Wonder to study abroad? For decades, IELTS and TOEFL have been household names among English language test takers, but the introduction of the PTE exam has added a new English language test to the list. Want to know PTE exam Pattern? Continue reading to know more…
The PTE is an internationally recognized computer-based standardized test of speaking ability developed by Pearson Plc. and is managed worldwide in association with Edexcel. The test corresponds to the level of language proficiency defined by the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) and is scored on a scale of 10 to 90.
Do you know?
Pearson has introduced a “PTE at Home” version of the PTE exam. Starting from October 25, 2021, candidates who want to take PTE at home can book the online PTE Academic test starting from November 16, 2021. Candidates will also be happy to know that the current PTE exam will be shortened by one hour.
What all is covered in this post?
To make it easier for you, we have created a quick guide to everything you need to know about the PTE exam Pattern.
Topics covered
Highlights of PTE Exam
Here are some of the basic highlights of the exam structure, you need to consider before booking for the test:
| Category | Information |
| Eligibility | Applicants should be aged at least 16 years |
| Format | The exam format consists of 20 unique questions which test Speaking & writing skills (54–67 minutes), Reading skills (29–30 minutes), and Listening skills (30–43 minutes |
| Test charges | ₹14,700 |
| Test duration | 2 hours |
| Test Results & Score Scale | PTE results are announced within 5 business days. The score ranges between 10-90 |
| Testing availability | Throughout the year |
PTE Exam Registration Process
PTE exam registration is completely online and takes just a few steps. Once you are on the official Pearson PTE website, follow these simple steps:
- Create a Pearson account by clicking Sign Up.
- Log in to your myPTE account and set up your profile
- Complete the booking questions
- Find your preferred PTE exam location (Test Center, Date & Time)
- View PTE booking details
- Make payment and complete your PTE exam booking
Latest PTE exam pattern
This section will cover all the latest developments related to the PTE exam for students who are planning to take the PTE Academic exam. Pearson has launched a shortened version of the PTE and PTE at Home, starting in November 2021.
PTE Format: Pearson has introduced a PTE at-home version of the PTE exam. Starting from October 25, 2021, candidates who want to take PTE at home can book the online PTE Academic test starting from November 16, 2021. Candidates will also be happy to know that the current PTE exam will be shortened by one hour.
| PTE Format | Details |
| Medium | Computer-based with headset |
| Mode | Taken in a test center / Home Edition |
| PTE Duration | 2 hours and a Single test session |
| PTE Exam Pattern | Speaking & Writing Skills (54 – 67 minutes)Reading skills (29 – 30 minutes), and Listening skills (30 – 43 minutes) |
| Exam Layout | 20 questions |
PTE exam sample papers
PTE Practice Papers are available in two formats: PTE Sample Sets (PDF) and PTE Online Mock Test. The practice papers are available on the official website (https://myptebooking.com/pte-real-question-bank/) which are designed according to the latest PTE exam pattern and format.
PTE Sample Papers in PDF format can be downloaded and practiced anytime. The online mock test is graded and gives the exact feel and look of the original PTE test. The online PTE Mock Test score is usually issued within an hour of taking the test. So it gives you an idea about your level of preparation for PTE and helps you analyze your weaknesses.
Practicing enough PTE Practice Papers will help you feel confident and familiarize yourself with the pattern and format of the test. You will also learn how to manage your time by answering questions. It will also help you analyze your skills and make appropriate changes in your PTE study plans.
Practicing mock tests will help you score well on the test, which is essential for admission to top PTE participating colleges such as University of Birmingham, University of Leeds, University of New Haven, University of Manchester, University of Glasgow, University of Hertfordshire, McMaster University (Canada), Georgian College (Canada), Colorado State University (USA), Auburn University (USA), Bath Spa University (UK), Pearson College in London, etc.
PTE exam syllabus
To crack the PTE exam, it is important for the candidates to understand the PTE syllabus. PTE Academic is broadly divided into PTE Speaking and Writing Section, PTE Reading Section and PTE Listening Section. Candidates can check the detailed PTE syllabus for each category below:
PTE Speaking and Writing section topics
For the speaking and writing section, candidates will have a total of 54-67 minutes and the section will include the following types of questions.
- Answer Short Question
- Describe Image
- Essay
- Personal Introduction
- Read Aloud
- Repeat Sentence
- Re-tell Lecture
- Summarize Written Text
PTE Reading Section Topics
In the reading section, candidates will be given a total of 29-30 minutes to complete the section. The questions in the PTE Reading section will cover the following topics.
- Fill in the Blanks
- Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer
- Multiple Choice, Single Answer
- Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks
- Re-order Paragraphs
PTE Listening Section Topics
For the listening section, candidates will be given a total of 30-43 minutes to complete the section. The PTE Listening section will include the following types of questions.
