What is PTE Exam? Understanding the Pearson Test of English for Study Abroad
What is PTE exam? For some this is still a question due to the market holding by IELTS, TOEFL. the answer is that the PTE Exam is Pearson’s test of English, which is highly popular after IELTS. PTE has more advantages to be the most trusted and faster English proficiency test accepted by numerous universities and government bodies worldwide. PTE is Designed to assess reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, through AI-based evaluation.
This is widely accepted test accepted for higher education worldwide, immigration Australia and Canada, or professional registrations in Australia and New Zealand. Understanding the PTE Exam format, scoring, and preparation tips will help you perform confidently and achieve your global goals.
Table of Contents
What is PTE Exam with Its Types and Acceptance
PTE exam is computer based English proficiency exam with its quick evaluation method and results it is highly demanding for Australia. In the beginning PTE exam had the only type called PTE-Academic, later on Pearson added another two different types for other purpose to meet the English proficiency tests.
Types of PTE Exam
- PTE Academic
- PTE Core
- PTE Home
PTE-Academic
PTE Academic is highly popular test which is accepted in about 3900 universities and colleges globally, and professional bodies in Australia and New Zealand. PTE academic has also 4 modules Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The result of PTE academic is scored in Marks between 10-90 over all and each has also 90 marks.
PTE Academic is used for higher studies abroad and also some professional bodies in Australia and New Zealand, The UKVI route is for those students who want to pursue their studies in UK with showing their English proficiency with PTE.
Important Features of PTE Academic
PTE has some very important features as compared to other English tests like IELTS and TOEFL. IT has great value added services which the other are far behind
- Results are more quicker typically with in 02 days.
- Fully Computer Based test conducted at a small friendly test center.
- Less biased scoring as AI is the basic mode of Marking , now recently Human interaction started.
- The test duration is 02 hours only.
- Widely accepted by 3900 Institutes worldwide.
- True assessment of your Academic English
Learn about the PTE Academic Test Format
There are 04 modules which are combined in 3 different parts in the exam format. The combination of the exam is just below
Part 1: Speaking and Writing
There are 9 different question types in this part of the test which are used to assess Speaking and Writing skills, using English which is normally used in an Academic environment.
| Personal Introduction | This is the introductory part of the test. It is not scored and is designed to help candidates become familiar with the test system before proceeding to the actual assessment. In this task, the candidate is required to introduce himself or herself. The candidate will be given 25 seconds to prepare and 30 seconds to record their response. |
| Read Aloud | The prompt is up to 60 words in length and is designed to assess the candidate’s speaking skills. The time allowed to answer may vary depending on the length of the text provided. |
| Repeat Sentence | In this task, candidates listen to a short recording of a sentence and then repeat it exactly as they hear it. The recording lasts between 3 and 9 seconds. This task assesses both listening and speaking skills, and candidates are given 15 seconds to respond. |
| Describe Image | In this task, an image will appear on the screen, and candidates are required to describe it in detail. This task assesses the speaking skill, and candidates are given 40 seconds to deliver their response. |
| Retell Lecture | In this task, candidates listen to or watch a lecture and then retell it in their own words. The lecture may last up to 90 seconds. This task assesses both listening and speaking skills, and candidates are given 40 seconds to respond. |
| Answer Short Question | In this task, candidates listen to a question and respond using a single word or a few words. The question recording lasts between 3 and 9 seconds, and the task assesses listening skills. Candidates are given 10 seconds to answer. |
| Summarize Group Discussion | In this task, candidates listen to a discussion involving three people and then summarize the main points of the conversation in their own words. The discussion may last up to 3 minutes. This task assesses both listening and speaking skills, and candidates are given 2 minutes to respond. |
| Respond to a Situation | In this task, candidates listen to and read a description of a situation, and then respond to a related question with an extended answer. The description may contain up to 60 words. This task assesses speaking skills, and candidates are given 40 seconds to complete their response. |
| Summarize Written Text | After reading a passage of up to 300 words, write one clear and complete sentence that summarizes its main idea within 10 minutes. |
| Write Essay | Write a 200–300 word essay on a given 2–3 sentence topic within 20 minutes to assess your writing skills. |
Part 2: Reading
This section of the test includes five different question types, and since PTE Academic evaluates integrated skills, one of these types Reading and Writing: Fill in the Blanks also measures writing ability
| Fill in the Blanks (Dropdown) | In this task, you will read a text that contains several gaps. From the dropdown menu provided, choose the correct words to fill in each gap. The text is up to 300 words long and is designed to assess your reading skills. There is no time limit for this task. |
| Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers | In this task, you will read a text of up to 350 words and answer a multiple-choice question about its content or tone by selecting more than one correct response. This task assesses your reading skills and has no time limit. |
| Reorder Paragraph | In this task, several text boxes will appear on the screen in a random order. You need to arrange them in the correct logical sequence. The text is up to 150 words long and the task assesses your reading skills. There is no time limit. |
| Fill in the Blanks (Drag and Drop) | In this task, you will see a text of up to 80 words with several gaps. Drag the correct words from the box below to fill each gap. This task assesses your reading skills and has no time limit. |
| Multiple Choice, Single Answer | In this task, you will read a text of up to 300 words and answer a multiple-choice question by selecting one correct response. This task assesses your reading skills and has no time limit. |
Part 3: Listening
This section of the test includes eight different question types.
Each question is based on an audio or video clip that plays automatically. You will hear or see each clip only once, but you may take notes while it plays.
| Summarize Spoken Text | In this task, you will listen to a recording that lasts 60 to 90 seconds and then write a summary of 50 to 70 words. This task assesses both your listening and writing skills and has no time limit. |
| Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers | In this task, you will listen to a recording that lasts 80 to 120 seconds and answer a multiple-choice question about its content or tone by selecting more than one correct response. This task assesses your listening skills and has no time limit. |
| Fill in the Blanks (Type In) | In this task, you will listen to a recording that lasts 30 to 60 seconds while reading its transcript on the screen. The transcript has several gaps, and you need to type the missing word in each gap. This task assesses your listening skills and has no time limit. |
| Highlight Correct Summary | In this task, you will listen to a recording that lasts 30 to 90 seconds and then select the paragraph that best summarizes what you heard. This task assesses both your listening and reading skills and has no time limit. |
| Multiple Choice, Single Answer | In this task, you will listen to a recording that lasts 30 to 90 seconds and answer a multiple-choice question by selecting one correct response. This task assesses your listening skills and has no time limit. |
| Select Missing Word | In this task, you will listen to a recording that lasts 20 to 70 seconds and choose the missing word that correctly completes the recording from a list of options. This task assesses your listening skills and has no time limit. |
| Highlight Incorrect Words | In this task, you will see the transcript of a recording on the screen and listen to the recording that lasts 15 to 50 seconds. As you listen, identify the words in the transcript that are different from what is actually said. This task assesses both your listening and reading skills and has no time limit. |
| Write from Dictation | In this task, you will listen to a short recording of a sentence lasting 3 to 5 seconds and then type the sentence exactly as you hear it. This task assesses both your listening and writing skills and has no time limit. |
PTE Core
PTE Core is a fully computer-based English language test designed to assess your everyday communication skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening — all in a single, two-hour session. Conducted in a secure and friendly test centre environment, it provides a fast, fair, and reliable assessment experience.
Specifically tailored for individuals applying for Canadian permanent residency or citizenship, PTE Core is officially accepted by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) as proof of English proficiency. The test delivers results typically within two days, helping you move forward with your immigration goals faster.
Combining advanced AI scoring with expert human oversight, PTE Core ensures accurate and unbiased results. With its modern, computer-based format and efficient testing process, it’s the simpler, smarter way to be Canada-ready.
Part 1: Speaking and Writing
This part of the test assesses your speaking and writing skills and takes approximately 50 minutes to complete.
Part 2: Reading
This part evaluates your reading skills and lasts for about 30 minutes.
Part 3: Listening
This part measures your listening skills and takes around 30 minutes to finish.
PTE Core Question Types
Part 1: Speaking and Writing
This section of the test lasts for approximately 50 minutes and includes seven different question types, making it the longest part of the exam. It assesses both your speaking and writing skills, focusing on the kind of English you would use in everyday situations. Throughout this section, you’ll demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly and effectively in real-life contexts.
Part 1 — Speaking & Writing: Question Types
Below are brief descriptions of the eight question types you’ll meet in the speaking & writing section.
1. Personal Introduction
Introduce yourself in one short paragraph — this helps examiners learn about your spoken English. (Not scored.)
2. Read Aloud
Read a short written text aloud. Assesses pronunciation, fluency and intonation.
3. Repeat Sentence
Listen to a sentence and repeat it exactly. Tests listening memory, pronunciation and stress.
4. Describe Image
Speak about a chart, photo or diagram for 40–60 seconds, showing organisation and spoken clarity.
5. Respond to a Situation
Reply to a short prompt or everyday scenario as you would in real life. Measures functional spoken English.
6. Answer Short Question
Hear a quick question and give a short spoken answer (a word or short phrase).
7. Summarize Written Text
Read a short passage then write a 50–70 word summary. Tests reading comprehension and concise writing.
