Introduction: You are required to give a brief introduction about yourself.
- Read Aloud: You read a text aloud from the screen.
- Repeat Sentence: You listen to a sentence and repeat it.
- Describe Image: You are shown an image and asked to describe it.
- Re-tell Lecture: You listen to or watch a lecture and summarize what you understood.
- Answer Short Questions: You answer brief questions based on prompts.
- Summarize Written Text: You read a text and write a summary in one sentence.
- Essay: You write a 200-300 word essay on a given topic.
Part 2: Reading (32 – 40 minutes)
- Reading and Writing Fill in the Blanks: You fill in the blanks in a given text.
- Multiple-Choice, Choose Single Answer: You answer questions based on a reading passage.
- Multiple-Choice, Choose Multiple Answers: You answer multiple questions based on a passage.
- Re-order Paragraphs: You rearrange jumbled text into logical paragraphs.
- Reading Fill in the Blanks: You complete the passage by filling in missing words.
Part 3: Listening (45 – 57 minutes)
- Summarize Spoken Text: You listen to a passage and summarize it.
- Multiple-Choice, Choose Multiple Answers: You answer questions based on an audio clip.
- Fill in the Blanks: You fill in the missing words from an audio recording.
- Highlight Correct Summary: You select the summary that best matches the audio.
- Multiple-Choice, Choose Single Answer: You answer questions based on an audio recording.
- Select Missing Word: You choose the correct word to complete the audio.
- Highlight Incorrect Words: You identify incorrect words in a transcript.
- Write from Dictation: You listen to a sentence and write it down word-for-word.
Scoring System
- PTE uses machine scoring powered by artificial intelligence, ensuring objective and accurate grading. Each section is scored on a scale from 10 to 90.
- You will receive an overall score (10-90) based on your performance in all four skills (Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening).
- Scores are usually available within 48 hours of taking the test.
| PTE Score | Proficiency Level |
|---|---|
| 85 – 90 | Expert |
| 76 – 84 | Very Good |
| 59 – 75 | Good |
| 43 – 58 | Competent |
| 30 – 42 | Modest |
| 10 – 29 | Limited |
Minimum PTE Score Requirements by Country
| Country | Study (PTE Academic) | Work (PTE General) | Migration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | 50 – 65 | 50 – 65 | 50 (Skilled Migration) |
| Canada | 55 – 65 | 50 – 65 | 50 (For Express Entry) |
| New Zealand | 50 – 58 | 50 – 65 | 58 (Skilled Migrant Visa) |
| United Kingdom | 55 – 65 | 50 – 65 | 43 – 50 (Tier 2, Skilled Worker) |
| United States | 55 – 70 | Not widely used | Not used for immigration |
PTE Test Fees
PTE test fees vary by country and test center location. Here’s an approximate range:
| Country | PTE Test Fee (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Australia | AUD 375 |
| Canada | CAD 300 |
| New Zealand | NZD 385 |
| United Kingdom | GBP 165 |
| United States | USD 210 |
| Bangladesh | BDT 19,500 – 21,000 |
Comparison of PTE with IELTS and TOEFL
| Test Feature | PTE | IELTS | TOEFL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test Format | Computer-based | Paper-based or Computer-based | Computer-based |
| Grading | AI-based, automated | Human examiners | Automated + Human |
| Test Duration | 3 hours | 2 hours 45 minutes | 3 hours |
| Result Time | Within 48 hours | 5-7 days | 6 days |
| Skills Assessed | Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening | Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening | Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening |
| Recognition | Accepted worldwide | Accepted worldwide | Accepted worldwide |
How to Prepare for PTE?
- Practice Tests: Pearson offers a variety of official PTE practice tests that simulate the actual exam experience. These can help familiarize you with the test format.
- Preparation Courses: Many language schools and online platforms offer PTE preparation courses, focusing on the strategies needed for each section.
- Study Guides: Use official PTE study guides and practice materials to improve your performance.
- Time Management: Since PTE is time-bound, practicing under timed conditions will help improve your speed and accuracy.
How to Book the PTE Test?
- Create an Account: Visit the official PTE website and create an account.
- Choose a Test Date & Center: Select a convenient test date and location from the available options.
- Pay the Test Fee: Make the payment online through the available payment options.
- Confirmation: After payment, you will receive a confirmation email with test details.
- Test Day: Arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time. The entire test takes around 3 hours.