Pearson Test of English (PTE Exam)

Pearson Test of English (PTE Exam)

Overview

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is an English language proficiency test designed to assess the listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills of non-native English speakers. It is widely accepted by universities, colleges, and governments in countries such as the UK, Australia, the USA, Canada, and New Zealand for study and migration purposes.

PTE is known for its computer-based format, offering a quick and efficient way to measure language skills. It provides a detailed report with scores for each section, along with an overall score. The test is recognized for its fairness, accuracy, and flexibility, with results typically available within 48 hours.

PTE Latest Updates 2024

Candidates wishing to take the PTE Academic exam will now be required to pay INR 17,000, which includes an 18% tax of INR 2,593.22. For those opting for the PTE Home exam, the fee is INR 14,435. Additionally, PTE has shortened the test duration to two hours, down from the previous three hours.

Exam Name PTE Academic
Conducted by Pearson PLC Group
Official Website www.pearsonpte.com/pte-academic
PTE full form Pearson Test of English
Widely Popular As English Language Proficiency Test
Mode of Exam Online Computer-based Test (CBT)
PTE Exam Fees INR 17,000
Skills Tested English Speaking, Writing, Listening and Reading Skills
Accepted by Universities in the UK, the USA, Australia, Canada and New Zealand

Why Should You Take PTE 2024?

  • PTE results are available within 48 hours, ideal for tight deadlines.
  • Accepted by over 3,000 universities worldwide, including top institutions in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada.
  • The computer-based test eliminates human bias in scoring.
  • Flexible test dates throughout the year for convenience.
  • Automated scoring ensures accuracy and consistency.
  • The test duration is just 2 hours, shorter than other exams like IELTS.
  • Available at numerous test centers, including in India.
  • Assesses Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing in real-life contexts.

PTE Eligibility

Indian students can take the PTE Academic if they are at least 16 years old (with parental consent if under 18). There are no specific educational requirements. A valid passport or government ID is needed for registration.

  • Minimum age: 16 years old (parental consent required if under 18).
  • No specific educational requirements to take the test.
  • Valid government-issued ID (passport, national ID, driver's license) required.
  • PTE Academic is for study, work, and visa purposes; PTE General is for general English proficiency.
  • PTE General is available to candidates of any age and includes both written and spoken parts.
  • PTE can be used for immigration purposes in countries like Australia and New Zealand.
  • PTE can be used for immigration purposes in countries like Australia and New Zealand.
  • Registration done online through the Pearson PTE website.
  • Score requirements for immigration depend on the specific visa type.

Registration

1. Create an Account

Visit the official Pearson PTE website and create a Pearson account.

2. Select Test Type

Choose PTE Academic for study, work, or visa purposes.

3. Choose Test Cente

Find and select an authorized test center in India.

4. Pick Test Date

Choose your preferred test date from available slots.

5. Fill in Details

Provide your personal details (name, ID, contact info) and upload a valid government-issued ID (passport preferred).

6. Make Payment

Pay the test fee online via debit/credit card, net banking, or other available payment methods.

7. Confirm Registration

After payment, receive a confirmation email with your test details.

8. Prepare for Exam

Prepare using official PTE practice materials.

9. Attend Exam

On test day, bring your ID and arrive at the center early.

Exam Pattern

A strong score on the PTE test demonstrates a candidate's ability to effectively communicate ideas, deliver presentations, and gain international exposure while working with diverse global audiences. It ensures that applicants are prepared to study alongside students and faculty from around the world in English, the universal language. In this section, we will explore the updated PTE format for 2024, designed for candidates planning to take the test.

PTE Format Details
PTE Exam Pattern An English language exam that has been developed to test the Speaking & Writing skills (54 – 67 minutes), Reading skills (29 – 30 minutes), and Listening skills (30 – 43 minutes) of candidates wanting to study abroad in an English-speaking country.
PTE Duration 2 Hours and a Single test session
Medium Computer-based with headset
Mode Taken in a test centre / Home Edition
Test Type Assesses real-life English
Test Layout 20 question types

1. Speaking & Writing

Personal Introduction A brief introduction (not scored).
Read Aloud Read a short passage aloud.
Repeat Sentence Listen to a sentence and repeat it.
Describe Image Describe an image shown on screen.
Re-tell Lecture Listen to a lecture and summarize it.
Answer Short Question Answer a simple question based on a prompt.
Summarize Written Text Write a summary of a short passage (1 sentence).
Essay Writing Write an essay (200-300 words) on a given topic.

