In this guide, we will explain what is PTE, PTE curriculum, scoring process and compare it with other English competitive exams.
What is PTE?
Pearson Test of English (PTE) is the World’s first computerized test for English language. This online examination remains highly regarded as one of the most reliable assessments, trusted by over 3000+ universities worldwide. The main goal of PTE is to assess the language proficiency of individuals.
The test result is determined by considering various parameters, including a candidate’s abilities in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. This test is applicable in several countries, such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Let’s find out the types of PTE tests, what is PTE, fees, eligibility criteria, and test dates.
Types of PTE Tests
Here are the types of PTE Academic and PTE General exam tests:
Speaking and writing: This assesses the examinee’s writing and time management proficiency. The types of questions that are asked in this section are :
- Personal Introduction
- Read Aloud
- Repeat Sentence
- Describe Image
- Re-tell Lecture
- Answer Short Question
- Summarise Written Text
- Essay
Reading: This test determines the understanding of the language and mostly consists of short answers. The types of questions in this test includes:
- Fill in the Blanks
- Multiple Choice Questions
- Re-order Paragraphs
- Fill in the Blanks
- Multiple Choice, Single Answer
Listening: This leads to checking fluency and ability to communicate in this language, which is one of the most important parts of fulfilling the motive behind this test. It comprises of
- Summarise Spoken Text
- Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
- Fill in the Blanks
- Highlight Correct Summary
- Multiple Choice, Single Answer
- Select Missing Ward
- Highlight Incorrect Words
- Write from Dictation
According to reports and results of various candidates that have already given their exam and the average scores of randomly chosen 100 tests given under the PTE eligibility criteria, the most difficult section is sought to be the reading section which is followed by the writing section. Hence it is advisable to put extra effort into these 2 sections for a commendable result.
PTE Eligibility
The eligibility for this exam is different for the two types.
- PTE Academic: This exam is for students who wish to study in foreign countries but are non-native English speakers. The candidates should be at least 16 years old, and there is no requirement for a mandatory education level or experience.
- PTE General: This exam is designed for people who need to prove their efficiency in the language for a job or personal reasons. It does not have any minimum age limit or basic education barrier.
PTE Score
The score of this exam is completely computerized and based on the global English scale. This calculation has a range of 10-90, with the lowest score as 10 and successive addition of a point henceforth.
If an examinee scores between 74-84, the score is said to lie in the very good range and is marked as a good performance. Following that, the score of 73-77 is a good score. On average, a score of 50-63 is considered a mediocre score that doesn’t completely ensure admission of the student. To obtain desired results, you can refer to various resources like sample books or referral questions to enhance practice and improve results drastically.
This score is calculated completely by automated responses and artificial intelligence. The questions are randomly generated, which means that no 2 question papers are identical, which proves the reliability and correctness of PTE Tests. Since the results are computerized, it is time effective and shows them typically within 2 days. This AI scoring system is regularly checked and upgraded to avoid any discrepancies that might arise in the PTE Tests.
These responses are compared with innumerable applicants from across the world, providing an accurate and unbiased view of where the candidate stands amongst the rest of its competitors. This test includes approximately 50-70 questions and takes around 2 hours to complete. Afterward, you can wait for the result to show on the registration screen.
These scores can be shared with as many universities as possible without restrictions to prove your proficiency in the English language. A good PTE score increases the probability of bagging a high-ticket scholarship in a deemed university.
There are two ways of scoring in the PTE Examination
- Correct or incorrect: Here, there is no confusion between the right or wrong answer, and hence there is a +1 increment for a correct answer, and there is no negative marking for an incorrect answer.
- Partial credit: If the answer written is partially correct and not completely, marks are given lesser than the maximum possible depending upon the answer written. This usually happens with subjective answers from the writing section.
The PTE Score is divided into further 2 subsections that include
- Communication skills: consists of reading, writing, speaking, and listening on the given scale of 10-90. These skills are highly valued when it comes to visa entries and interviews
- Enabling skills: It checks grammatical accuracy, sentence formation, and manner of writing. They are solely dependent on performance and highly affect the overall score.
PTE Exam Dates
This examination is conducted throughout the year, which puts the applicants at ease to opt for any date that suits them the most. It is advisable for all aspiring candidates to keep a clear check on the upcoming PTE dates of the exam without missing out on any opportunity whatsoever.
Most countries have resumed the process of examining after the pandemic of COVID 19 other than these few countries who are still making their way out to stability:
- Afghanistan
- Albania
- Brunei Darussalam
- Croatia
- Latvia
- Sierra Leone
PTE in Comaparison to Other Examinations
This exam makes the visa application procedure dream of studying abroad easier with just the help of an English exam. Compared to IELTS, which is another English proficiency assessment, PTE is found to be harder in terms of questions asked but easier when it comes to scoring. Since this exam is computerized, there is no chance of human error or bias, and it successfully tests the elementary features of the candidate. For more information on IELTS, check out our blog: Know all about IELTS.
Compared to TOEFL, where there are more MCQs and the candidate needs to speak to the computer more often, making it slightly harder.
If you are looking to appear for the PTE exam in Dubai, DG Training is a leading training institute that will help you achieve your goal.
FAQs
How can I Score good marks in PTE?
To score good marks in PTE, you must keep in mind the format of the examination and be well prepared with the types of questions that might be asked.
- Start by noting down all the information about the exam, including the PTE dates, in one place and create a self-study plan.
- Read the questions carefully before answering and stay focused throughout the examination.
- Practice a considerable amount of questions to get comfortable with the exam style.
- Note down all the keywords you’ll be using before starting to write an essay to avoid shifting from the topic.
- Practice listening and understanding native English accents during practice and time management.
What is the exam fee and mode of payment?
The fee for this exam is AED 1150, and if a student wishes to reschedule the exam before 7 days of the actual date of examination, an extra 25% fee has to be paid.
This amount can be paid through Visa, MasterCard, and American Express Credit Cards, and candidates can also avail of the PTE Voucher code while making the payment. This voucher is also available on the official website of PTE.
What does the PTE Score Report Include?
The PTE report, which is completely computerized, has the following sections.
- Personal details and photo
- A descriptive explanation of the results
- Overall score and individual part scores
- Test taker ID and Registration ID
How long is the PTE Score valid?
This academic report issued by Pearson has a validity of 2 years. But considering study purposes, the required validity can be extended to 3 years for immigration and the potential of permanent residency in the country applied to.
Is there any official guide issued by Pearson for PTE
Yes, there is an official guide issued by the exam conducting body itself which is considered as the best option by the test takers:
- It includes all the necessary information about the syllabus and prerequisites to give the examination
- It has an immensely detailed explanation of the exam pattern and the significance of each section.
- It also has preparation strategies that help the candidates to overcome any hurdle that crosses their path and work on their strong points.
It contains a glossary of all the helpful academic PTE terms, making studying and revising equally easier for the candidate.
