Updated: Sep 30, 2023
PTE General is an international English language exam for speakers of English as a foreign language (EFL). PTE Academic is a computer-based academic English language test for non-native English speakers who want to study abroad. The test is designed to evaluate the 4 skills of English language of the candidate- Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. PTE General is designed to test how well a learner can communicate in authentic and realistic situations. The focus is on communication rather than on learning and knowledge. Therefore, the test uses real-life situations rather than grammatical exercises.
There is no fixed criterion for the candidate to be eligible for the PTE exam. However, the candidate should be well versed with the basics of English language. Further, it is recommended that a candidate after finishing his secondary school studies appear for the PTE exam.
PTE offers flexible testing schedule. Candidates can schedule their test as little as twenty-four hours in advance. PTE Academic offers flexible testing locations, with test centers in over 50 countries worldwide. The candidates can take the test in the months of May, June, August, and November, December at a center convenient to them. The list of centers is available online on the official PTE exam website.
PTE test is done in a single session that is of 3 hours duration, conducted in one sitting at a computer in a secure test environment. There are six levels which are mapped to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
Writing(in mins) Interview(in mins)
A1 Level A1 75 5
A2 Level 1 95 5
C1 Level 4 150 8
C2 Level 5 175 8
B1 Level 2 95 7
B2 Level 3 120 7
The writing paper tests listening, reading comprehension and writing skills, while the interview evaluates the speaking skills.
The material for PTE test is provided at the study center only.
You receive your PTE exam result within 5 days of taking the PTE exam. However, in more than half of the cases, the PTE exam results are made available to the candidate within 2 days of appearing for the exam.
PTE Academic is accepted by many academic programs worldwide, including prestigious institutions like Harvard Business School, INSEAD and Yale University. It is developed by Pearson Language Tests and administered by Edexcel, the exams are accredited by the Qualification and Curriculum Authority (QCA).