8. Write Email
Compose a short formal or informal email responding to a prompt. Assesses organisation, tone and writing mechanics.
Part 2: Reading
Part 2 — Reading: Question Types
The Reading section takes approximately 30 minutes and evaluates your ability to understand written English in academic and everyday contexts. It includes five different question types designed to test your comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary skills.
1. Reading and Writing: Fill in the Blanks
Drag and drop words from a list to complete the text accurately. Tests both reading and writing skills.
2. Multiple-choice, Choose Multiple Answers
Read a passage and select more than one correct answer that best matches the meaning of the text.
3. Re-order Paragraphs
Arrange several text boxes in the correct order to form a logical and coherent passage.
4. Fill in the Blanks
Choose the correct word for each blank from dropdown options to complete the text meaningfully.
5. Multiple-choice, Choose Single Answer
Read the passage and select one correct answer that best represents the main idea or detail.
Part 3: Listening
Part 3 — Listening: Question Types
This part of the PTE test lasts for approximately 30 minutes and includes seven different question types. You will listen to a variety of audio and video clips that begin playing automatically, and you’ll hear each one only once. You may take notes during this section.
1. Summarize Spoken Text
Listen to a short lecture or talk and write a 50–70 word summary. Tests listening and writing skills.
2. Multiple-choice, Choose Multiple Answers
After listening to a recording, select more than one correct answer to a comprehension question.
3. Fill in the Blanks
While listening to a recording, complete the transcript by typing the missing words in each gap.
4. Highlight Correct Summary
Listen to a recording and choose the paragraph that best summarizes the main idea.
5. Multiple-choice, Choose Single Answer
Listen to a short recording and select one correct response that best answers the question.
6. Select Missing Word
Listen to a recording and choose the missing word or phrase that correctly completes it.
7. Highlight Incorrect Words
Read the transcript while listening and identify words that are different from what you hear.
8. Write from Dictation
Listen to a short sentence and type it exactly as you hear it. Tests both listening and writing accuracy.
PTE Home — Secure English Test for UK Visas
PTE Home is a computer-based English test designed for people applying for UK visas, family, or settlement purposes. It focuses on assessing listening and speaking skills used in everyday life. The test is simple, short, and trusted by the UK Home Office for visa and immigration applications.
PTE Home Test Types
PTE Home A1
For family route visas (spouse or parent visa). Tests basic English communication at CEFR Level A1.
PTE Home A2
For visa extensions after two and a half years. Demonstrates progress to CEFR Level A2.
PTE Home B1
For indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or British citizenship. Confirms language ability at CEFR Level B1.
PTE Home Question Types
1. Repeat Sentence
Listen to a short sentence and repeat it exactly to assess pronunciation and listening.
2. Describe Image
Speak about an image shown on screen, testing your ability to explain information clearly.
3. Answer Short Question
Hear a simple question and respond with one or two words to show understanding.
4. Listen and Select Word
Choose the correct word you hear from a list of options. Measures listening accuracy.
5. Listen and Write
Type the sentence exactly as you hear it to assess listening and spelling skills.
What is PTE Exam ? Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the PTE Exam?
The PTE (Pearson Test of English) is a computer-based English language proficiency test that evaluates your speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills. It is widely accepted by universities, colleges, and governments around the world for study, work, and migration purposes.
2. Who conducts the PTE Exam?
The PTE exam is conducted by Pearson, a global leader in education and assessment.
3. Why should I take the PTE Exam?
You should take PTE if you plan to study abroad, apply for a visa, or demonstrate your English proficiency for academic or professional reasons. It is known for being fast, fair, and accurate due to AI-based scoring.
4. What are the different types of PTE tests?
There are three main types of PTE tests:
- PTE Academic: For study abroad and university admissions.
- PTE Core: For Canadian permanent residency and citizenship.
- PTE Home: For UK family, work, or settlement visa applications.
5. How long does the PTE test take?
The full test takes around two hours and includes sections on Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening.
6. How are PTE scores calculated?
PTE uses an AI-driven scoring system that ensures fair and unbiased results. Scores range from 10 to 90, reflecting overall English proficiency.
7. How long are PTE scores valid?
Your PTE Academic score is valid for two years from the test date.
8. How soon can I get my results?
Most test takers receive their results within 48 hours (2 days) after completing the exam.
9. Where is the PTE accepted?
PTE is accepted by thousands of universities and colleges in countries such as Australia, Canada, the UK, USA, and New Zealand.
10. How can I prepare for the PTE Exam?
You can prepare by taking official PTE practice tests, enrolling in online courses, or joining a coaching center that focuses on PTE Academic strategies and skill-building.