PTE Academic Online: Candidates who have been waiting for Pearson to introduce the 'PTE at Home' version of the PTE Exam are in for a pleasant surprise. Starting October 25, 2021, candidates wanting to take the ‘PTE at Home’ can book their PTE Academic online test which is starting from November 16, 2021. Candidates would also be glad to know that the current PTE Exam would be shortened by one hour also starting November 16, 2021. Know more about the changes being introduced by Pearson PLC Group, as you read along.
PTE Exam gets shorter - to be a 2-hr exam starting November 2021
As per the latest announcement from PTE Pearson PLC Group, Academic PTE Test Duration, PTE Score Reports and PTE Preparation Resources are going to have a whole new look, come November 16, 2021. Let us check out the changes that are being introduced by Pearson.
Academic PTE Test Duration
As we are all aware that the current Academic PTE Test Duration is for three hours, this has been shortened to two hours. Candidates must be curious to know the direct implication it would have on the PTE exam pattern. This can be found below. Candidates should note that these changes are only effective for PTE Exams being held from November 16, 2021, onwards.
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PTE Exam Pattern Changes
The table below shows us the current PTE exam pattern and the newly introduced PTE exam pattern to be effective starting November 16, 2021.
PTE Exam Format |
PTE Test Duration Current Format (previous) |
PTE Test Duration (starting November 16, 2021) |
---|---|---|
Personal Introduction |
1 minute |
No Change |
PTE Speaking and Writing Section |
77 – 93 minutes |
54 – 67 minutes |
PTE Reading Section |
32 – 41 minutes |
29 – 30 minutes |
Optional Scheduled Break |
10 minutes |
Removed |
PTE Listening Section |
45 – 57 minutes |
30 – 43 minutes |
It is pretty obvious, that due to the shortening of the PTE test, there would also be changes in the number of questions being asked for every section. Check out how the shortening of the PTE Academic test is altering the number of questions being asked per topic of a PTE exam section, below.
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PTE Speaking and Writing Section - Changes
The table below shows us the current and new PTE Speaking and Writing Section Question Topics and the number of questions per topic that would be tested during the PTE exam.
PTE Speaking and Writing Section Question Topics |
PTE Question Format (previous) |
PTE Question Format (starting November 16, 2021) |
---|---|---|
Personal introduction |
1 |
1 |
Read Aloud |
6 - 7 |
6 - 7 |
Repeat sentence |
10 - 12 |
10 - 12 |
Describe image |
6 - 7 |
3 - 4 |
Retell lecture |
3 - 4 |
1 - 2 |
Answer short question |
10 - 12 |
5 - 6 |
Summarize written text |
2 - 3 |
1 - 2 |
Write Essay |
1 - 2 |
1 - 2 |
Total Questions |
39 - 48 |
28 - 36 |
Time Allocation |
77 - 93 minutes |
54 - 67 minutes |
PTE Reading Section – Changes
The table below shows us the current and new PTE Reading Section Question Topics and the number of questions per topic that would be tested during the PTE exam.
PTE Reading Section Question Topics |
PTE Question Format (previous) |
PTE Question Format (starting November 16, 2021) |
---|---|---|
Fill in the blanks –reading & writing |
5 - 6 |
5 - 6 |
Multiple choice, multiple answers |
2 - 3 |
1 - 2 |
Re-order paragraph |
2 - 3 |
2 - 3 |
Fill in the blanks –reading |
4 - 5 |
4 - 5 |
Multiple-choice, single answer |
2 - 3 |
1 - 2 |
Total Questions |
15 - 20 |
13 - 18 |
Time Allocation |
32 - 41 minutes |
29 - 30 minutes |
PTE Listening Section – Changes
The table below shows us the current and new PTE Listening Section Question Topics and the number of questions per topic that would be tested during the PTE exam.
PTE Listening Section Question Topics |
PTE Question Format (previous) |
PTE Question Format (starting November 16, 2021) |
---|---|---|
Summarize spoken text |
2 - 3 |
1 - 2 |
Multiple choice, multiple answers |
2 - 3 |
1 - 2 |
Fill in the blanks |
2 - 3 |
2 - 3 |
Highlight correct summary |
2 - 3 |
1 - 2 |
Multiple-choice, single answer |
2 - 3 |
1 - 2 |
Select missing word |
2 - 3 |
1 - 2 |
Highlight incorrect word |
2 - 3 |
2 - 3 |
Write from Dictation |
3 - 4 |
3 - 4 |
Total Questions |
15 - 22 |
12 - 20 |
Time Allocation |
45 - 57 minutes |
30 - 43 minutes |
source: Pearson | PTE Academic
Also, Read
PTE Score Report Changes
As mentioned earlier, PTE Score Reports being issued after November 16, 2021, would also undergo changes. The PTE Score reports would present the candidates' PTE scores in an uncluttered manner. The Enabling Skills score will no longer be available in the new format of the PTE test score. Kindly note that the score report being issued prior to November 16, 2021, would not have the changes on them. Below is a representation of the previous PTE score report and the new PTE score report only available from November 16, onwards.
source: Pearson | PTE Academic
PTE Preparation Resources
Candidates should note that there are no changes in the PTE preparation but only upgrades have been introduced for the benefit of the candidates wanting to take the PTE exam. Let us get familiar with the tools that have been introduced to make the PTE test more accessible for candidates wanting to take the exam.
