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PTE Exam Pattern 2025: New Changes, Format, Structure, Marking Scheme
Edited By Prabhjyot Kaur | Updated on Jun 16, 2025 09:53 AM IST | #PTE Academic
The PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic exam assesses English language proficiency through reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. Each section of the PTE exam pattern has a specific time allocated and offers diverse question types. The PTE exam is scored on a range between 10 and 90. It is a two-hour computer based test with three sections Speaking & Writing (54-67 minutes), Reading (29-30 minutes), and Listening (30-43 minutes). PTE Academic is accepted by over 3,500 universities and colleges globally for study, and in Australia and New Zealand it is also accepted for work and migration visas. The PTE exam includes 20 different question types to assess the 4 key English skills: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. It is crucial for students to understand the PTE exam structure to pass the test with good scores. Read further for a complete guide on PTE Academic test format in 2025.
This Story also Contains
- PTE Exam Pattern 2025
- PTE Exam Latest Updates 2025
- PTE Test Format 2025
- Section Wise PTE Exam Pattern 2025
- PTE Reading Format
- PTE Listening Pattern
- PTE Syllabus 2025
- PTE Registration 2025
- PTE Exam Dates 2025
- PTE Scoring Pattern 2025
- PTE Score Validity
- How many times can I retake PTE?
- PTE Practice Tests 2025
- PTE Exam Preparation
PTE Exam Pattern 2025
Details | PTE New Format 2025 |
PTE exam type | PTE Academic Exam |
PTE Exam Duration | 2 hours |
Exam mode | Home / Test Centre |
Medium | Computer-based test |
Assessment | English language proficiency |
Number of Questions | 52-64 |
PTE Exam Latest Updates 2025
As per the latest PTE updates, the PTE pattern and syllabus have been revised. As per the PTE latest updates, the exam will assess the English language skills through an AI evaluation. In addition, the duration of the PTE exam is shorter than before and no break will be provided in between the exam. Read the complete article to learn more about the latest PTE exam pattern 2025, testing modes, question formats, duration, PTE structure 2025, and scoring of each section in detail. Knowing the PTE exam changes 2025 will help you prepare well for the exam. Some of the latest changes in the PTE new format 2025 are listed below. It is important to understand the PTE updates which are as follows.
- PTE Academic got shorter: The total PTE exam duration has been reduced to 2 hours.
- Fewer Questions: The PTE new format 2025 now includes fewer questions compared to previous years. The 'Multiple Choice – Choose Single Answer' and 'Re-order Paragraphs' tasks have been decreased in the reading section. The 'Describe Image' task has been removed from the Speaking and Writing section.
- No Breaks: As per the PTE changes 2025, there are no breaks in between sections.
- Automated Scoring: The PTE exam uses an automated scoring system that evaluates candidates' responses based on their accuracy, fluency, pronunciation, and overall language ability.
- AI-Powered Exam Tools: AI-powered tools are now used throughout the exam to streamline processes and provide a more efficient testing experience.
PTE Test Format 2025
The PTE Academic is a computer-based English test that can be taken at home and at PTE test centres. There is no difference in the PTE format 2025 for the home-based and test centre exam. Similarly, there is no change in the latest PTE exam pattern and syllabus for PTE Academic and PTE UKVI Academic.
| Parts | Question Types | PTE Exam Duration |
| Speaking & Writing | 7 different question types | 54–67 min |
| Reading | 5 different question types | 29–30 min |
| Listening | 8 different question types - based on video and audio clips | 30–43 min |
The overall PTE testing time is approximately 2 hours.
Section Wise PTE Exam Pattern 2025
PTE exam pattern has 3 sections, namely, Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing. All 3 sections of the PTE exam can be taken in one single sitting. The section wise PTE pattern is mentioned below.
PTE Speaking and Writing Format
The Speaking and Writing Section is 54–67 minutes long and includes seven different question types. It is the longest section in the PTE Exam. Candidates will be tested on their English speaking and writing skills.
PTE Speaking and Writing Question Types
Question Type | PTE Questions Per Task | Task | Time Allotted |
Personal Introduction | 1 | Read the prompt and prepare a response. Only this question in this section is unscored. | 30 seconds to record |
Read Aloud | 6 - 7 | Read out the given text which is 60 words. | Varies |
Repeat sentence | 10 - 12 | Listen to a sentence recording and repeat | 15 seconds |
Describe Image | 3 - 4 | Describe the displayed image in detail. | 40 seconds |
Re-tell Lecture | 1 - 2 | Listen/watch a lecture and describe it own words | 40 seconds |
Answer the short question | 5 - 6 | Listen to the question and answer it in a single or few words | 10 seconds |
Summarise the written text | 1 - 2 | Read the text of up to 300 words and write the summary in one sentence. | 10 minutes |
Write essay | 1 - 2 | Write an essay of 200 to 300 words on a given topic | 20 minutes |
| Total Questions | 28 - 36 | Time Allotted | 54 - 67 minutes |
Also Read
PTE Academic Preparation Tips
In order to achieve a good score in your PTE Academic test you will need to have a preparation strategy in place.
