PTE Academic assesses speaking, writing, reading and listening in a single sitting of about two hours at a test centre, or through the online version where accepted. Many tasks are integrated, so one answer can count towards two skills.
Scoring is automated, which is why results usually arrive within about two days. Scores run from 10 to 90. Pearson also offers PTE Academic UKVI for UK visa purposes and PTE Core for some Canadian immigration uses.
PTE Academic is widely accepted by universities in Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Ireland, and by a growing number in Canada and the US. Moksh does not run PTE; we guide your preparation, and you book directly with Pearson.
Test format
- 1
Speaking and writing · About 54–67 minutes
Personal introduction (unscored), read aloud, repeat sentence, describe image, retell lecture, answer short question, summarise written text and an essay, with some newer integrated tasks.
- 2
Reading · About 29–30 minutes
Reading and writing fill in the blanks, multiple choice, reorder paragraphs and reading fill in the blanks.
- 3
Listening · About 30–43 minutes
Summarise spoken text, multiple choice, fill in the blanks, highlight correct summary, select missing word, highlight incorrect words and write from dictation.
Scoring
You get an overall score and a score for each skill on a scale of 10 to 90. Many universities ask for 58–65 overall for undergraduate study and 58–70 for postgraduate study, often with a per-skill minimum.
Fee, results and validity
- Fee in India: About ₹18,900 including GST for PTE Academic, PTE Academic UKVI or PTE Core (revised in March 2026) (indicative, check the official site)
- Results: Usually within 48 hours; occasionally up to five days
- Score validity: Scores are shown for two years from the test date; institutions decide how recent a score they accept
- Run by: Pearson
Where it is accepted
- Australian universities and the Department of Home Affairs for all visa types
- New Zealand universities and Immigration New Zealand
- UK universities, and PTE Academic UKVI for visa routes that need a Secure English Language Test
- Irish universities
- Many Canadian colleges and universities
- A large number of US universities
Preparation tips from our counsellors
- Learn how each task is scored: fluency and pronunciation matter as much as content in speaking tasks
- Speak at a steady, natural pace without long pauses; the software penalises hesitation more than accent
- Practise with a headset and microphone so the testing setup feels familiar
- Write from dictation and repeat sentence carry heavy weight, so drill them daily
- Keep essays within the word limit and cover every part of the prompt
- Use the official Pearson scored practice tests to check your level before booking
- Manage time in reading carefully; there is no separate clock per question
Frequently asked questions
Is PTE easier than IELTS?
Neither is easier across the board. PTE suits students who are comfortable with computers and speaking into a microphone; IELTS suits those who prefer a live examiner. Take a practice test in each and compare.
Can I use PTE for a UK student visa?
Most UK universities accept PTE Academic for degree-level study. If your route needs a Secure English Language Test, you must take PTE Academic UKVI instead.
Is PTE accepted for Canadian study permits?
Many Canadian institutions accept PTE Academic for admission. Canadian study permits are based on your admission, so the institution's requirement is what matters. PTE Core is a separate test used for some immigration programmes.
How soon can I retake PTE?
You can book another test as soon as you receive your result, subject to seat availability.
Does Moksh sell PTE vouchers or run the test?
No. Moksh has no link with Pearson and does not sell test bookings. We offer preparation guidance only.