PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic) is a computer-based English language proficiency test accepted for studying, working, and migrating to countries like Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Canada, and more.
It is one of the fastest, most reliable alternatives to IELTS, especially for students who are more comfortable with digital formats.
PTE Academic tests four major English skills just like IELTS — but the entire exam is taken on a computer in a single sitting (about 2 hours and 15 minutes).
The PTE (Pearson Test of English) is divided into three main sections: Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening.
In the Speaking & Writing section, candidates are tested on their ability to communicate clearly in English through tasks such as reading aloud, repeating sentences, describing images, summarizing written text, and writing an essay. This section evaluates both verbal fluency and written coherence.
The Reading section focuses on assessing comprehension through various question types like multiple choice questions, re-ordering paragraphs, and filling in the blanks. It measures your ability to understand and interpret written English in academic settings.
Finally, the Listening section evaluates how well you understand spoken English. Tasks include summarizing spoken text, answering multiple choice questions, highlighting incorrect words, and writing from dictation. This section helps gauge your ability to process spoken information in real time.
The PTE (Pearson Test of English) is scored on a scale from 10 to 90. You receive individual scores for each section Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening as well as an overall score that reflects your average performance.
To understand how PTE scores compare to IELTS bands, here’s a general guide: A PTE score between 85 and 90 is equivalent to an IELTS band of 8.5 to 9.0, indicating an expert level of English proficiency. Scores in the range of 76 to 84 align with an IELTS band of 8.0, classifying you as a very good user.
If your PTE score is between 66 and 75, that matches an IELTS score of 7.0, showing that you are a good user of English. A range of 56 to 65 corresponds to an IELTS band of 6.0, which is considered a competent user. Meanwhile, scores from 46 to 55 are equal to an IELTS band of 5.5, suggesting you are a modest user with basic communication skills in familiar situations.
Most universities require a minimum score of 50–65, depending on the program.
Administered by Pearson VUE-authorized centers
The PTE (Pearson Test of English) is a fully computer-based test, where all sections—including speaking—are completed on a computer. In the Speaking section, your responses are recorded through a microphone, and the entire test is scored using AI technology, ensuring unbiased and consistent evaluation. One of the major advantages of PTE is its fast result time, typically within 1 to 2 days. PTE scores are widely accepted in Australia, the UK, New Zealand, and by some institutions in Canada.
On the other hand, the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is available in both paper-based and computer-based formats. However, the Speaking test is conducted face-to-face with a trained examiner, providing a more personal interaction. IELTS scoring involves human examiners, especially for speaking and writing sections, which may introduce some level of subjectivity. The result processing time for IELTS usually ranges from 3 to 13 days, depending on the test format. IELTS is recognized worldwide by thousands of universities, governments, and employers.
At Helpful Educational Institute (P) Ltd., we offer complete support for your PTE journey: