Pearson Test of English: Here’s what students planning to study abroad should know 

When it comes to studying abroad, an English language proficiency test is one of the main documents required for university applications. Among the vast array of language tests, ranging from the IELTS to newer ones like the Duolingo English Test, there are plenty for students to choose from. One such test which has been popular among this cohort is the Pearson Test of English which is also referred to as the PTE (‘Academic’ for students). Read on to learn more about this exam. 

What is the PTE Academic? 
The Pearson PLC group, a British multinational publishing and education company, has formed a unit known as Pearson Language Tests with the aim of assessing and evaluating the usage of the English Language by non-native speakers. One of the most important tests amongst the few that the group has set up is the PTE Academic. It is primarily structured to test language proficiency for students or any non-native speaker who has plans of pursuing academics abroad. This version of the test was launched in 2009, and has also been recognised and endorsed by 6000 organisations, including the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), which is responsible for another important academic test- the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test.) It is a computer-based exam, and it predominantly puts focus on real-life, practical English that is spoken in academic surroundings.  

PTE test centres are located all over India in major cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Delhi, Bangalore, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata, etc. The total cost of this exam is INR 14,700. Candidates can register for it online on the official PTE website to book their slots for the exam. 

Now, it is also possible to take this test from the comfort of one’s home due to the ongoing pandemic situation. This means that candidates can take the test from the comfort of their own homes. The test format will remain the same as original. The online test will be proctored using advanced technology. The fees remain the same for this version. 

Structure of the PTE Academic 
The PTE Academic consists of 3 sections to test the candidate’s proficiency in all areas of the language. They are- 

Speaking and writing 
Unlike its other counterparts like the IELTS and TOEFL, the PTE Academic clubs the speaking and writing sections together. This part of the test lasts for anywhere between 77-93 minutes. It begins with the candidate giving a personal introduction about himself/ herself. The speaking section also includes, reading aloud a text that is provided, repeating certain sentences as asked, describing an image and re-telling a lecture. The written section requires the candidate to answer a question, summarise a written text (10 minutes) and to write an essay (20 minutes.) 

Reading 
The reading section of the test takes place within a minimum of 32 minutes and a maximum of 41 minutes. It provides several texts based on which it includes a fill in the blanks section, multiple choice questions and re-ordering of paragraphs. A 10-minute long break is also permitted to the candidate, although optional. 

Listening 
This section of the PTE Academic lasts for 45-57 minutes. It includes summarising a spoken text in written format, multiple choice questions, fill in the blanks, highlighting incorrect words and highlighting the correct summary. The last part of this section requires the candidate to write from dictation.