- Official PTE Academic App: Test takers can download the official PTE Academic App that prioritizes key practice activities and includes a study planner to help them get organized.
- PTE Question Bank: We cannot stress enough the importance of solving PTE academic question papers candidates can get access to over 300 authentic PTE Academic questions with answers and sample responses to strengthen their PTE exam performance.
- PTE Course Book: The PTE coursebook would include everything learners need to know to become familiar with task types and guidance on managing computer-based tests and preparation strategies.
- PTE Courses: Candidates can opt for free online courses that provide guided learning, advice and practice to help learners learn new skills and strategies. Candidates can also get feedback on their performance from a teacher.
Read: The Future of IELTS, PTE, GRE & TOEFL exams in the face of COVID-19
PTE to launch PTE at Home test starting November 16, 2021
PTE Home Testing: With the onset of the covid-19 pandemic, exams have been shifted from the test centre to the safety of the home. Locally imposed lockdowns and safety protocols have only furthered exams to be held in the safety of the test takers' homes. In sync with the current environment, Pearson VLC Group, the conducting body of the PTE exam has also launched the PTE Academic online - a convenient reliable testing solution from the safety of your home - in short, PTE Home Testing. The PTE at Home is the PTE Academic Online Test that will be conducted from the safety of the home. However, there are certain important factors that have to be kept in mind before registering for the PTE at Home test. Candidates can check out the PTE Home Testing guide to understand it in detail.
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PTE Score for Australia PR |
PTE Exam Preparation
PTE Exam Preparation: Candidates looking to perform well in their PTE Academic Exam would be required to follow a solid PTE Preparation plan to achieve a good PTE score. Read on as we divulge in detail about PTE exam preparation, PTE preparation online, PTE preparation material, and PTE exam preparation at home among other important topics revolving around PTE preparation.
Similar to other exam prep, you can choose to study on your own or join a PTE coaching centre for your PTE preparation. The decision lies entirely to you, as you need to see whether you have enough time and resources to opt for both or select either. Newer methods of studying are gaining popularity, like PTE preparation online. It includes both self-studying and coaching class methods. You join a virtual classroom and you learn in the comfort of your home. To choose the best method to prepare for the PTE test you first need to look at your criteria and decide accordingly. Candidates can also check out PTE Sample Papers.
Related Reads
PTE prep tips: Reading Section | |
PTE Academic Writing Section Tips and Tricks | PTE Speaking Section - Tips and Tricks |
Top 10 PTE Exam Preparation Tips 2023
PTE Preparation: A lot of times PTE test takers are often confused about the direction of their PTE preparation plan. Fear no more. We have come up with a personalized top 10 PTE exam preparation guide for candidates looking to ace their PTE test. Check out the top 10 PTE exam preparation tools provided below:
- Plan ahead
- Know what you're getting into
- Take lots of practice tests
- Start studying vocabulary
- Focus on your subject
- Don't ignore the other subject
- Use good materials
- Know question types
- Keep an error log
- Plan on taking the exam twice
We would love to hear from you. Do write your views in the comments section below.
Related Reads
Q: Which is better IELTS or PTE?
Both IELTS and PTE are English proficiency tests required to study abroad in countries where the native language is English. However, the comparison between the two will depend entirely on the student’s preferences and purpose of taking the test. Below are a few points that can help you make clear choices.
Acceptance: IELTS is more widely accepted worldwide while PTE is less acceptable. However, the latter is getting increasingly accepted by more and more institutions and organisations in the world owing to its faster processing time. Both the exams are accepted for Australian student visas and migration applications.
Exam Pattern: Both the IELTS and PTE exams comprise the Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking sections. However, the duration and the sequence of assessing these 4 core English language skills differ in both exams.
The IELTS exam assesses Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes) and Writing (60 minutes) skills in a sequence while Speaking (10-14 minutes) is assessed face-to-face by a real examiner. This is done on a different date from the actual IELTS exam, maybe till a week later. You may expect to get your IELTS exam results after 1 or 2 weeks of taking the exam depending on the type of exam you opted for (on-paper or computer-based).
On the contrary, the sequence of assessment of these core skills in the PTE exam is Speaking and Writing (50 - 67 minutes), Reading (30 minutes) and Listening 30-45 minutes. The total duration of the exam is 2 hours and test takers can expect to see their results within 48 hours of taking the exam.
Assessment: The Speaking section in the IELTS exam is assessed separately in real-time by the English experts in a face-to-face round which is often conducted a week after your IELTS exam date.
The Speaking section in the PTE exam is assessed along with the Writing section which is a more natural way to assess test taker’s skills. The speaking section along with all other sections are completed online, on the computer and are assessed by artificial intelligence.
