The PTE Exam (Pearson Test of English) is a computer-based English language test used worldwide to assess the reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills of non-native English speakers. It is widely accepted for study abroad, professional registration, and some immigration pathways all due to PTE Result which is objective and quick machine based. Its AI-driven scoring and fully digital delivery reduces examiner bias and speeds up results reporting.
On this page you will find a clear breakdown of the PTE Test, including the different Pearson PTE Test types, eligibility and documents, the exam pattern and syllabus, booking and fees, scoring, and comparisons with other tests so you can decide whether PTE in India (or abroad) is right for your goals.
Check out PTE Exam Dates and Test Centres near you, if you are planning it soon.
To get the information in one go, take a look at this table:
Particulars
Details
Full Form
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
Conducted By
Pearson PLC Group
Accepted For
Study abroad, work, and immigration (in 70+ countries)
The Pearson PTE Test is an advanced English proficiency exam that evaluates real-life communication ability ideal for study abroad, migration or professional licensing. In 2025, it continues to be popular for its AI accuracy, faster processing and global recognition.
Key Reasons to Take the PTE in 2025:
Unbiased scoring: 100% AI-evaluated with consistent accuracy.
Fast results: Scores are typically released within 48 hours.
Global acceptance: Recognized in countries like USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Flexible scheduling: Test dates available almost every week across India
These features make the PTE in India one of the most convenient and reliable English tests for aspirants targeting 2025 intakes.
Overview of Pearson PTE Test Types
The Pearson Test of English comes in three main variants, each serving a unique purpose. Before booking, understand which version suits your academic or immigration goals.
Test Type
Accepted For
Test Highlights
PTE Academic
Study abroad & professional registration
2-hour AI-based test covering all 4 skills; accepted by 3,000+ global institutions
PTE Core
Employment or general English evaluation
Focuses on workplace communication and daily language tasks
PTE Home / UKVI
Visa & immigration (mainly UK)
Government-approved version for specific immigration pathways
Tip: If your purpose is university admission, choose PTE Academic. For UK visa or immigration, opt for PTE Home/UKVI.
Additionally:
Test Format: Entirely computer-delivered with headset and microphone
What are Pearson PTE Test Eligibility & Requirements
The PTE Exam has simple and inclusive eligibility rules, making it accessible to students and professionals worldwide. There are no strict academic prerequisites, and anyone meeting the basic age and ID criteria can apply for the Pearson PTE Test. Here are the PTE Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students in 2025.
Basic Eligibility Criteria for PTE in India
Minimum Age: 16 years and above
Parental Consent: Required if under 18 years
Academic Qualification: No minimum educational requirement
Valid ID Proof: International passport (mandatory)
Number of Attempts: No limit; you can reattempt anytime after receiving results
With these eligibility criterions, you can definitely appear in the exam and test how much you are proficient in Pearson Test of English.
Documents Required for PTE Registration
To complete registration smoothly, keep these documents ready:
Valid passport (with name, photo, and signature)
Digital photograph (taken at the test centre)
Valid email ID (for receiving score reports and notifications)
Tip: Always ensure your name on the passport matches your registration details to avoid test-day issues.
Unsure if your dream destination accepts PTE? Check the list of PTE accepted countries to see where your score is recognized and plan your next steps with confidence.
The PTE Exam is a fully computer-delivered, task-based test that measures integrated English skills. This section explains the full PTE Test syllabus structure, that is - Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening (including task types, timing) and how each task is scored.
Below table explains the time allotted to each section and which skills are accessed in each section:
Section
Skills Assessed
Duration (Approx.)
Speaking & Writing
Fluency, grammar, pronunciation, and written coherence
54–67 minutes
Reading
Vocabulary, comprehension, and text organization
29–30 minutes
Listening
Note-taking, summarizing, and contextual understanding
30–43 minutes
Total Duration
—
~2 hours
Tip: The PTE Test is completely computer-based — even speaking responses are recorded and scored automatically through Pearson’s AI engine.
Section-Wise PTE Syllabus and Question Types
Each PTE Test section contains a mix of integrated and skill-specific tasks. Below is a section-wise breakdown showing the question types, timing and skills assessed.
Section
Question Types / Tasks
Skills Tested
Speaking & Writing
- Read Aloud - Repeat Sentence - Describe Image - Re-tell Lecture - Answer Short Question - Summarize Written Text - Essay Writing
Pronunciation, oral fluency, grammar, written organization
Reading
- Multiple Choice (Single/Multiple) - Re-order Paragraphs - Fill in the Blanks (Reading) - Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks
Vocabulary, inference, and reading comprehension
Listening
- Summarize Spoken Text - Multiple Choice (Single/Multiple) - Fill in the Blanks (Audio) - Highlight Correct Summary - Select Missing Word - Write from Dictation
Listening accuracy, spelling, and contextual understanding
Summary of Syllabus:
The Speaking & Writing section measures your ability to produce clear and structured responses.
Reading focuses on comprehension, logic, and vocabulary in written English.
Listening evaluates how well you understand and process spoken English from academic and conversational sources.
