Like an IELTS exam, Pearson PTE can be used to gain extra language points, for your visa application.
| Points Gained | Pearson PTE | IELTS equivalent |
| 10 | 65+ Communicative Skills scores | Band Score 7s in all 4 papers |
| 20 | 79+ Communicative Skills scores | Band Score 8s in all 4 papers |
Pearson PTE is computer delivered and is also marked by computer. Keyboard skills and speed are therefore a critical factor in time management and accuracy, which contributes to the grammar and spelling marks. However, beware that the delivery of this exam generally takes place in a noisy room with everyone else speaking into microphones, while trying to listen through headphones, at the same time as you!
The exam is primarily designed to test the listening and note-taking skills of potential university students and therefore uses academic vocabulary and questions, throughout. The exam is split into four sections, Speaking (30 -35 minutes), Writing (40 minutes – 1 hour), Listening (45 minutes – 1 hour) and Reading (30 – 40 minutes). Across these sections, marks are awarded for Communicative Skills, corresponding to the four sections above, and also Enabling Skills which include grammar and spelling.
Results are received within 5 working days, from sitting the exam.
