PTE is an English proficiency test widely accepted by universities abroad that use English as the primary medium of instruction. Conducted by the Pearson PLC Group, the Pearson Test of English - Academic (PTE-A), evaluates the student's English proficiency in speaking, writing, reading and listening. 

The level of proficiency or PTE scores are numerical scores that help colleges determine how effectively a non-native speaker can comprehend and communicate ideas in an international setup. Several countries also use PTE scores as part of their visa application process, thus making PTE an important assessment for Indian students to apply to universities abroad.

Types of PTE exams

The PTE Exam is divided into two categories: PTE Academic and PTE Academic UKVI. Both tests assess and score the student's reading, listening, writing and speaking skills along with oral and written fluency, pronunciation, spelling and vocabulary knowledge in the English Language. The only difference between the two is that PTE Academic UKVI is a specialised proficiency test designed only for those who want to live, work and study in the UK. The test provides a Secure English Language Test (SELT) Unique Reference Number that is required at the time of UK visa application.  

Understand the Exam Pattern

The PTE exam has three sections: Speaking and Writing, Reading and Listening distributed over a duration of two hours. 

Before taking this computer-based test, understanding the PTE exam pattern and syllabus can help achieve a good score. 



  • In the first section of the test, the students are evaluated on their spoken and written communication skills. The test is 54–67 minutes long and involves tasks such as personal introduction, reading aloud, sentence formation, listening and re-telling, summarising written tests and writing an argumentative essay.
  • The second part of the test is half an hour long and contains five different tasks, including reading and writing, answering MCQs, filling in the blanks and reordering paragraphs. 
  • The last portion of the PTE exam consists of listening and writing exercises based on audio and video clips. These transcripts can be played only once. Therefore, it's important to listen carefully and take notes if needed. 



PTE scores are instrumental in securing admission to top universities around the world. Understanding the PTE exam pattern, practising on past test resources, and improving vocabulary and English speaking skills can help achieve the desired PTE score.