DownloadPTE Reading Format
The PTE test pattern for this section includes 5 types of questions. This section of the PTE exam is allotted 29-30 minutes. To assess the candidate's ability to understand what is written, the PTE reading section is created. As the PTE exam is an integrated test, the fill in the blank question type under the PTE reading section assesses both the reading and writing skills of the candidate. Read along to understand the PTE exam format 2025 for the reading section.
Question Type | PTE Questions per task | Task | Prompt Length |
| Reading and Writing - Fill in the blanks | 5 - 6 | Fill out the gaps in the text (300 words) using the words in the box below it. Drag the words and drop them into the gaps. | 300 words |
Multiple-Choice, Choose Single Answer | 1 - 2 | Read the text and answer the MCQs by selecting only one option. | 300 words |
Multiple-Choice, Choose Multiple Answers | 2 - 3 | Read the text and answer the MCQs by selecting more than one option. | 300 words |
Re-order Paragraphs | 4 - 5 | Arrange the text boxes in random order to the correct order. | 150 words |
Fill in the blanks | 1 - 2 | Fill out the gaps in the text using the words in the box below it. Drag the words and drop them in the gaps. | 80 words |
| Total Questions | 13 - 18 | Time Allotted: 29 - 30 mins |
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PTE Listening Pattern
The PTE listening section consists of questions based on several audio or video clips. There are a total of 8 different types in the PTE syllabus of the listening section. Candidates get to hear each audio or video clip only once and are allowed to take notes. Based on the length of recordings, each question in the listening section, according to the PTE pattern 2025, has a fixed time. The listening section of the PTE exam is 30-43 minutes long.
Question Type | PTE Questions per task | Task | Time Allotted |
Summarize spoken text | 1 - 2 | Listen to the recording and write a summary of 50-70 words. | 60-90 seconds |
Multiple choice, choose multiple answers | 1 - 2 | Listening to the recording. Then answer the MCQs by selecting more than one response | 40-90 seconds |
Fill in the blanks | 2 - 3 | The transcript of a recording appears on the screen with several gaps. Candidates can listen and simultaneously type the missing words in the gaps. | 30-60 seconds |
Highlight correct summary | 1 - 2 | Listen to the recording and select the paragraph that gives the best summary of the recording. | 30-90 seconds |
Multiple choice, choose a single answer | 1 - 2 | Listening to the recording. Then answer the MCQs by selecting only one response. | 30-90 seconds |
Select missing word | 1 - 2 | Listening to a recording. Select the missing word that completes the recording from the given list of options | 20-70 seconds |
Highlight incorrect words | 2 - 3 | The transcript of a recording appears on the screen. Candidates can listen to the recording and simultaneously identify the words that are incorrect in the transcript. | 15-50 seconds |
Write from dictation | 3 - 4 | Listen to a recording of a sentence and then type it. | 3-5 seconds |
| Total Questions | 12 - 20 | Time Allotted | 30 - 43 mins |
Candidates are advised to read the instructions before attempting any PTE section and understand the PTE 2025 changes. Make sure to follow the word limit provided in the PTE exam 2025.
PTE Syllabus 2025
After understanding the PTE test pattern for the academic year 2025, students need to understand the PTE syllabus as well. The syllabus is curated in such a way that it assesses the 4 main skills required to prove English proficiency. These skills include speaking, writing, reading, and listening. However, the PTE exam syllabus 2025 is structured into 3 main sections: Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening. PTE is a 2-hour, computer-based exam and includes tasks like writing essays, fill in the blanks, reading aloud, reordering paragraphs, etc. All the sections under the PTE syllabus 2025 assess skills required to study or work abroad.
PTE Registration 2025
Students must know how to register for PTE after learning about the PTE pattern 2025. Follow the steps mentioned below to successfully apply for the PTE Academic online on the Pearson's website.
Step 1: Visit the official PTE website on mypte.pearsonpte.com.
Step 2: Create an account on the PTE website using accurate information.
Step 3: Fill in the personal and academic information while creating the account. Make sure you provide accurate details.
Step 4: Select the preferred PTE test date and test centre.
Step 5: Book the PTE slot by clicking on confirm.
Step 6: Pay the PTE exam fee 2025 using American Express, Discover, Mastercard, or Visa.
Step 7: Get the confirmation of PTE registration at your registered email address.
