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PTE Overview

Written by  Rachit Agrawal

Reviewed by  Priyanka Bhargava

Published: Mon, September 30, 2019 9:30 AM IST  Updated: Mon, September 30, 2019 9:30 AM IST  9 mins read

PTE Overview

Written by  Rachit Agrawal

Reviewed by  Priyanka Bhargava

Published: Mon, Sep 30, 2019 9:30 AM IST  Updated: Mon, Sep 30, 2019 9:30 AM IST  9 mins read

PTE - 2022

Pearson English Tests (PTE) PTE Academic is a computer-based scholarly English language exam for non-native English speakers who desire to study in a foreign country. It assesses your ability to read, write, listen, and speak.  The PTE test lasts three hours and requires applicants to answer 130 questions. On a range of ten to ninety points, candidates will obtain a PTE score. Test takers must spend INR 13,700 (with GST) to complete the PTE exam, which provides results within 48 hours of completion.

The validity of PTE examinations is two years. PTE registration may be done online by making an account, filling out a profile, choosing a PTE test day and location, and depositing the PTE registration costs.

What is PTE?

The PTE Academic examination is a computer-based English language examination that is approved by universities all around the globe. PTE stands for Pearson Test of English in its complete form, and PTE-Academic is the English test taken by students and candidates who want to study or migrate to a major English-speaking nation.

To demonstrate their English language proficiency, students must take the PTE test. PTE Academic differs from other English proficiency examinations in several ways. The scoring structure and outcomes are the first and most distinctive features of the same.

Type of PTE exam

  1. PTE Academic: This exam may be taken at any time throughout the year, depending on the convenience and availability of the test taker. This exam style assesses the candidate's reading, composing, speaking, and listening abilities. The exam is given on a computer in a secure testing facility. The scores have a two-year validity period.
  2. PTE General: This exam is offered three times a year, in May, June, and December. PTE's official website has a list of possible dates. This exam has two components: a written paper and a spoken test, similar to an interview, in which both sections measure the test taker's reading, writing, speaking and listening abilities more realistically. The exam format includes six distinct competence levels that are used to assess and validate the test taker's basic English language ability. The result is valid for the rest of your life.
  3. PTE young learners: This exam is aimed at youngsters aged 6 to 13. It has a tale writing area, a photo-matching portion, a group speaking part, and a board game, among other things. It's a fun quiz. The result is applicable for the rest of your life.

PTE Highlights

Level of exam

Computer-based English language test 

Organising body

Pearson PLC Group

Types

PTE Academic, PTE Academic UKVI and PTE Home.

Popular for

popular among non-native hopefuls who want to study or work in another country

Modes of exams

Online

Fees

Rs. 13,300/-

Score range

10–90 on the Global Scale of English

Skills testing parameters

speaking and writing, reading, and listening

Test centres

Ahmadabad, Amritsar, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Chennai, Cochin, Coimbatore, Delhi, Gandhinagar, Gurugram

PTE exam eligibility

The following are the eligibility criteria to appear for the PTE Academic Exam:

  • The nationality of the candidate: Students from all around the world are allowed to take the PTE Academic test, which follows the same set of rules. The exam may only be taken by applicants who have a genuine, current, and legible identification verification document, according to the PTE official website (usually a passport).
  • The age of the candidate: Students above the age of 16 can take the PTE Academic test. On the official PTE website, there is no mention of an upper age limit. Candidates aged 16 to 18 must complete and submit a parental consent form ahead of time. The PTE Exam website has a parental consent form that may be downloaded.
  • Age limit: The College Board has not established a precise lower or higher limit for students taking the SAT exam. The sole condition set forth by the organizing organisation is that students taking the test have finished their high school education. The majority of those taking the SAT exam is between the ages of 17 and 19.
  • The educational qualifications of the candidate: There are no educational qualification qualifying standards specified by the PTE Academic Board. The only requirement for taking the test is that you can speak in English.

What is the difference between the PTE Academic and PTE General?

Basis of Distinction 

PTE Academic 

PTA General

VISA

Accepted for VISA applications

Not Accepted

Number of Tests

1

6 for each level

Duration of Test

3 hours

1.15-3 hours 

Type of Test 

Computer-based

Spoken Test and Communication between a test-taker and an interlocutor

Validity 

Two years 

Never expires

Purpose

Admission into an institution

Realistic communication skills testing

Why give the PTE exam?

The PTE is an entirely computer-based test that requires no human interaction at all. It is thought to be a fairly fair exam since it scores applicants using world-class AI skills. Additionally, your PTE results will be sent to you within five business days after the test date. If you need your Visa quickly and don't have time to take additional examinations, the PTE is the way to go.

Finally, if you do well on the PTE Academic, you may apply to top G8 institutions and continue your academic studies there. If you intend to immigrate, having a strong PTE score can help you gain more points.

Why is the PTE exam required?

Every question on the exam is meant to assess two abilities at the same time, such as reading and speaking or listening and reading. Experts believe that the Pearson Test of English test is more realistic, dependable, and simple. Candidates are scoring higher on their first or second attempts as a result of these variables. It has also simplified the PR procedure for those seeking a Permanent Resident Visa.

Where is the PTE exam required?

Thousands of academic institutions throughout the globe recognize the PTE Academic test.

Apart from that, the Australian and New Zealand governments recognise PTE Academic for visa reasons.

Those who want to enrol in a major English-speaking nation such as the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States, or Canada undertake the PTE Academic test to demonstrate their English language proficiency.

PTE updates 2022

  • Accepting the anguish Students and the overseas study sector have gained from COVID-19. The PTE test has been cut by one hour, and it now takes two hours to complete. PTE Academic will be reduced from three to two hours starting November 16, 2021.
  • Later this year, Pearson will introduce PTE Academic Online, a new online proctored alternative for those who wish to take the exam from the comfort of home.
  • PTE Academic Online registration is now available, with examinations beginning on January 11, 2022.

FAQs

Que. Which examination is better: IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL?

Ans. Each of the three tests Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking are the four characteristics used by IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL to assess your English language abilities. The main issue now is deciding which exam to take. It is critical to examine your needs or preferences before making any decisions.

Que. What does PTE Academic UKVI stand for?

Ans. The Secure English Language Test (SELT) PTE Academic UKVI has been authorized by the UK Home Office for all UK visas that necessitate a four-skills language test. It is a quick, fair, and practical option for individuals who want to work, study or reside in the United Kingdom.

Que. Is there an upper age restriction for taking the PTE Academic exam?

Ans. Candidates must be at least 16 years old to take the PTE Academic exam. Before taking the exam, candidates under the age of 18 must complete a parental permission form certified by either their parents or guardians.

Que. How many times can I take the test?

Ans. You can take PTE Academic as many times as you like. You must wait to receive your scores before you can book your next test.

About the Author & Expert

Avatar

Rachit Agrawal

author • MBA • 2 years

Rachit believes in the power of education and has studied from the top institutes of IIIT Allahabad, IIM Calcutta, and Francois Rabelias in France. He has worked as Software Developer with Microsoft and Adobe. Post his MBA, he worked with the world's # 1 consulting firm, The Boston Consulting Group across multiple geographies US, South-East Asia and Europe.