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PTE Exam Pattern 2024: Format, Structure, Sections, Marking Scheme
Edited By Piyush Kohli | Updated on Oct 14, 2024 02:47 PM IST | #PTE Academic
PTE exam pattern 2024 includes 20 questions based on different sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This PTE test pattern for academics evaluates the student's skills in these 4 sections and overall English language command. The overall PTE test time is 2 hours and 15 minutes and is divided into Reading (29-30 minutes), Listening (30-43 minutes), and Speaking and writing (54-67 minutes) ideally.
PTE Academic: Complete Guide | Preparation Tips
This Story also Contains
- PTE Exam Pattern Highlights
- What are the changes in PTE exam?
- PTE Academic Exam Pattern 2024
- PTE 2024 Exam Pattern: Section Wise
- PTE 2024 Exam Pattern: Reading
- PTE Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Listening
- PTE Question Pattern 2024
- PTE Scoring Pattern 2024
- PTE Score Validity
- PTE Practice Tests 2024
- PTE Exam Preparation
Students must be familiar with the PTE exam pattern and marks to prepare for it accordingly. Hence, this article got them covered! Also, Pearson notified about the PTE exam pattern change in 2024 where the test duration has been reduced, fewer questions are asked, breaks are cancelled, and many more. Hence, students can also understand by visiting different model PTE exam pattern pdf available online for practice.
PTE exam pattern 2024 has been formatted as the Speaking & Writing section consists of 7 different question types for 54–67 minutes. The Reading section of the PTE exam pattern is 29–30 minutes and has 5 different question types. The Listening section lasts around 30–43 minutes which consists of 8 different question types based on video and audio clips.
Is there any negative marking in PTE 2024? No, there is no negative marking in the PTE exam in 2024. The PTE exam score is based on the number of correct answers provided by the candidate, without any deduction for incorrect answers. Read the complete article to learn about PTE exam pattern 2024, testing modes, question formats, duration, and scoring of each section in detail. Students will also understand PTE new pattern mock test and where to get them.
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 Exam Pattern Highlights
PTE format | Details |
PTE exam type | PTE Academic Exam |
Duration of PTE Exam | 2 hours 15 minutes |
Exam mode | Home / Test Centre |
Medium | Computer-based test |
Assessment | Real-life English |
Test layout | 20 questions |
What are the changes in PTE exam?
As per the PTE changes 2024, the exam pattern and syllabus have been revised and have undergone some modifications and changes. Some of the latest changes in the PTE new format 2024.
Key Changes in PTE Exam
- PTE Academic got shorter: The total PTE exam duration has been reduced to 2 hours and 15 minutes.
- Fewer Questions: The exam 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.While, the "Describe Image" task has been removed from the Speaking and Writing section.
- No Breaks: 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.
PTE Academic Exam Pattern 2024
The PTE Academic is a computer-based English test attempted at home and PTE test centres. There is no difference in the PTE test format 2024 for the home-based and test centre exam. Similarly, there is no change in the PTE exam pattern and syllabus for PTE Academic and PTE UKVI Academic.
PTE Academic Exam Pattern Outline
| Parts | Question types | 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 |
Note: The PTE UKVI test pattern is the same as before.
PTE 2024 Exam Pattern: Section Wise
The new PTE format 2024 consists of three parts. All 3 parts can be taken in one single take. The details of each part are mentioned below.
PTE Exam Pattern: Speaking and Writing Section
This speaking and writing part of the PTE exam pattern evaluates both the writing and speaking skills of the aspirant. The questions in this section are either displayed on the screen or listened to through video or audio clips. Each question has to be answered in a defined timeline and its details are mentioned below.
PTE Test Pattern for Speaking & Writing
Item | Task | Answering time |
Personal Introduction | Read the prompt and prepare a response. Only this question in this section is unscored. | 30 seconds to record |
Read Aloud | Read out the given text which is 60 words. | Varies |
Repeat sentence | Listen to a sentence recording and repeat | 15 seconds |
Describe Image | Describe the displayed image in detail. | 40 seconds |
Re-tell Lecture | Listen/watch a lecture and describe it own words | 40 seconds |
Answer short question | Listen to the question and answer it in a single or few words | 10 seconds |
Summarise written text | Read the text of up to 300 words and write the summary in one sentence. | 10 minutes |
Write essay | Write an essay of 200 to 300 words on a given topic | 20 minutes |
In the PTE exam pattern and syllabus of the speaking and writing section, the skills measured for each question type are as follows.
Personal Introduction: Speaking
Read Aloud: Reading and Speaking
Repeat sentence: Listening and Speaking
Describe Image: Speaking
Re-tell Lecture: Listening and Speaking
Answer short questions: Listening and Speaking
Summarize written text: Reading and Writing
Write essay: Writing
This speaking section of the PTE exam pattern is considered very challenging. As in the PTE test format 2024 speaking, a computer record is used where errors cannot be fixed. Anxiousness and nervousness may affect the final result as the scoring is done by machine which is not the case with IELTS speaking where a human listener is present.
Hence, understanding the PTE exam pattern and time and using the correct device type for speaking is a must for students to take this test.
PTE 2024 Exam Pattern: Reading
The reading skills of the candidate are assessed in the PTE exam pattern 2024 of reading section. Only one type of fill-in-the-blank question assesses the candidate's reading and writing skills while the rest measure only reading skills. Observe the following PTE exam format for the reading section to get a better idea.