PTE Exam Dates 2025
After understanding the PTE exam pattern, it is necessary to select a PTE exam date. It is very convenient for international students to book a slot for the PTE test date online on the official website of Pearson. The PTE Academic exam is offered at authorized test centers multiple times a week. Interested candidates can choose from various timeslots available on weekdays and weekends. The PTE General exam is held three times a year, in May, June, and December. However, whether you will get the desired PTE exam date at the desired test centre depends on the test centre's availability. Students applying abroad should schedule their PTE exam ahead of time, making sure not to miss the university's admission deadlines.
PTE Scoring Pattern 2025
The PTE test scoring is automated. This means that PTE exam has 20 auto-scored questions. The total PTE scores range from 10 to 90. The scoring in the PTE academic exam pattern is done by measuring the skills of listening, speaking, reading, writing, etc. Each section (Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening) is scored separately. The overall PTE score is calculated by adding up the scores from each section.
Few questions in the PTE exam 2025 are scored based on correct or incorrect answers, while some are scored on a partial credit basis. In the correct or incorrect scoring, if the answer is correct, then 1 score point is given, and if it is incorrect, zero score points are given. However, the partial credit is measured based on correctness, word limit, fluency, pronunciation, etc. Some questions, like essay writing, are assessed by a human expert before automating the score.
PTE Score Validity
PTE exam 2025 scores are valid for up to 2 years after the announcement of the result. Candidates can send their PTE scorecards to various institutions for up to 2 years.
What is a Good PTE Score?
The Pearson Test of English does not have a "good" score. The required score for successful admission abroad varies depending on the specific requirements of each university. The PTE Academic score range is from 10 to 90. A score between 50 and 63 is generally considered satisfactory.
However, for admission at top-tier universities abroad, aim for a score between 65 and 75 or higher. While some universities may accept scores around 65 or even lower, such as 55-60, many well-established universities often seek candidates with scores above 75. In general, a PTE score of 65-75 is considered acceptable, typically fulfilling the admission requirements for top colleges.
According to the Pearson's website, the following PTE score range is acceptable.
- Foundation courses: 36-50
Undergraduate degrees: 51-60
Postgraduate degrees: 57-67
How many times can I retake PTE?
PTE is offered multiple times a week at different test centres around the world, including India. Students must note that there is no such restriction on retaking the PTE in the same month. However, they can only appear for the PTE exam 12 times in a year. Hence, students can retake the PTE 12 times in a year. If the test taker is unsatisfied with their previous PTE test score in 2025, they can schedule a retake approximately 5 days after the previous attempt.
PTE Practice Tests 2025
Candidates can check out the latest PTE exam pattern PDF to better understand the course. In addition, it is advisable to prepare for the PTE exam 2025 by working on the PTE practice tests. The PTE test online provides the correct exam environment to the candidate, where they can practice time management and other important skills. This will also help them understand how to crack the PTE exam format 2025 and score high in each section individually.
PTE Exam Preparation
To effectively prepare for the PTE exam 2025, it is important to understand the PTE syllabus and exam pattern. In addition, it is advisable to take a systematic approach when preparing for the exam. Here are some PTE exam preparation guidelines.
Familiarise yourself with the PTE 2025 format, including the types of tasks included in each section and the time allocated to each task.
Set aside some time to practice each section of the exam. Students can refer to the study materials, like practice tests, sample questions, and online materials, to improve their knowledge and skills.
Candidates should focus on vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and comprehension.
Consistently read English texts, listen to podcasts or audiobooks, and interact with people in English.
Take mock tests regularly to become familiar with the exam environment and learn time management skills. This will help students to identify their strengths and areas of improvement.
Learn effective ways to address multiple tasks, such as skimming and scanning materials, taking notes, and prioritising tasks based on their level of difficulty, to understand the PTE 2025 format better.
Use authorised PTE preparation resources, including practice exams, study guides, and internet resources, to improve your PTE preparation.
Students must begin their preparations early in advance to have enough time for practice and improvement as per the PTE 2025 format.
By following these guidelines and adding a structured study plan to their preparation, aspirants can improve their chances of clearing the PTE Academic exam. The PTE exam pattern PDF can be viewed online. Stay updated with the PTE latest updates 2025.
Know more about PTE:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the pattern of PTE exam 2025?
The PTE exam is a computer-based test. The PTE test pattern is divided into 3 parts. Part 1 is speaking and writing. This is the lengthiest part with 54 to 67 minutes of duration. While the reading part is up to 30 minutes and the listening part is of 30 to 43 minutes. The overall test consists of 20 different question types. The PTE test asses the English proficiency in real-life scenarios.
2. What are the new changes in the PTE exam 2025 pattern?
The new changes in the PTE test pattern 2025 is that the exam duration and the number of questions are shortened. The break time is removed. The overall test layout and presentation have been improved to make it visually clear. All the remaining like the PTE scoring scale and test format are the same as the previous one.