- Fill in the Blanks
- Highlight Correct Summary
- Highlight Incorrect Words
- Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
- Multiple Choice, Single Answer
- Select Missing Word
- Summarize Spoken Text
- Write from Dictation
Tips for PTE exam preparation
The first task of PTE exam preparation tips is to have a thorough understanding of PTE exam patterns and scores. Candidates may lose marks if they do not know the PTE exam pattern. Here we have selected some PTE Academic Preparation Tips for each of the 3 sections of PTE Academic. If you are a beginner and new to the PTE exam, going through the tips below will be helpful to prepare for the PTE exam for beginners.
How to prepare for PTE exam at home?
Here are some PTE preparation tips to include in your study plan:
- Since the exam is about English proficiency; therefore, a basic command of English is recommended.
- Try to improve your vocabulary and grammar skills.
- Develop thorough reading skills.
- There are various PTE textbooks and study materials that candidates can refer to for their preparation.
- Practice tons of mock tests to understand the test pattern and comprehension level to increase your PTE score.
- Watch PTE videos from YouTube to get more knowledge about the exam.
- You can opt for PTE Academic Online Coaching, which offers customized courses and flexible schedules.
- Take the help of PTE preparation software like PTE Tutorials, PTE Success, PTE Practice and more.
- Try to focus on your studies early in the morning.
- To focus and practice your listening skills, try TED talks, audiobooks, Radio National and BBC radio stations and podcasts.
In Conclusion
So, here you have the tricky essentials of PTE exam pattern. We hope you have some clarity about the matter now. Although if you are preparing for the PTE exam, it is enough evidence that you have decided where you want to see yourself in the future, but career decision is one of the most important things in your life and you may want to talk to industry experts. Know yourself in and out!
iDreamCareer is on a mission to reach every state and every child to ensure that talent is appropriately delivered to the industry.
Talk to our study abroad experts to know yourself in and out! We have helped several brilliant but confused minds to select their most-suited career choices. We have helped many students like Anjana Prasanna who was not very confident about her capabilities. Later with the help of career guidance and moral support from our study abroad experts she got an offer from King’s College London! We have also helped several brilliant but confused minds like Aayush, and Tapan to select their most-suited career choices.
Also Read:
- PTE – Official Website
- PTE Exam
- TOEFL vs. IELTS
- GRE Syllabus
- SAT Exam: Details, Fees, Exam Date, & Eligibility
- PTE Score for Australia
- GRE Syllabus
- GMAT Exam Pattern
- Study in Canada
- Study in UK
- Study in Italy
- Study in Europe
- Study in France
- Study in USA
- Study in Australia
- MBA in Australia
- Student Visa Australia
- How to be on Top in Exams to Study Abroad
- IELTS Exam for Canada in 2024
FAQs
Pearson has launched a shortened version of the PTE and PTE at Home, starting in November 2021. Candidates who expected Pearson to introduce a ‘PTE at home’ version of the PTE exam are in for a pleasant surprise. Starting from October 25, 2021, candidates who want to take PTE at home can book the online PTE Academic test starting from November 16, 2021. Candidates will also be happy to know that the current PTE exam will be shortened by one hour. New PTE pattern also from 16 Nov 2021.
The Australian Government accepts PTE Academic scores as proof of English language proficiency for all visa categories, including study and permanent residence. Functional, professional, competent, knowledgeable, and excellent English are all required of applicants.
The IELTS exam is much easier than the PTE because of the marking process. Both of these exams are English proficiency scores. Students who are interested in studying abroad must pass both tests. Both tests are equally important, famous, and mandatory.
PTE scores range from 10-90; however, a PTE passing score is missing. Candidates scoring between 65 and 75 is considered a good PTE score for admission to top universities. For other universities, a PTE score between 50-63 is generally accepted.
It is very difficult to score a minimum of 65 in PTE if you don’t have a proper plan and platform to practice. But first, you should set realistic expectations for yourself and for the PTE exam. That’s right! You will be the one expected to get a score of 65+, so make sure you check what level you are currently at.
Anushree Rastogi is a Senior Content Writer at iDreamCareer, bringing over 5 years of expertise to the field of career counseling. She has done a PGDM in Marketing and Finance and possesses a unique blend of skills that allows her to craft engaging and informative content. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate their career paths and has dedicated her career to providing valuable insights through her content. Her commitment to excellence and keen understanding of the career landscape make her a trusted guide for those seeking professional direction. With a flair for clear and engaging writing, Anushree is on a mission to empower others to make informed and fulfilling career choices.
