English proficiency test is one of the requirements to study abroad. So many international students choose to write IELTS while others settle for the Pearson Test of English.
If your choice of university accepts PTE test scores, this article is specifically written for you. It garners all relevant information on Pearson dates, the pattern of questions, and test fees. Want to take a Pearson English Language Test? You are definitely in the right place.
Pearson Test of English is just one among other English tests. As eligibility criteria to apply for most scholarships-Chevening scholarships, students must provide their test scores.
PTE Academic is a computer-based academic English language test aimed at non-native English speakers wanting to study abroad.
Pearson’s tests the proficiency of Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking of non-native speakers of the English Language who intend to study abroad.
The table of contents highlights all subtopics discussed in this article.
Table of contents
- About Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)
- What is the Nature of Pearson Test of English?
- What is Pearson English Schedule? Dates, Duration and Results
- How is PTE Graded?
- How Much is PTE Exam Fees?
- How Do I Register for Pearson Test of English?
- How Do I Send My Scores To Institutions?
- Amazing Secrets to Prepare for the PTE Academic test
- PTE Academic Test
- We Recommend
About Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)
The Pearson Language Tests is recognized worldwide as a language test used to validate the proficiency of non-native speakers of the English language.
There are several categories of the test. But for non-native speakers of English wishing to study abroad in English, the Pearson Test of English Academic is required.
The test is primarily designed to test the readiness of potential study abroad students to read, communicate, and comprehend tertiary-level English language.
The PTE Academic test is recognized as proof of proficiency in English by major schools and institutions worldwide. Some prestigious institutions include Harvard Business School, London School of Business, Yale University, and many institutes and Universities in France, Spain, Germany, and China.
The Australian Immigration department also recognizes the test for citizenship visa application to Australia.
READ ALSO: An Essay on Importance of English Language | Guide & Sample
What is the Nature of Pearson Test of English?
The test is a computer-based test focusing on the use of English generally found in higher institutions. Students are expected to be tested in a variety of English accents which they are likely to come across during their years as students.
In that respect, playback of audio recordings is used as a test for the candidates. Also included as part of the exam are audio recordings of the candidate speaking in English. This can be used as a form of biometric identification of the candidate by the University.
What is Pearson English Schedule? Dates, Duration and Results
Each test is not expected to last more than 3 hours
The tests are scheduled every day throughout the year. So students can come into the test center at any time and write the exam. This is one of the unique features of PTE Academic. There is no fixed timetable.
You write the exam when you are ready. Just go to the test center, register and take the test at your own convenience
The results are normally released 5 days after the test is taken. Again, this stands out as another unique selling point of the test as you don’t have to wait for a long time before you get the result. Candidates can easily check the score online.
PTE Test Pattern
At the PTE test center, candidates would be assigned a computer and a headset. Through the headset, the candidates would listen to questions, respond to questions and read texts displayed on the computer monitor.
There are three main sections
- Speaking and writing expected to last not more than 93 minutes
- Reading to last not more than 41 minutes and
- Listening to last not more than 57 minutes
Here is the PTE Academic paper pattern –
| Section | Duration | PTE Academic |
| Speaking & Writing | 77 – 93 minutes | Personal Introduction Read Aloud Repeat sentence Describe image Re-tell lecture Answer short question Summarize written text Essay (20mins) |
| Reading | 32 – 41 minutes | Fill in the blanks Multiple choice questions Re-order paragraphs Fill in the blanks Reading & writing: Fill in the blanks A 10-minute break is optional. |
| Listening | 45 – 57 minutes | Summarize spoken text Multiple choice questions Fill in the blanks Highlight the correct summary Multiple choices, choose single answer Select missing word Highlight incorrect words Write from dictation. |
How is PTE Graded?
Because computers grade PTE Academic tests, the scores are very reliable as errors from the human element aspect have been eliminated.
The scores are graded according to the Global Scale of English, an internationally accepted grading system. This grades your proficiency very accurately.
The final score reflects your performance in the overall test and is graded on a 10 – 90 sliding scale.
Each of the skills tested in the three sections is also graded the same way. This grading method has the advantage of quickly showing you your areas of strengths or weaknesses. This way, you know where to improve if you need to repeat the test.
To understand the PTE Academic grading and score in detail, you can download the Academic Score guide here.
How Much is PTE Exam Fees?
There are several test centers in cities in over 50 countries around the world. The nearest test center to your location can be found here.
The usual exam fee for the PTE Academic exam is $162.38 + 18% GST, or $191.61. If you book late for your exam, a subsequent booking costs $202.98. + 18% GST, which corresponds to $239.52.
The fees cover both registration and test fees. The fees vary from region to Gregson and depend on the accredited test centers. Information about fees to be paid can be obtained from the test center closest to your location.
How Do I Register for Pearson Test of English?
Registration for the test is done online only. Or you can call the call centers to help you register. The best option though is to register online at your test center. The staff there can then guide you if you encounter any problem.
Candidates must be at least 16 years old before they are allowed to take the test. 16 or 17-year-olds must obtain a consent letter from their parents or guardians. They must download, fill and return this form before they are allowed to take the test.
While filling out the registration form, make sure the name on the application form is the same on your ID. This is the ID to be used as identification on the test day. You won’t be allowed to take the test if the two names differ.
The accepted means of identification is your passport.
How Do I Send My Scores To Institutions?
To send your scores to your chosen institution, follow these steps:
- Sign in to your online account on the PTE Academic website
- Click on ‘Send Scores’ next to the test
- Search for the school you want to send the score to and select it
- Click ‘Next’ for a preview
- Click ‘Next’ again, then click ‘Confirm Order’ to send the score.
Note that you can send up to 7 scores at once to an unlimited number of institutions. An email will be sent to confirm that the scores have been sent.
Typically, it takes up to 48 hours for the institutions to receive your scores.
Amazing Secrets to Prepare for the PTE Academic test
Most test centers have preparatory classes for registration. Sometimes, the fee for the preparatory classes would be included as part of the registration fee.
Study materials and other aids would be provided by the test center.
PTE Academic Test
PTE Exam 2023
Many elements distinguish PTE Academic from its closest competitors – IELTS and TOEFL. The complete form of PTE is the Pearson English test.
The first and main distinguishing feature of the same is the evaluation model and the results. Because the tests are fully computerized, the results are usually communicated more quickly within five business days. This makes it ideal for busy students.
The three-hour computer test focuses on everyday English rather than high-level English. It checks the ability of the student to understand the language effectively and daily.
The multi-level scoring system provides a better understanding of students’ English language skills.