The PTE Exam Format: Mastering It for Better Preparation

Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a globally recognised computer-based exam that evaluates your proficiency in English. Preparing well in advance is a step not to be missed if you aim to study or work abroad. The process can seem daunting, especially with the applications, tests, and finding the proper guidance. However, at Elite Expertise, we offer PTE classes and make this easier.

Let us understand a few points.

The first step is demonstrating English proficiency, a critical part of this process.

There are different types of PTE tests:

• PTE Academic: For global university and college applications, visa applications to Australia and New Zealand, and professional registration.

• PTE Core: A general English test, recognized by the Canadian government for immigration and citizenship applications.

• UK visa tests: English tests for visa applications, which include PTE Home tests (to join family, and settle in the UK) and PTE Academic UKVI (for study or work visa).

While Elite Expertise focuses on helping international pharmacists pass licensing exams like the KAPS exam and OPRA exam, we also recognize the importance of standardized tests such as the PTE exam.

We focus on the PTE Academic exam, which is accepted for work and study in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Singapore, Ireland, the Netherlands, the US, and Germany.

This blog will provide a detailed and extensive structure of the PTE test, its duration, sections, question types, scoring system, and validity.

Also Read: How to Become a Pharmacist in Australia from India (2025) – Step-by-Step Guide

What is the PTE Test Format?

The PTE Test Format is a computer-based test that assesses a candidate's communication skills in an academic environment. It covers accents and academic language and evaluates four core skills: speaking, writing, reading, and listening.

You will need to interact with the system using a microphone for the speaking tasks and a keyboard for writing. So, practice interacting and writing digitally regularly. The test uses artificial intelligence to score responses, ensuring fairness and accuracy.

The PTE test is recognised by many universities worldwide. It is mainly popular in the UK, Australia, the US, and Canada. The New Zealand and Australian governments also now accept it for visa purposes.

What Is the PTE Test Duration?

The test lasts for 2 hours and includes real-world scenarios for assessment, conducted in a single session without any breaks between sections, though there are scheduled pauses. Here, time management becomes crucial, so proceed with every section mindfully. Also, know how long each section lasts to avoid confusion and disruption on exam day.

• Speaking lasts for about 54-67 minutes.

• Reading lasts for 30 minutes.

• Listening lasts around 45 minutes.

Note: Keep in mind that this is a broad estimation, and the accuracy and timely completion of this exam will depend on you.

Proper PTE exam preparation includes practicing under timed conditions to improve both speed and accuracy.

The PTE Sections

As mentioned above, the PTE test format covers four areas: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Let’s look at them in detail.

1. Speaking and Writing

These two components are assessed together in one section, lasting about an hour. You'll be tested on your ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.

Key tasks include:

• Personal introduction

• Reading aloud

• Repeating sentences

• Describing images

• Retelling lectures

• Answering short questions

• Summarizing written text

• Essay writing

A strong performance here requires clarity, fluency, and coherence.

2. Reading

This section evaluates your comprehension and analytical skills. You’ll encounter various question types such as:

• Multiple-choice questions (single and multiple answers)

• Reordering paragraphs

• Fill in the blanks (Read a passage with missing words, choose the correct option from the list)

• Fill-in-the-blanks (Read a passage with missing words, drag and drop the correct word)

You must read carefully and manage time efficiently. A PTE English test prep course can help you develop strategies to tackle complex texts and improve reading speed.

3. Listening

In this final section, you’ll listen to audio or video clips evaluating your spoken English understanding. Listen to the audio and respond accordingly. This task is divided into eight segments. These tasks include:

• Summarize Spoken Text

• Multiple Choice – Choose Single and Multiple Answers

• Fill in the Blanks

• Highlight Correct Summary

• Select the Missing Word

• Highlight Incorrect Words

• Write from Dictation

This section requires good listening skills, note-taking abilities, and attention to detail. Many learners benefit from enrolling in the best PTE coaching or an online PTE course for guided practice.

What are the Types of Questions in the PTE Exam?

Each section serves a different purpose in testing your English proficiency.

Part 1: Speaking and Writing

Read Aloud

A text is provided to read, rehearse, and record the answers. You can only record yourself once for all speaking tasks, so do it carefully.

Repeat Sentence

Listen to a sentence and repeat it exactly. You hear the sentence only once.

Describe Image

Look at an image given to you for 25 seconds, then describe it in 40 seconds. Focuses on speaking skills.

Re-tell Lecture

Listen to a lecture for 90 seconds, take 10 seconds to prepare, and summarize it in 40 seconds. This lecture appears 1-2 times and tests listening and speaking.

