What is PTE?
PTE (Pearson Test of English) is one of the several English Proficiency tests that those planning to move abroad have to take to prove their ability to communicate in English.
PTE is a computer-based test that assesses Communicative Skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing) and Enabling Skills (Grammar, Oral Fluency, Pronunciation, Spelling, Vocabulary and Written Discourse) to provide an accurate assessment of the test taker’s level of proficiency in English. The candidate is evaluated separately on each of these parameters (4 + 6), on a scale of 10 – 90. The results are made available after about 5 business days from test date.
Why Do People Take the PTE (Academic)?
The PTE Academic Practice test is for anyone who aspires to move to countries, such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the UK and the USA.
PTE (Academic) is a valid language proficiency test in different countries for different reasons. The following table provides the purposes for which it is valid in various countries:
The test Structure:
What is the Format of PTE (Academic)?
The test is divided into three modules:
- Speaking and Writing (77 - 93 minutes)
- Reading (32 – 41 minutes)
- Listening (45 – 57 minutes)
How is the PTE (Academic) Scored?
The candidate gets an overall score as well as separate score for each of the Communicative and Enabling Skills. The score for each parameter is then scaled to a range of 10 to 90.
Two Types of Scoring in PTE:
Corresponding to the two types of question items in PTE, there are two types of scores:
- Correct/ Incorrect Items (Full credit or zero credit)
These items are evaluated on the basis of correctness alone.
- Partial Credit Items (Correct/ Partially Correct/ Incorrect)
These items are evaluated on the basis of following:
- Correctness
- Formal aspects (for example, word limit)
- Quality of response (assessment of enabling skills)
Is PTE Necessary?
No, there many other alternative tests, such as TOEFL or IELTS that may serve the purpose. Your reason to go overseas may or may not necessarily demand such a test. Specifically talking about study abroad aspirants, many universities overseas don't ask for English language proficiency test scores, although there may be certain other conditions that the candidate would be expected to meet. In all, PTE is not the only English language test that can help in achieving your goals; however, the relative convenience that it offers in terms of delivery of results and sitting, makes it very popular among students and professionals.