Release of Results: PTE releases its test results within 48 hours of taking the test. However, the IELTS exam result can take around a week's or 2 weeks' time to get relesaed. IELTS scores are generated by English experts who compare your performance with the global standards while PTE uses an automated scoring system by using AI.
These factors may help you arrive at your decision of which exam to choose from for your academic endeavours.
Q: Which practice tests are best for candidates looking to appear for their PTE Academic test?
Candidates are advised to refer to PTE Academic Practice Papers available on the official PTE Academic website. Candidates are highly advised to only take information from trusted sources such as the official PTE Academic website and our preparatory guide.
Q: Why choose PTE over other English tests?
Compared to other English tests like IELTS and TOEFL, the PTE exam boasts several advantages, listed below:
- Faster results: Ideal for tight deadlines, the PTE test results are available within 2 business days from the date of taking your exam.
- Flexible testing: You can choose your preferred exam date and time slot almost year-round, even 24 hours before your desired exam date.
- AI-powered scoring: Your PTE exam is scored based on computer-based evaluation for consistent results. This removes any and all chances of bias and human errors.
- Wider question variety: Encounter diverse question types, testing your English skills in practical contexts.
- Interactive speaking & writing: Respond to real-time prompts, simulating natural everyday communication in an academic setting.
- Friendly and safe test centres: The safety and convenience of the PTE test takers is of utmost importance to the exam authorities which is why multiple test centres are available across a country or even city with each one of these not accommodating more than 10 candidates at a time.
- Growing popularity and acceptance: The PTE test is accepted at 3500+ universities worldwide with instiotutions including the University of Oxford, Harvard University and the Yale University.
Q: Has the PTE Academic exam become tougher over the years?
The PTE test has evolved over the years to stay relevant to the demands of the university and students. However, rest assured the main focus of the PTE Academic test has remained the same, i.e. to assess your academic-level English speaking, writing, reading and listening skills.
Q: What is the difference between PTE Academic, PTE UKVI, and PTE Home?
The PTE Academic Exam is for students looking to apply to universities and institutions abroad. The PTE Academic UKVI is for UK visa applications requiring a 4-skill language test. The PTE Home is for UK family and work visa applications and is different from the PTE at-home exam.
Q: Is PTE easier than IELTS?
Both the PTE Academic and IELTS have been designed to understand the English language proficiency of the candidate. They have been designed to test the writing, speaking reading, and listening skills of the test taker. Hence, both the tests are at par with each other and the candidate should opt for the one he is comfortable in. However, there are some points of differences that must be noted when making a decision, these are:
- The PTE exam (2 hours) is shorter than the IELTS exam (3 hours).
- All the segments (sections) of a PTE exam are tested within a day, in a single sitting. However, the different sections in an IELTS exam are assessed on different days.
- The IELTS exam tests speaking, listening, reading and writing proficiencies in the English language separately, which may not be appropriate for testing the real-life comprehension abilities of the test-taker. On the other side, the PTE exam tests all these skills simultaneously based on the belief that successful communication is developed by combining all these skills together.
- Your performance in a PTE exam is judged by AI, which leaves little to no room for human errors and any sort of bias. the scores awarded in this manner are mostly accurate. While, in an IELTS exam, a human examiner is present to test your overall English proficiency.
- Results can be expected within two days of taking the PTE exam, while the IELTS exam results are released later.
Q: Which PTE exam centre is best for Indian students?
There is no exact choice of the PTE test centre that fits the "best" for all students. Students must look for and choose a centre which is the nearest to their current place of residence and is easily accessible. For this reason, start looking for a PTE test centre within your city.
However, if there is no PTE exam centre within your city then, select the one where you can travel to easily without getting late for your PTE exam. This is because if you miss out on appearing in the PTE exam at your chosen time slot then, you will have to book your PTE exam slot again along with re-paying the PTE exam fee.
Q: Which is better - IELTS, TOEFL or PTE?
Each of these exams - PTE (Pearson Test of English), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) - are widely accepted for studying abroad. However, which exam will be most suitable for you depends on several conditions. Below are some parameters that you can consider to make the best decision.
Difference between IELTS, TOEFL and PTE | |||
---|---|---|---|
Parameters | IELTS | TOEFL | PTE |
Time duration | 2 hours 44 minutes, with speaking test on a separate day | 2 hours, all 4 skills assessed the same day | 2 hours, all 4 skills assessed the same day |
Fees | INR 17,000 | INR 16,900 | INR 17,000 |
Scoring | 0-9 band scale | 0-120 scale | 10-90 scale |
Results declaration | Pen and Paper Test: 13 days Computer-based Test at the test centre: 1-5 days | 4-8 days | 2 days |
Scoring Criteria | Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking
| reading, writing, listening and speaking | Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking along with oral and written fluency, pronunciation, spelling and vocabulary |
Exam Mode | Pen and Paper based and Computer-based (online) | Pen and Paper based and Computer-based (online) | Computer-based (online) only |
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