How to Register for the PTE Exam Online
Registering for the PTE Exam is simple and entirely online through the official Pearson PTE portal. Candidates in India and abroad must create a Pearson account, choose their preferred test type, and book a date and location that fits their schedule. Make sure your passport details match exactly with the registration details to avoid test-day issues.
Steps for Pearson PTE Test Booking
Follow these five easy steps to register for the Pearson Test of English:
1. Visit the Official Website
Go to “www.pearsonpte.com” and click on Book Now.
Create or log in to your Pearson account.
2. Fill in Personal Details
Enter your legal name, date of birth, and contact information exactly as per your passport.
3. Select Test Type and Location
Choose from PTE Academic, PTE Core, or PTE Home/UKVI.
Select your preferred city and test centre in India.
4. Pick a Date and Time Slot
View available slots on the calendar and choose one that suits you.
PTE allows flexible scheduling and last-minute bookings (subject to seat availability).
5. Pay the Exam Fee
Confirm your booking and pay securely online (credit/debit card, UPI, or net banking).
Save your confirmation email and candidate ID for reference.
Tip: Always double-check your passport details before final submission — even a small mismatch can disqualify your booking.
PTE Scoring System Explained
PTE Exam scores are measured on the scale of 10-90. The overall score is calculated using a sophisticated, machine-based scoring system that assesses your performance across all test tasks. The overall score is NOT SIMPLE AVERAGE. It’s based on a weighted algorithm that considers both Communicative Skills and Enabling Skills.
To give an example, if you got 82 in Listening, 87 in Reading, 90 in Speaking and 82 in writing, your arithmetic average will be 85.25 but your actual overall PTE score will be 83 as illustrated in this image:
How PTE Score Corresponds to CEFR Levels?
The PTE Test scores can be bifurcated in specific ranges to correspond to CEFR Levels of language proficiency. CEFR levels have 6 rankings – A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 with A1 at the bottom and C2 being most proficient.
Here is the mapping of PTE Exam scores with CEFR levels:
CEFR Level
PTE Academic Score (Overall)
English Proficiency Level
C2 (Mastery)
85 – 90
Can handle virtually all written and spoken language with ease.
C1 (Advanced)
76 – 84
Can understand complex, longer texts and express ideas fluently and spontaneously for academic or professional purposes.
B2 (Upper Intermediate)
59 – 75
Can understand the main ideas of complex text and interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity. This is often the minimum required for university study.
B1 (Intermediate)
43 – 58
Can understand the main points on familiar matters and deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling.
A2 (Elementary)
30 – 42
Can understand frequently used expressions and exchange information on familiar and routine matters.
A1 (Beginner)
10 – 29
Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases.
Fact: CEFR levels are internationally recognized language proficiency ranking system which puts a individual’s language skills in 6 levels. It not only works for English language but for all languages.
What is a Good PTE Score?
A good PTE score is the one that can be beneficial for you in n-number of ways like getting admissions in a top-ranking international university, get visa of a country or land a job good job. Below table shows what PTE scores can get you in abroad.
Purpose
Recommended Score Range
Remarks
Study Abroad (UG/PG)
58–65
Accepted by most global universities
Top Universities
65–79
Competitive for high-ranking institutions
Immigration / PR
65–79+
Meets many country requirements
Professional Licenses
60+
Common for healthcare and professional bodies
Note: These score ranges are just approximation and general ranges. For accurate score requirements, check the source requirements.
PTE Exam Fees, Dates and Test Centres in India
The cost to sit the PTE Exam in India is set by Pearson and may change from time to time; as of the latest official Pearson information, the standard test fee for PTE Academic (and most UKVI/Academic variants) in India is around ₹18,000 (inclusive of GST). This figure covers the standard booking fee and is the best starting point for budgeting.
Late Booking Fee: ₹850 extra if booked within 48 hours of the test date
Rescheduling:
Free if ≥14 days before test
50% fee if 8–13 days before
No refund if ≤7 days before
Score Validity: 2 years from the test date Results: Usually available within 1–2 business days
PTE Test Centres in Major Indian Cities
PTE exams are conducted in 62 authorized centres across India. Here’s a quick city-wise snapshot:
City
City Centre Availability
New Delhi
Pearson Professional Centre, Global Opportunities
Noida
Pearson Professional Centre – Sector 16A
Mumbai
Andheri East
Bengaluru
MG Road, Lalbagh Road
Hyderabad
Banjara Hills, Kukatpally
Chennai
Multiple authorized centres
Pune
Koregaon Park
Kolkata
Salt Lake City
Ahmadabad
Westgate, Sarkhej
Chandigarh
Elante Offices Block
Coimbatore
Peelamedu
Lucknow
Gomti Nagar
For exact test centre addresses, real-time availability, and approved UKVI centres, always check the official Pearson booking portal.
How to Check Upcoming PTE Exam Dates
To view and book official PTE dates, use the Pearson PTE booking system. Below are the clear steps and quick tips to find and reserve a slot.
Visit the Pearson PTE booking portal (MyPTE / Pearson PTE). Sign in or create an account using a valid email.
Select test type and country (India) — choose the correct test variant (Academic, Core, or UKVI) required by your institution or visa authority.
