Pearson Test of English (PTE) is an international standardized English language proficiency test for non-native English speakers. It is a computer-based online exam; unlike IELTS, you can not choose a paper-based one. It gives you a score between 10-90. It is of three types;
- PTE Academic
- PTE UKVI
- PTE General Training
1. PTE Academic.
The PTE Academic, a test designed for those with dreams of studying abroad, is widely accepted by many countries. However, its recognition primarily depends on the university you are applying to and the score you achieve on your test. It’s not just a test; it’s a key that can unlock the doors to your dream university.
2. PTE General Training.
Now, let’s talk about the PTE General Training. This type of test is specifically designed for those with career goals that involve moving out for employment. It’s not just a test; it’s a stepping stone towards your professional success.
3. PTE UKVI.
This test type is for those students who want to go to the UK.
The PTE test is divided into three parts;
- Speaking & Writing
- Reading
- Listening
Analyzing each section individually:
The speaking & writing portion of the assessment takes 54–67 minutes and encompasses seven distinct question formats. It is the lengthiest segment of the evaluation, assessing your proficiency in speaking and writing using English commonly encountered in academic settings. The type of questions you will be evaluated from are below;
In the speaking module, there will be five types of tasks;
Please take note of the following information:
i) Read Aloud: This segment will include five to six questions.
ii) Read Sentence: You can expect ten to 12 questions in this segment.
iii) Describe Image: This segment will require three to five minutes of your time.
iv) Retell Lecture: Expect to answer one to two questions in this segment.
v) Answer Short Questions: You will be asked five to six questions in this segment.
In the writing module, there will be two types of tasks.
i) Summarize Written Text: This segment will ask you a maximum of one to two questions.
ii) Essay: In this segment, there will be a maximum of one or two topics on which you must write an essay.
The reading module lasts approximately 29 to 40 minutes and comprises roughly five tasks.
Please take note of the following guidelines for the test:
i) Multiple choice, single answer: This section contains one to two questions.
ii) Multiple choice, multiple answers: This section contains one to two questions.
iii) Reading and writing fill-in-the-blanks: This section contains four to six questions.
iv) Reading fill-in-the-blanks: This section contains four to five questions.
v) Re-order paragraph: This section contains two to three questions.
The final segment of the assessment is the listening module, a comprehensive examination lasting approximately 30-43 minutes.
This section comprises eight distinct tasks.
i) Summarize Spoken Text.
ii) Multiple choice, multiple answers.
iii) Multiple choice multiple answers
iv) Highlight the correct Summary.
v) Select missing words
vi) Highlight incorrect words.
vii) Write from dictation
viii) Fill-in-the-blanks
Some tips on how to secure good marks.
- It’s crucial to grasp the test format thoroughly.
- Time management is critical as each section of the exam has a specific time limit.
- Enhancing your listening skills is a priority in this section, as it is relatively more manageable; consider watching English shows to aid in this.
- Improve your writing abilities, so practice by composing an essay daily.
- Familiarize yourself with the exam centre surroundings by simulating the speaking module while recording your practice sessions.
- Work on your vocabulary, make a word list and use these enhanced words in your daily practice.
What is the fee for the Pearson test of English, and how do you book the test?
Pearson has six exam centres across Pakistan. The fee for the Pearson English test is 220 US dollars, which, as of June 2024, will land you around 62000 Pakistani Rupees. To book for the exam, you have to follow the link below.
https://www.pearsonpte.com/test-centers-and-fees
Which one is better, IELTS or PTE?
Well, it’s difficult to answer in one word, so we will compare both benefits.
- More universities than PTE accept IELTS, and the preparation material for it is easily accessible. However, if you really want to test your English skills, you should go for PTE.
- PTE is delivered and examined by AI, so there is no single chance of error.
- The IELTS result is delivered to you after 13 days in a paper test case, and in an online case, it may take up to 5 days, while PTE gives you the result in 48 hours.
- There are more free dates available for PTE than for IELTS.
So, now you have to choose which test to take. Remember, the outcomes of both tests are identical in checking your English proficiency, so you should work on your English.