A brief student guide to the PTE Academic language test

If you’re looking to study abroad, then you would know the role of language tests such as PTE Academic. This computer test provides a score that indicates how proficient you are in English speaking, writing, reading, and listening, which helps universities abroad determine if you qualify for your applied course.

Before you go any further, check out this quick guide to understand the PTE Academic in four questions.

Which countries accept PTE?

Since PTE Academic is widely recognised, it is considered one of the top English language tests for international students. It is most popular in the UK, where 99% of universities accept it as proof of language proficiency. This includes top institutions such as the University of Oxford, UCL, King’s College London and the London School of Economics.

Looking at North America instead? Well, you’ll be glad to know that 90% of Canadian universities and over 1,000 American higher education institutions also recognise PTE results. You may also use these results to apply for scholarships — Chevening, Fulbright, Australia Awards, New Zealand Government Scholarships, and LPDP Indonesia included.

Getting your language abilities certified is one of the first steps towards a fulfilling education abroad. Source: Oli Scarff/AFP

Where can I take the PTE Academic test?

The first step is signing up for an account, which you can do after taking a five-minute sample test. You may prepare with the resources available online. Once ready, it’s time to secure your slot online; bookings are accepted up to 24 hours in advance.

Though it is an online test, you must go to a test centre to take it. There are over 350 test centres across more than 116 countries, which gives you plenty of options without having to go too far from home.

What is the test format?

There are three components to the PTE Academic test: Speaking & Writing (which should take within 77 to 93 minutes), Reading (32 to 40 minutes), and Listening (45 to 57 minutes). That’s three hours in total, but you can take a 10-minute break between the Reading and Listening parts.

You will be afforded between 10 to 90 points using the Global Scale of English — and you will receive this score within just 48 hours (or 2 working days). Then, you can share these results with your university and college choices via PTE’s free online tool.

How will I be graded?

Now, you may be wondering how the PTE Academic tests are graded so quickly. Since it is entirely computer-based, you will be assessed by an artificial intelligence system. It scores you solely for your language ability, using an algorithm that mimics human markers.