The Ultimate Guide to Acing the PTE English Test
Overview
What is PTE?
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is an assessment of English language proficiency for those seeking to study or immigrate internationally. The PTE exam has two types: PTE General and PTE Academic.
PTE General
The Pearson English International Certificate, also referred to as PTE General, is an assessment of four language skills – reading, listening, speaking and writing. Although it is often utilised to assess individuals’ proficiency in the English language for educational and occupational purposes, this certificate is not accepted as proof of competency when immigrating.
PTE Academic
PTE Academic is a computer-based English language assessment used for academic study and immigration purposes. With its AI technology, this test promises to be an objective and unbiased means of evaluation - unlike more traditional methods. PTE has completely automated the grading process, without any possibility of human subjectivity influencing it.
PTE Overview
To demonstrate your English language proficiency for all Australian visa applications, consider taking the PTE Academic exam. This test is accepted by all Australian universities for admission, as well as by professional associations and state government departments for work and migration purposes.
What is PTE?
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is an assessment of English language proficiency for those seeking to study or immigrate internationally. The PTE exam has two types: PTE General and PTE Academic.
PTE General
The Pearson English International Certificate, also referred to as PTE General, is an assessment of four language skills – reading, listening, speaking and writing. Although it is often utilised to assess individuals’ proficiency in the English language for educational and occupational purposes, this certificate is not accepted as proof of competency when immigrating.
PTE Academic
PTE Academic is a computer-based English language assessment used for academic study and immigration purposes. With its AI technology, this test promises to be an objective and unbiased means of evaluation - unlike more traditional methods. PTE has completely automated the grading process, without any possibility of human subjectivity influencing it.
What is the PTE Academic Test Format?
The PTE Academic exam is accepted by universities worldwide such as Harvard Business School, INSEAD, and Yale. It can also be used for visa purposes within Australia and New Zealand.
The PTE Academic evaluates the ability of candidates to communicate effectively in English in an academic setting, by assessing their speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills. The exam format includes 20 different question types, which measure the candidates' speaking and writing skills (54 – 67 minutes), reading skills (29 – 30 minutes), and listening skills (30 – 43 minutes) to determine their readiness for studying abroad.
PTE Academic Test Fees
The fee for taking the PTE Academic test is 410 AUD.
Why is PTE Academic better than other English exams?
- PTE’s machine-based scoring system delivers accurate, swift, and impartial results.
- PTE is a pioneering, fully-computerised English assessment test.
- PTE assesses International English, without being confined to British or American English.
- Plenty of practice tests are available to ensure maximum confidence on test day.
- Test centres are convenient and welcoming.
- You have the option to send your scores as many times as you like, at no additional cost.
PTE Exam Cancellation Fees
- If a candidate cannot take the examination on the scheduled date, they are eligible for a full refund if they cancel 14 calendar days before their test date.
- If a candidate cancels their registration seven calendar days before the actual test date, they will receive a 50% refund.
- Candidates who cancel their test registration less than 7 calendar days before the exam will not be refunded.
PTE Exam Rescheduling Fees
- Candidates who reschedule their test date 14 calendar days before their actual test date will not be charged for the new test date.
- Candidates who reschedule the test 13-8 calendar days before the actual test date must pay 50% of the new test date rescheduling fee.
- Candidates who reschedule their exam date less than 7 calendar days before the actual test date must pay the full exam fee.
How do I reschedule the PTE?
To reschedule a Pearson test, follow these steps:
- Navigate to www.pearsonpte.com.
- Sign in to your My PTE account.
- Select the Reschedule or Cancel button.
PTE Exam Registration and Account Registration
To register for the PTE exam, follow these steps:
- Create a web account on the official PTE Academic Website or log in to an existing account.
- When you create an account, carefully fill in all of the details, including your passport information.
- Following that, you can select the most convenient test location, date, and time for you.
- After filling out all of the information, you can proceed with the payment.
- Once the payment is made, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt.
What is the PTE Academic Test Format?
| Band score | Skill Level | Description |
| 9 | Expert user | The test taker demonstrates a thorough mastery of the language, displaying appropriate, accurate, and fluent usage, indicating a full understanding. |
| 8 | Very good user | The test taker demonstrates a strong command of the language, with occasional inaccuracies and inappropriate usage, primarily in unfamiliar situations. They may struggle with some complexity, but they handle detailed argumentation effectively. |
| 7 | Good user | The test taker demonstrates a proficient understanding of the language, with some occasional inaccuracies or misunderstandings in certain situations. They are able to effectively navigate complex language and comprehend detailed reasoning. |
| 6 | Competent user | The test taker shows a strong command of the language, despite occasional inaccuracies, improper usage, or misunderstandings. They are able to effectively use and understand complex language, particularly in familiar contexts. |
| 5 | Modest user | The test taker has a limited understanding of the language and can generally convey the overall meaning in most situations, though they may make many errors. They should be able to handle basic communication within their specific field. |
| 4 | Limited user | The test taker's proficiency is limited to familiar situations. They often encounter difficulties in understanding and expressing themselves. They lack the ability to use complex language. |
| 3 | Extremely limited user | The test taker can only convey and understand the general meaning in very familiar situations. There are often communication difficulties. |
| 2 | Intermittent user | The test taker experiences significant challenges in understanding spoken and written English. |
| 1 | Non-user | The test taker has no proficiency in the language beyond a small number of isolated words. |
| 0 | Did not attempt the test | The test taker did not provide any answers to the questions. |
PTE Academic Test Fees
Why is PTE Academic better than other English exams?
- PTE’s machine-based scoring system delivers accurate, swift, and impartial results.
- PTE is a pioneering, fully-computerised English assessment test.
- PTE assesses International English, without being confined to British or American English.
- Plenty of practice tests are available to ensure maximum confidence on test day.
- Test centres are convenient and welcoming.
- You have the option to send your scores as many times as you like, at no additional cost.
PTE Preparation
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Tips for PTE exam preparation:
- Whether you choose to attend a PTE coaching center or study independently, it is essential to maintain consistent effort.
- There are various online resources available to aid in your preparation.
- In addition to online resources, you can also utilise coursebooks.
- It's crucial to start preparing well in advance, instead of waiting until the exam approaches. The earlier you begin, the more likely you will succeed on the exam.
PTE Preparation Timeline
With dedicated practice, it typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to prepare for the PTE exam.
Frequently asked questions
There is no specific eligibility criteria to take the PTE exam.
