PTE Exam 2024 - Dates, Registration, Fees, Pattern, Preparation, Result

What is PTE? The PTE is an internationally recognised English language proficiency examin conducted by the Pearson VUE.  The PTE exam's full form is Pearson Test of English. PTE is trusted by over 3,500 universities and colleges globally for admission to various courses. Pearson test is a computer-based test used to assess the English proficiency of non-native English speakers who want to pursue higher education abroad. The PTE Academic tests language proficiency in real-world situations. 

The PTE Academic score is recognised for admission to many universities in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, and USA. Reputed universities, including Harvard University, Yale University, and INSEAD accept PTE Academic scores to enrol international students. PTE test is also accepted for visa applications to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK. In addition to being accepted as proof of English language proficiency, PTE is also accepted by ministries of education and employers in many countries. PTE Academic is also recognised by the US State Boards of Nursing for work visas.

The PTE exam pattern consists of only 3 sections: Speaking & Writing, Listening, and Reading. The total PTE exam duration is 2 hours. PTE is a fully computer-based test conducted in a test centre. The speaking and writing sections are conducted together. The PTE registration can be done online from its official website throughout the year. Students can complete their test registration by paying the necessary PTE exam fee. The PTE academic test fee in India is Rs. 17,000. PTE results are scored entirely by AI, except for the Describe Image and Retell Lecture tasks, which are assessed by both AI and a human examiner. The PTE Academic result is released within just 48 hours from the exam date and is valid for two years. During this period, candidates can send the scores to as many universities as they wish to. The conducting body does not charge any additional fees for sharing the scores with institutions.

PTE Exam Latest Updates

4th-November, 2024: PTE Academic Scoring Enhancements

Pearson has adopted a dual-checking PTE scores method for spoken tasks of 'Describe Image' and 'Retell Lecture'. Using AI with human expertise for evaluating PTE tests helps in more credibility, reliability, and fairness for aspirants. Here are the key takeaways from the latest PTE score update:

• Human expertise is used for two spoken tasks which are Describe Image and Retell Lecture. The rest of the tasks are scored as usual as before with only AI.
• Test takers won't notice any difference while taking the test, and they don’t need to change how they prepare for the exam.
• The task responses from spoken questions in the PTE Test will undergo double-checking. The responses are initially scored by an artificial intelligence system, after which a human examiner assesses their genuineness and validity.
• Tests will undergo double PTE scoring from November 4, 2024.
• Implementing a double-checking process for the PTE test results will improve their reliability and uphold fairness for all users.

7th-October, 2024: New Institutions that started accepting PTE Academic scores 

Some new universities are now added to the previous 3,500+ institutions worldwide that accept PTE Academic scores for admissions. These new institutions include the following:

• Federation of the Optometric Regulatory and Licensing Bodies FORAC
• Newfoundland and Labrador Optometric Board
• Nova Scotia College of Optometrists
• Prince Edward Island College of Optometrists
• College of Optometrists of Ontario
• Manitoba Association and College of Optometrists

12th-February, 2024: New PTE Core

A new type of PTE test for people who are willing to migrate or work in Canada. The PTE Core is very similar to the PTE Academic, assessing the four (4) skills in English. Here, the key difference is that PTE Core involves real-life and non-academic focus concepts. Candidates using PTE core can apply for Canada permanent residency.

Types of PTE Exam

The PTE exam is offered in four types: PTE Academic, PTE Core,  PTE UK Visa Tests, and PTE Academic Online. Which PTE exam to take completely depends on the individual's goals and preferences. 

What is PTE Academic Exam?

It is a computer-based English test that assesses the English language proficiency of the students in three main sections: speaking & writing, reading, and listening skills. The duration of PTE Academic is around 135 minutes. Students who are looking to study in top universities abroad can take the PTE Academic test to demonstrate their English language skills. 

What is PTE Core Exam?

PTE Core is a computer-based language proficiency test that evaluates the English language skills of students in three academic levels: speaking & writing, reading, and listening skills. Candidates who are applying for a permanent residency in Canada can take the PTE Core exam.

What is PTE UK Visa Tests? 

Candidates who wish to apply for a Student route visa (formerly known as the Tier 4 General student visa) can apply for the PTE UKVI test. This visa allows students to study for below degree levels such as foundation, pathways, or professional English courses. There are no major differences between PTE UKVI and Academic tests. A few minor differences in choosing the PTE UKVI against Academic is that PTE Academic UKVI  provides a Unique Reference Number (URN) for UK visa application. 

What is PTE Academic Online?

It is an at-home version of PTE Academic exam. The test content, scoring, and format of the PTE Academic Online is similar to the Academic version. Students who are unable to visit the PTE test centre can take the test online in a quiet and private space. Currently, PTE Academic Online is not accepted for visa applications for most foreign universities. 

Requirements for PTE Academic Online

• A Windows or Mac laptop or desktop computer
• Good internet connection
• A wired headset with a microphone
• A quiet and private location