What is PTE Academic? Format, Sections, Duration

What is PTE Academic?

PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic) is a computer-based English proficiency test designed for non-native speakers seeking to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries. Accepted for thousands of universities, immigration applications across Australia, NZ, UK, USA, Canada, and 70+ other countries.

Test Duration

About 2 hours total, taken in a single sitting at a Pearson-approved test centre. No breaks between sections (one optional 10-minute break is offered around the midpoint).

The 4 Sections

1. Speaking + Writing combined (54–67 minutes):
   • Personal Introduction (not scored, sent to institutions)
   • Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Describe Image, Re-tell Lecture, Answer Short Question, Summarise Group Discussion
   • Summarise Written Text, Write Essay
2. Reading (29–30 minutes):
   • Multiple Choice Single + Multiple Answers
   • Re-order Paragraphs
   • Reading Fill in the Blanks (drag) + Reading & Writing Fill in the Blanks (dropdown)
3. Listening (30–43 minutes):
   • Summarise Spoken Text, Multiple Choice Single + Multiple Answers
   • Fill in the Blanks, Highlight Correct Summary, Highlight Incorrect Words
   • Select Missing Word, Write from Dictation

Scoring Scale

0–90 (whole numbers). You receive an overall score plus four section scores. There are also "enabling skills" sub-scores (grammar, oral fluency, pronunciation, spelling, vocabulary, written discourse) that diagnose specific weaknesses.

How Scoring Works

All scoring is automated by Pearson's AI engine — no human assessors. Speaking and writing responses are evaluated for content, fluency, grammar, and pronunciation. Reading and listening are auto-marked. See How AI Scoring Works for the deep dive.

When You Get Results

Score reports are available typically within 2 business days via your Pearson account. Sometimes faster, occasionally up to 5 days during peak periods.

Cost

~$190–$220 USD depending on country (~₹15,500–₹17,500 in India). See PTE Test Fees by Country.

Validity

Standard validity: 2 years from the test date. Australian skilled migration accepts 3-year validity for some visa classes.

Practice on ClearMyPTE

Get familiar with the format with unlimited Speaking practice and full-length mock exams. See also PTE Academic vs PTE Core if you're unsure which test you need.

Source: pearsonpte.com. Verify the current format before booking your exam.