If you are planning to take the Pearson Test of English, understanding the PTE Test Format is the first step. This guide explains everything about the structure, sections, and scoring to help you feel confident on exam day.
What is the PTE Test?
PTE stands for Pearson Test of English. It checks your English skills for study, work, or immigration. The test is fully computer-based and uses AI to score answers.
Types of PTE Tests
- PTE Academic – For study and professional purposes
- PTE General – For personal and general language development
- PTE UKVI – For UK visa and immigration
In this blog, we will focus on the PTE Academic format.
Overview of the PTE Test Format
The PTE Test Format has three main parts:
- Speaking and Writing
- Reading
- Listening
The whole test takes about 2 hours to complete.
1. Speaking and Writing Section
Duration: 54–67 minutes
This section checks how well you can speak and write in English. You will complete several small tasks.
Tasks in this section:
- Read Aloud
- Repeat Sentence
- Describe Image
- Re-tell Lecture
- Answer Short Question
- Summarize Written Text
- Essay Writing (200–300 words)
Tips:
- Speak clearly and at a normal pace
- Stick to the topic when writing
- Use good grammar and vocabulary
2. Reading Section
Duration: 29–30 minutes
This part checks your reading skills through various question types.
Tasks in this section:
- Multiple Choice – Single Answer
- Multiple Choice – Multiple Answers
- Re-order Paragraphs
- Fill in the Blanks
- Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks
Tips:
- Read questions first to know what to look for
- Practice with academic texts
- Focus on time management
3. Listening Section
Duration: 30–43 minutes
You will listen to audio clips and answer questions based on them. This part checks your understanding of spoken English.
Tasks in this section:
- Summarize Spoken Text
- Multiple Choice – Single Answer
- Multiple Choice – Multiple Answers
- Fill in the Blanks
- Highlight Correct Summary
- Select Missing Word
- Highlight Incorrect Words
- Write from Dictation
Tips:
- Take notes during audio
- Focus on the main idea
- Use headphones during practice
Scoring in the PTE Test Format
- Each skill (Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening) is scored out of 90
- You get a total score out of 90
- AI scoring ensures fair and quick results
- Results are usually available in 2 days
Why Choose PTE?
- Fully computer-based
- Quick results
- Accepted by many universities and governments
- Fair AI scoring system
- Easy booking and many test centers
How to Prepare for the PTE Test
- Use official PTE practice tests
- Improve your English vocabulary
- Work on typing speed and accuracy
- Join online coaching or classes
- Practice listening to English speakers
Conclusion
Understanding the PTE Test Format is the first step to getting a good score. Now that you know what to expect, start your preparation with focus. Use practice tools, stay confident, and give your best on test day.
Read More IELTS Test Format Explained
FAQs
1. How many sections are there in the PTE test?
There are three parts: Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening.
2. Is PTE easier than IELTS?
It depends on your comfort level. PTE is fully computer-based, while IELTS has a face-to-face speaking test.
3. How long is the PTE test?
The total test time is around 2 hours.
4. How is PTE scored?
PTE uses an AI scoring system. Each skill is scored out of 90.
5. Can I take the PTE test from home?
Yes, PTE Academic Online is available in some locations.