3. What is the PTE syllabus?
The PTE syllabus consists of questions related to real-life academic and general scenarios. The test syllabus consists of parts that measure the skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, etc. There are a total of 20 different question types like MCQs, fill-in-the-blanks, essay writing, missing words, re-ordering paragraphs, etc which successfully measure the candidate's English proficiency level.
4. Does PTE test have a negative marking?
There is no negative marking in the PTE academic exam pattern. If the answer is incorrect either partial marks or zero marks are allotted to the question. Candidates are free to guess the answer and there is no negative marking in the test.
5. What is the reading pattern of PTE exam 2025?
The Reading component of the PTE Academic exam assesses comprehension abilities using a variety of assignments. Candidates are presented with tasks such as multiple-choice questions, which require them to pick one or more answers. They also re-order jumbled paragraphs into comprehensible sections and fill in blanks with relevant words using a dropdown menu, typing, or dragging and dropping. Furthermore, candidates summarise written materials in a single sentence and choose missing words to complete sentences.
6. What is the PTE passing score?
The PTE exam does not have a fixed passing score. Instead, it has a band scoring system that ranges from 10 to 90. Universities set their own minimum PTE scores for admission and other purposes. Here's an overview of what various PTE ratings often represent.
- 50-63: While this range covers the fundamental standards for certain schools, it may not be sufficient for competitive colleges or higher education courses.
- 65-75: This score range is regarded as good and is commonly required by universities and institutes for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions.
- 79-90: This scoring range is regarded as exceptional and indicates a high level of English proficiency, which may allow entrance to prestigious colleges and highly competitive programmes.
7. Is PTE easier than IELTS?
PTE offers a computer-based test, whereas IELTS is a paper-based test. The test duration of PTE exam is shorter than that of IELTS. Both IELTS and PTE focus on the English language speaking, writing and reading skills of an individual. Neither of the test is easier except their test pattern and mode of examination.
8. What are the changes in PTE 2025?
The PTE Academic test underwent some changes in 2024. The total PTE exam duration has been reduced to 2 hours and 15 minutes. The PTE exam 2025 evaluates questions across the Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing sections to assess the English language proficiency of students.
9. What is the format of the PTE exam 2025?
The PTE exam in 2025 is a computer-based test, divided into three sections: speaking and writing (54-67 minutes), reading (29-30 minutes), and listening (30-43 minutes). There are around 20 different question types that measure an individual's English competence through these categories. Compared with prior years, PTE new update 2025 is that the exam duration has been reduced, with fewer questions and no breaks in between.
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Questions related to PTE Academic
Have a question related to PTE Academic ?
Hello,
Here are the links where you can access PTE Vocabulary list with meaning for 2025 :-
1. PTE Vocabulary list with meaning
2. PTE academic collocation list 2025
Hope it helps !
Prachi Kumari 17 February,2025
The ease of the IELTS versus the PTE can vary depending on your strengths and preferences. IELTS tends to focus more on British English and has a variety of question types that might be familiar if you are accustomed to traditional exams. PTE, on the other hand, is computer-based and features a more integrated approach to language skills, which some find more straightforward. For tailored guidance, especially if you're considering studying abroad, Invicta Career Consultancy can offer valuable insights and support in choosing the test that aligns best with your goals and strengths. Additionally, consider researching other well-reviewed consultancy firms to find the one that best suits your specific needs and preferences.
Amrita Koner 19 July,2024
For students aiming to study in public universities, English language proficiency exams like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and TOEIC are often required because they are specifically designed to assess English skills in an academic context, which is crucial for success in such institutions. DELF, which tests French language proficiency, may not be sufficient for English-speaking universities. For personalized guidance on which exams are necessary and how to prepare, Invicta Career Consultancy can provide valuable support and tailored advice, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.
Amrita Koner 27 July,2024
With a PTE score of 55 and a writing score of 47, you might face some challenges in meeting the language requirements for a student visa in Finland. It's essential to check the specific visa requirements for the institution and program you're applying to, as they can vary. For personalized guidance and to explore potential solutions, including improving your language scores or finding alternative pathways, consider consulting with Invicta Career Consultancy. They can offer tailored advice to help you navigate the visa process effectively, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.
Amrita Koner 27 July,2024
With an overall PTE score of 50 and a 57% in your 12th grade, you may be eligible to apply for certain programs in Australia, although specific requirements can vary by institution and course. It's important to verify the exact admission criteria of the universities or colleges you are interested in. For detailed advice and assistance in choosing the right program and ensuring your application meets all requirements, consider reaching out to Invicta Career Consultancy. They can provide personalized support to enhance your application and guide you through the process, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.
Amrita Koner 27 July,2024
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