The PTE was first launched in 2009 by Pearson, a global education and publishing company. It was developed to provide a faster, fairer, and more objective assessment of English language skills. What sets PTE apart from other tests is its complete computer-based approach, including AI-based scoring, which eliminates human bias.
The test was created in response to the growing demand for a reliable English test that could deliver quick results, accommodate more test dates, and cater to students applying for academic or immigration purposes.
Today, the PTE is accepted by thousands of institutions worldwide, including Ivy League universities, UK and Australian government immigration departments, and multinational corporations.
2. Types of PTE Exams
Pearson offers several versions of the PTE, each designed for specific purposes:
A. PTE Academic
This is the most popular version of the PTE and is primarily used for:
University admissions
Visa applications (especially for study or skilled migration)
Professional licensing
B. PTE Academic Online
This version is similar to PTE Academic but can be taken from home using a secure online proctoring system. It is accepted by many institutions but not by immigration bodies (as of 2025).
C. PTE Home
This is used for UK visa and immigration purposes (e.g., family visas, work visas). It tests basic English proficiency (A1, A2, B1 levels on the CEFR scale).
D. PTE Core (New)
Launched recently, PTE Core is designed for Canadian economic immigration and professional registration, targeting everyday English skills in practical situations.
3. Test Format and Structure
The PTE Academic test is divided into three main parts, each focusing on specific language skills:
A. Part 1: Speaking and Writing (54–67 minutes)
Tasks:
Personal Introduction (not scored)
Read Aloud
Repeat Sentence
Describe Image
Re-tell Lecture
Answer Short Question
Summarize Written Text
Essay (20 minutes)
This section assesses your ability to produce spoken and written English in an academic environment. Speaking tasks evaluate pronunciation, fluency, and content, while writing tasks test grammar, coherence, and vocabulary.
B. Part 2: Reading (29–30 minutes)
Tasks:
Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks
Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
Re-order Paragraphs
Fill in the Blanks
Multiple Choice, Single Answer
This part measures your ability to read, understand, and interpret academic texts.
C. Part 3: Listening (30–43 minutes)
Tasks:
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
The listening section evaluates your ability to understand spoken English in academic settings, focusing on comprehension, note-taking, and interpretation.
4. Scoring System
One of the most distinguishing features of the PTE is its automated scoring system. Instead of human examiners, responses are scored using sophisticated AI algorithms.
Score Range:
Total scores range from 10 to 90.
Each of the four skills (Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening) is also scored individually on the same scale.
Enabling Skills:
In addition to the four main communicative skills, PTE also assesses enabling skills like:
Grammar
Oral fluency
Pronunciation
Spelling
Vocabulary
Written discourse
These skills contribute to your overall performance and help institutions get a more detailed breakdown of your English proficiency.
Score Comparison:
Here’s a brief comparison with IELTS and TOEFL scores:
PTE Score IELTS Band TOEFL iBT
90 9.0 118–120
85 8.5 115–117
79 8.0 110–114
65 7.0 94–101
50 6.0 60–78
36 5.0 35–45
5. Test Day Experience
Taking the PTE is a streamlined experience, but knowing what to expect can help reduce stress:
Registration: You book the test through the Pearson website and choose from hundreds of test centers worldwide.
ID Requirements: A valid copyright is typically required.
Security: Strict measures are in place, including biometric scans and digital signatures.
Test Environment: All sections are completed on a computer, with noise-cancelling headphones provided.
The entire test lasts about 2 hours (reduced from the original 3 hours in earlier versions).
6. Advantages of the PTE
A. Fast Results
PTE delivers scores within 48 hours, often within 24 hours.
B. Flexible Test Dates
Tests are available almost every day, and you can book them up to 24 hours in advance in many locations.
C. AI Scoring
The automated scoring system ensures unbiased and consistent results.
D. Wide Recognition
PTE is accepted by:
3000+ universities (including Harvard, Yale, and Oxford)
Governments of Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Canada
Professional bodies like CPA Australia and Nursing Boards
E. Integrated Skills Testing
Many questions assess multiple skills at once (e.g., listening + writing), which mirrors real-world communication better.
7. Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
A. Time Pressure
Some sections are timed tightly. Practice under timed conditions using mock tests.
B. Pronunciation Issues
The AI scoring system evaluates pronunciation strictly. Use tools like Eloquence, YouTube shadowing, or apps like Elsa Speak for practice.
C. Typing Speed
Since the entire test is typed, slow typing can affect performance. Practicing typing essays and summaries is essential.
D. Lack of Preparation Materials
Though PTE is gaining popularity, it still has fewer resources compared to IELTS. Use official Pearson guides, paid courses, and mock tests for best results.
8. Preparation Tips
1. Understand the Format
Knowing the structure and task types is half the battle. Use official resources and sample questions.
2. Use Scored Practice Tests
Pearson offers official scored practice tests that simulate the real exam and give estimated scores.
3. Focus on Weak Skills
The score report provides a breakdown, allowing you to identify and work on weak areas.
4. Take Feedback Seriously
Use AI-based feedback tools or PTE coaching centers to get detailed evaluations of your speaking and writing.
5. Join Online Communities
Websites like Reddit’s r/PTE, Facebook groups, and YouTube channels offer tips, experiences, and study materials.
9. PTE vs. IELTS vs. TOEFL
Feature PTE IELTS TOEFL
Format Computer-based Paper or Computer Computer-based
Scoring AI-based (10–90) Human-rated (Band 1–9) Human + AI (0–120)
Results Time 24–48 hours 3–5 days 4–6 days
Test Length 2 hours 2 hr 45 min 3–3.5 hours
Accent Neutral + Global British, Australian American
Popular in Australia, Canada UK, Australia, India USA, Canada
Skills Integration High certificate cost Medium High
10. Who Should Take the PTE?
PTE is ideal for:
Students applying to universities abroad.
Professionals seeking work visas or skill assessments.