Answer Short Question

After listening to a question, answer it with one or a few words. May include an image.

Summarize Written Text

Read a passage and write a one-sentence summary within 75 words. Covers reading and writing.

Essay Writing

Write a 200–300-word essay based on a prompt in 20 minutes. Focuses on writing.

Part 2: Reading

Fill in the Blanks

You will be given a text with several words missing. Choose the correct words from the options to complete a text.

Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers

You will need to select all the correct answers after reading a passage.

Re-order Paragraphs

Arrange jumbled paragraphs into a logical order. The text will contain approximately 150 words.

Fill in the Blanks

Drag and drop words to fill gaps in a text.

Multiple Choice, Single Answer

Choose the correct answer from multiple options after reading a passage.

Part 3: Listening

Summarize Spoken Text

Listen to a lecture or an interview and write a 50–70-word summary.

Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers

Listen to a recording and select all correct responses from the options given.

Fill in the Blanks

Listen to the prompt provided and select the correct responses

Highlight Correct Summary

You will listen to an audio and choose the best summary that fits it.

Multiple Choice, Single Answer

Listen to a short audio and choose the missing words in the audio. Write that into the text.

Select the Missing Word

Identify the missing word(s) in the audio clip. Fill them correctly by selecting the correct option.

Highlight Incorrect Words

This part will contain a text, and you will listen to the text being read aloud. Find incorrect words by comparing written text with a spoken version.

Write from Dictation

Listen to a sentence and type it exactly as heard.

PTE Scoring System

The PTE scoring system uses a scale from 10 to 90, with scores calculated based on performance across all sections. Each skill—speaking, writing, reading, and listening—is evaluated individually, and the overall score reflects your cumulative performance.

Here’s a breakdown of what different score ranges mean:

To achieve a high score, it's important to understand the PTE test format and the scoring expectations for each task.

PTE Score Validity

Your PTE examination results remain valid for two years from the test day. They are accessible through email and PTE accounts within five business days of the examination.

The score validity spans two years, which allows you to use your results for educational enrollment, visa processing, and employment opportunities.

It is important to note that preparations should start well in advance because Australian programs maintain intense competition.

Another advantage of the PTE test is that the results are typically declared within 2 business days and a maximum of 5 days in some instances. You can do PTE test bookings 24 hours in advance.

Using the Global Scale of English, scores range from 10 to 90, and each university will set its minimum acceptance score.

You can take a PTE course online. Let's look at how to choose the best PTE coaching in Sydney.

Also Read: Achieve High Scores in PTE with Expert Training from Elite Expertise

Choosing the Right PTE Training

Several PTE training centres exist in the market, and choosing the right one may seem tricky. However, check for these points if you are looking for the right PTE preparation course.

• Realistic and comprehensive practice tests

• Personalised training sessions

• Detailed feedback

• Expert instructors

• Flexible schedules

If you're considering the PTE exam fee in Australia, keep in mind that fees may vary depending on the location and mode of registration. Always check the official PTE website or consult a trusted PTE coaching provider for updated information on PTE exam fee structures.

Why Elite Expertise?

While Elite Expertise is known for its excellence in pharmacy license preparation exams, experts who are licensed pharmacists in Australia provide structured support.

• A 1.5-month course designed to help you excel in the exam.

• Unlimited sectional mock tests with 2 months' access

• Complete practice mock tests

• Personalized one-to-one training

• interactive sessions for the PTE test format to build confidence

Visit Elite Expertise to explore our course and see how expert-led instruction helps your PTE exam preparation journey.

Also Read: English Language Proficiency Tests for Australia After the OPRA Exam

Conclusion

PTE Test Format is the first step to your dream becoming a reality. With knowledge and guidance, you can succeed in this exam smoothly.

Irrespective of whether you attend a PTE preparation course, or sign up for a PTE course online for regular practice and professional guidance.

At Elite Expertise, we provide personalised support and mentorship to help you in your journey, not only in the PTE exam but also in your academic and career endeavors.

Remember, believe, and make the most of available resources and training. Your journey to English proficiency starts with knowing the PTE Test Format and clearing it confidently.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This blog provides general information about the PTE exam and reflects our views. Exam formats, policies, and requirements may change over time, so we strongly recommend verifying details with official sources such as Pearson PTE and relevant immigration authorities. We are not responsible for any decisions made based on this content.

About the Author

Radhika

Content Writer | Elite Expertise

Radhika loves all things content! With a Master's in English Literature and over 4 years of experience in digital strategies. She specializes in creating engaging content across diverse industries - including healthcare, technology, and e-commerce - always writing content that connects to its readers.

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