Pearson Test of English (PTE)
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic is a computer-based test which assesses the Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing abilities of non-native speakers of English who need to demonstrate their academic English capability, often to obtain places at English-speaking universities, higher education institutions or as proof of their language ability for a visa application.
PTE Academic is accepted by over 400 world-leading business schools including London Business School, Harvard Business School, Columbia Business School, INSEAD, among others. The test is recognized by over 95% of universities and colleges in the UK. It is also the only English language test preferred and endorsed by GMAC, owners of the GMAT.
Test timings
PTE Academic is 3 hours long and is split into timed parts. When the time is up on the section, the test will move on automatically.
There are 20 different types of task. Some tasks will test integrated skills (e.g. reading AND speaking).
Introduction: untimed
You are asked to introduce yourself. This section is not assessed.
Speaking and writing: 77 – 93 minutes
Reading: 32 – 41 minutes
Break: 10 minutes
The break is optional.
Listening: 45 – 57 minutes
The timings shown are variable. The test will last 3 hours in total.
Scores:
The overall score is a mark out of 90.
According to PTE Academic analysis, the suggestible scores that most universities look for are –
- A minimum score between 51 and 61 for undergraduate studies require
- A minimum score between 57 and 67 for postgraduate studies
- A minimum score between 59 and 69for MBA studies
