PTE Academic: A Detailed Overview & Preparation Tips

The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) is a computer-based English language proficiency test for students and professionals seeking admission to universities or immigration to English-speaking countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand. It assesses speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills through AI-based scoring.

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Test Format Overview

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours
• Mode: Completely computer-based
• Scoring: 10–90 points (automated AI-based scoring)
• Sections:
  1. Speaking & Writing (54–67 minutes)
  2. Reading (29–30 minutes)
  3. Listening (30–43 minutes)

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1. Speaking & Writing Section

Duration: 54–67 minutes

This section assesses fluency, pronunciation, grammar, and written communication.

Task Types & Description

1. Personal Introduction(Not Scored)
   • Candidate records a short introduction about themselves (for institutions to review).
2. Read Aloud
   • Read a text aloud after 30–40 seconds of preparation.
   • Tip: Focus on pronunciation, stress, and rhythm.
3. Repeat Sentence
   • Listen to a sentence and repeat it exactly.
   • Tip: Try to remember the sentence structure instead of individual words.
4. Describe Image
   • Describe a chart, graph, map, or picture in 40 seconds.
   • Tip: Use structured responses like “The image represents…”
5. Re-tell Lecture
   • Listen to a lecture (60–90 seconds), take notes, and summarize it in 40 seconds.
   • Tip: Write down key points and connect them logically.
6. Answer Short Question
   • Respond to a general knowledge or vocabulary-based question in 1–2 words.
   • Tip: Speak clearly and confidently.
7. Summarize Written Text
   • Read a passage (300 words) and summarize it in one sentence (5–75 words).
   • Tip: Use linking words like “because,” “therefore,” “as a result.”
8. Write Essay
   • Write a 200–300 word argumentative or opinion-based essay in 20 minutes.
   • Tip: Follow a structure (Introduction, Body, Conclusion) and use examples.

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2. Reading Section

Duration: 29–30 minutes

This section tests comprehension and analytical skills using academic texts.

Task Types & Description

1. Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks
   • Drag and drop words into blank spaces based on context.
   • Tip: Focus on grammar and collocations (words that go together).
2. Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
   • Choose more than one correct answer based on the passage.
   • Tip: Avoid over-selecting answers—look for clear evidence.
3. Reorder Paragraphs
   • Arrange jumbled sentences into a logically structured paragraph.
   • Tip: Find the main idea first and build connections.
4. Fill in the Blanks
   • Select the correct word from a dropdown list for missing words in a passage.
   • Tip: Look for grammatical clues in the sentence.
5. Multiple Choice, Single Answer
   • Choose one correct answer from multiple options based on the passage.
   • Tip: Read all options carefully before choosing.

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3. Listening Section

Duration: 30–43 minutes

This section assesses listening comprehension using audio and video clips.

Task Types & Description

1. Summarize Spoken Text
   • Listen to a 60–90 second audio clip and write a summary in 50–70 words.
   • Tip: Note keywords and main ideas while listening.
2. Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
   • Choose all correct answers based on an audio recording.
   • Tip: Don’t select answers that are partially correct.
3. Fill in the Blanks
   • Listen to a transcript with missing words and fill in the blanks.
   • Tip: Pay attention to word endings and pronunciation.
4. Highlight Correct Summary
   • Select the best summary of an audio recording.
   • Tip: Focus on the main idea rather than details.
5. Multiple Choice, Single Answer
   • Choose one correct answer based on an audio clip.
   • Tip: Identify synonyms or paraphrased ideas in the options.
6. Select Missing Word
   • Identify the missing word at the end of an audio recording.
   • Tip: Listen for context and tone of the sentence.
7. Highlight Incorrect Words
   • Identify incorrect words in an audio transcript.
   • Tip: Focus on words that sound similar but change the meaning.
8. Write from Dictation
   • Listen to a sentence and type it exactly as heard.
   • Tip: Type while listening and check spelling carefully.

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PTE Academic Scoring

• Scoring Range: 10–90 points
• Automated AI-based Scoring
• Graded on:
  • Content
  • Oral fluency
  • Pronunciation
  • Grammar
  • Vocabulary
  • Spelling

Score Comparison with IELTS & TOEFL

PTE Score	IELTS Equivalent	TOEFL Equivalent
86–90	9.0	118–120
79–85	8.0	110–117
65–78	7.0	94–109
50–64	6.0	60–93
36–49	5.0	35–59

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How LinguaLab Helps You Achieve Your Desired Score

At LinguaLab, we provide expert guidance and personalized strategies to help you excel in PTE Academic. Our services include:

✅ One-on-One Coaching – Customized feedback and personal attention.
✅ AI-Based Practice Tests – Simulate real test conditions.
✅ Proven Strategies – Special techniques for time management and high-scoring responses.
✅ Grammar & Vocabulary Enhancement – Improve accuracy and fluency.
✅ Mock Tests with Analysis – Identify weak areas and improve your overall band score.
✅ Flexible Online & Offline Classes – Study at your own convenience.

🚀 Start your PTE preparation with Lingua Lab and get the scores you need for study or migration!