2. Reading section

Multiple-Choice, Single Answer Choose the correct answer from the options.
Multiple-Choice, Multiple Answers Select more than one correct answer.
Re-order Paragraphs Rearrange jumbled paragraphs to form a coherent text.
Fill in the Blanks Complete text with missing words (based on context).

3. Listening section

Summarize Spoken Text Write a summary of a spoken text (50-70 words).
Multiple-Choice, Single Answer Choose the correct answer based on the audio.
Multiple-Choice, Multiple Answers Multiple-Choice, Multiple Answers
Fill in the Blanks Complete text based on what you hear.
Highlight Correct Summary Choose the correct summary of a spoken text.
Select Missing Word Listen to audio and select the missing word from a list
Highlight Incorrect Words Identify incorrect words in a transcript of the audio.
Write from Dictation Write down a sentence you hear.

Total Test Duration: 3 hours (including a short break between sections)

Each section tests different aspects of English skills, including speaking, writing, listening, and reading, and the test is entirely computer-based.

Fees

PTE fees vary depending on the regional test centers in different countries. In India, the fee ranges from INR 13,000 to INR 17,000, which includes the 18% tax, as well as administrative and registration costs. Additional charges may apply for test rescheduling or score reporting. There are over 62 test centers across India, including major cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai.

PTE Registration Fee Structure

PTE Exam Service Fees Exam Description
PTE Academic INR 17,000 This test is for candidates who want to study at a degree level or above in foreign countries.
PTE Academic Online INR 17,000 The PTE Academic Online option is for individuals who wish to take the PTE academic test from the comfort of their home or in a private setting under someone's supervision.

PTE Cancellation Fee

The PTE (Pearson Test of English) cancellation fee depends on when you cancel your test. If you cancel more than 14 days before the test, you’ll receive a full refund minus an administrative fee, typically around 25%. If you cancel between 7 to 14 days before the test, you may be refunded 50% of the test fee. However, if you cancel within 7 days of the test or don’t show up, you usually forfeit the entire test fee. Refunds are generally processed within 4-6 weeks. It’s always best to check the specific cancellation policy on the PTE website for the most accurate details, as terms can vary by region.

No. Of Days Cancellation Fee
Before 14 full calendar days Full Refund
Before 8 to 13 full calendar days 50% Refund on total fees.
Before 7 or Less calendar days No Refund

Things to Remember While Paying PTE Fee

Candidates must carefully review and follow the important guidelines before proceeding with payment. It is essential to adhere to the terms, conditions, and guidelines to ensure a smooth and successful registration process.

  • Check the correct PTE exam fee (₹13,300–₹15,000) and ensure it matches your location before paying.
  • Make the payment using a valid credit/debit card or PayPal, and verify you receive a payment confirmation email.
  • Register early to secure your preferred test date and avoid additional fees.
  • Double-check that all personal details are accurate to prevent issues with your registration.
  • Keep a copy of your payment receipt and confirmation for future reference.

FAQ

1. What is the PTE exam?

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is an English language proficiency test for non-native English speakers. It assesses listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills and is widely accepted by universities, colleges, and immigration authorities around the world.

2. What is the scoring system for PTE?

The PTE uses a score range from 10 to 90. Scores are based on your performance in each of the four sections (speaking, writing, reading, listening). A higher score indicates better proficiency in English. Each university or institution may have a different score requirement, typically ranging from 50 to 70+ for undergraduate courses and higher for postgraduate courses.

3. How can I register for the PTE exam?

You can register for the PTE exam through the official Pearson PTE website. Create an account, select your preferred test center and date, and make the payment. Payment can be done via credit/debit card, net banking, or through international payment methods.

4. What is the test fee for PTE in India?

The cost of the PTE exam in India typically ranges between INR 15,000 to INR 16,000, though fees may vary slightly by region. The exact amount can be checked on the official PTE website during the registration process.

5. What is the cancellation policy for the PTE exam?

If you need to cancel your PTE exam, you can do so up to 14 days before the test date for a partial refund (minus an administrative fee). Cancellations made within 7 days of the test or no-shows will typically not receive a refund.

6. How do I get my PTE test results?

PTE results are usually available within 5 business days after the test. You can view your scores online through your Pearson PTE account. Results are available for download and can be shared with universities and institutions directly.

8. Can I reschedule my PTE exam?

Yes, you can reschedule your PTE exam. Rescheduling is possible if done at least 14 days before the test date, and there may be a rescheduling fee involved.