Search by city or nearest test centre — the portal lists available dates and times for each centre; use the calendar view to compare slots.
Filter & sort — filter by earliest date, weekend slots, or preferred time; some portals allow filtering by “centre with available seats”.
Check fees & policies on the booking screen — confirm the exact fee (including taxes) and review cancellation/reschedule rules before paying.
Pay and confirm — complete payment, save the booking confirmation, and download/print the candidate confirmation (it includes centre address and ID requirements).
If you need a UKVI-approved centre — select “PTE for UKVI” and check for government-approved centre labels in the portal results.
Tip: If your preferred dates show no seats, try nearby cities or check again later — seats are sometimes released when other candidates reschedule.
PTE vs IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Test Should You Choose?
All three English proficiency exams - PTE, IELTS and TOEFL are globally accepted. However, in 2025, many students prefer the Pearson PTE Test for its AI-based scoring, quick results, and fully computer-delivered format. Below is a quick side-by-side comparison to help you decide.
Feature
PTE
IELTS / TOEFL
Mode of Test
Fully computer-based
Paper or computer (IELTS) / Online (TOEFL)
Result Time
1–2 days
5–7 days
Scoring Method
AI-based, unbiased
Human + automated scoring
Score Range
10–90
Band 1–9 (IELTS) / 0–120 (TOEFL)
Duration
Around 2 hours
2 hrs 45 min (IELTS) / 3 hrs (TOEFL)
Recognition
3,000+ universities, 70+ countries
Globally accepted
Retake Policy
After 5 days
After 3–10 days (varies)
Why PTE stands out in 2025:
Fully digital test with automated scoring (no human bias).
Results delivered in 48 hours on average.
Convenient scheduling and rescheduling options.
Accepted for study, work, and migration worldwide.
The PTE Exam continues to be one of the most trusted English proficiency tests for study abroad, migration, and professional licensing in 2025. Its AI-powered scoring, fast results, and flexible scheduling make it a smart choice for Indian students and global applicants alike.
If you’re planning higher studies or immigration, start early — understand the exam pattern, prepare strategically, and book your test date through the official Pearson PTE portal. A strong PTE score not only strengthens your application but also ensures smoother admission and visa processing.
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Expert's Guides for PTE Exam Preparation
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Can I take the PTE Exam from home (remote/online)?
While most PTE test versions require in-centre attendance under strict proctoring, some regions may offer a “PTE Online” or remote-proctored variant. You’ll need to verify availability, eligibility, and technological requirements on the official site.
If I retake the PTE Exam, will my recent score count or the previous one?
Your account retains your test history, but you choose which score reports to send to institutions. Only the scores you authorize will be visible to them.
What happens if there is a technical glitch during the PTE test — can I continue or will my test be invalidated?
If technical issues occur, inform the test-centre administrator immediately. Depending on circumstances, you may be offered a free retake or adjusted arrangement. Always ask for incident documentation.
Can I request a re-score or review of my PTE test if I believe my score is unfair?
Yes, some regions allow a rescore request within a specified window after results are released. Fees may apply. Not all tasks or enabling skills might be eligible for review.
Does the PTE score expire sooner or later for immigration purposes compared to university admission?
Officially, a PTE score is valid for two years. However, specific immigration authorities or universities may have stricter timelines—so check target body’s rules.
Are different test versions scored differently or treated differently in terms of validity and acceptance?
Yes, though the scoring scale (10-90) remains consistent, each test type is designed for different purposes and may have different acceptance, security standards (e.g., UKVI version), and validity rules.
How many questions are there in the PTE Exam?
Unlike some exams, PTE does not specify a fixed number of questions for all candidates; the number varies by test form and section. Institutionally, you should prepare for a range of task types rather than a fixed count.
Is there a penalty (negative marking) for wrong answers or unanswered items in the PTE Exam?
No, the PTE does not employ negative marking in the sense of subtracting marks for incorrect responses. But unanswered or incomplete responses may yield very low or zero credit, so it’s better to attempt everything.
If I change my legal name after the test date, can I still use my PTE score for applications?
Typically yes. You should keep your test-day ID intact and carry documentation of name change. Notify the institution or visa authority about the name difference and supply official legal documents. The PTE body accepts such changes following policy.
Which sub-skills or enabling skills (grammar, pronunciation, fluency) carry the most weight in the PTE scoring algorithm?
The PTE scoring engine analyzes enabling skills such as Grammar, Oral Fluency, Pronunciation, Spelling, Vocabulary and Written Discourse, in addition to the communicative skills. While exact weights are proprietary, performance in enabling skills strongly influences writing and speaking scores.
If a university or employer asks for PTE and I took an older version of the test (pre-2025 format), will it still be accepted?
Generally yes, provided the score is within the validity window and the test type is recognized. However, you must verify the specific version is accepted by your target institution and meets its current criteria.
Can I bring external materials into the PTE test centre?
No, the PTE Test is fully computer-based at authorised centres and you’re provided with required materials (e.g., scratch pad or whiteboard). Personal notes, dictionaries, mobile phones, calculators are prohibited.
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