PTE Format for the Reading Section
Item | Task | Prompt length |
Multiple-Choice, Choose Single Answer | Read the text and answer the MCQs by selecting only one option. | 300 words |
Multiple-Choice, Choose Multiple Answers | Read the text and answer the MCQs by selecting more than one option. | 300 words |
Re-order Paragraphs | Arrange the text boxes in random order to the correct order. | 150 words |
Fill in the blanks | 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 |
Reading and Writing-Fill in the blanks | 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 |
PTE Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Listening
The listening section in the PTE exam pattern 2024 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 PTE exam pattern and syllabus occupies a variable time. Whereas a time limit is not applicable for the answering. PTE exam pattern and time for this section is 30-43 minutes.
PTE Exam Format for Listening Section
Item | Task | Prompt length |
Summarize spoken text | Listen to the recording and write a summary of 50-70 words. | 60-90 seconds |
Multiple choice, choose multiple answers | Listening to the recording. Then answer the MCQs by selecting more than one response | 40-90 seconds |
Fill in the blanks | 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 | 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 | Listening to the recording. Then answer the MCQs by selecting only one response. | 30-90 seconds |
Select missing word | Listening to a recording. Select the missing word that completes the recording from the given list of options | 20-70 seconds |
Highlight incorrect words | 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 | Listen to a recording of a sentence and then type it. | 3-5 seconds |
In the PTE test format 2024 and syllabus of the listening section, the following skills are assessed for the given question type.
Summarise spoken text: Listening and Writing
Multiple Choice, choose multiple answers: Listening
Fill in the blanks: Listening and Writing
Highlight correct summary: Listening
Multiple Choice, choose a single answer: Listening
Select missing word: Listening
Highlight incorrect words: Listening and Reading
Write from dictation: Listening and Writing
Candidates are advised to read the instructions and then proceed to begin the new section or the question in the PTE academic exam pattern 2024. In the writing tasks, the candidate must make sure that the answer maintains the given word limit.
PTE Question Pattern 2024
Here is a detailed breakdown of the question pattern for PTE exam for each section:
PTE Speaking & Writing Section
Duration: 54-67 minutes
Question Types:
- Personal Introduction
- Read Aloud
- Repeat Sentence
- Describe Image
- Retell Lecture
- Answer Short Questions
- Summarize Written Text
- Essay
PTE Reading Section
Duration: 29-30 minutes
Question Types:
- Fill in the Blanks
- Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer
- Re-order Paragraphs
- Fill in the Blanks
- Multiple Choice, Single Answer
PTE Listening Section
Duration: 30-43 minutes
Question Types:
- Summarize Spoken Text
- Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
- Fill in the Blanks
- Highlight Correct Summary
- Multiple Choice, Single Answer
- Select Missing Word
- Highlight Incorrect Words
- Write From Dictation
PTE Scoring Pattern 2024
The PTE test scoring is done by machine. The total PTE score chart marks 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.
The tasks in the PTE test are scored in two ways.
Correct or incorrect
Partial credit
Few tasks are scored based on correct or incorrect, while many tasks 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. Here, the partial credit is measured based on the correctness, formal aspects like word limit, and quality aspects like fluency, pronunciation, etc.
PTE Score Validity
PTE exam 2024 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 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 to top-tier universities abroad, aiming for a score between 65 and 75 or higher is recommended. 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.
PTE Practice Tests 2024
Candidates can get familiar with the PTE exam pattern by working on the PTE practice tests. The PTE test online provides the correct exam environment to the candidate where they can practise time management for the original test day. This will also help them understand how to tackle the PTE format and score high in each section individually.
PTE Exam Preparation
To improve English language proficiency, it is necessary to take a systematic approach when preparing for the PTE exam syllabus. Here are some guidelines for effective preparation:
Familiarise yourself with the PTE 2024 format, including the types of tasks included in each section and the time allocated to each task.
Set aside consistent time to practice each section of the exam. Students can study materials like practice examinations, sample questions, and online materials to improve their knowledge and skills.
Candidates can improve their English language skills by focusing on vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and comprehension.
They are recommended to take part in activities such as reading English texts, listening to podcasts or audiobooks, and interacting with English speakers.
Take mock tests regularly to become familiar with the exam environment and to 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.
Use authorised PTE preparation resources including practice exams, study guides, and internet resources to supplement your preparation.
Students must begin their preparations early in advance to have enough time for practice and improvement.
By following these guidelines and adding a structured study plan to their preparation, aspirants can improve their chances of clearing the PTE Academic exam.
Know more about PTE:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the pattern of the PTE exam?
The PTE exam is a computer-based test. The test 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 test pattern?
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 academic 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.
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Questions related to PTE Academic
Have a question related to PTE Academic ?
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
Since you've completed your MSc in IT in 2023 and scored 57 on the PTE, the next step for studying in Canada involves selecting a suitable program and university. Research Canadian institutions offering advanced IT or related programs that accept your PTE score. Additionally, ensure your PTE score meets the minimum requirements for your chosen program. You will need to prepare and submit your application along with necessary documents such as transcripts, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. After receiving an acceptance letter, you can apply for a study permit (student visa) through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Ensure your application is complete and accurate to avoid delays. For personalized and expert guidance throughout this process, consider consulting Invicta Career Consultancy, which can provide tailored advice and support for your study abroad plans, 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.
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