The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic is a computer-based English proficiency test accepted by thousands of universities and colleges worldwide. Scored by AI rather than human examiners, it is known for fast results and consistent scoring.
Deciding between PTE, IELTS, and TOEFL? See how the tests compare side by side: IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL: Choose the Right Test for Your Goals.
PTE Test Types — Choosing the Right One
Pearson offers several PTE tests for different purposes. Selecting the wrong test is one of the most common mistakes applicants make — always confirm which test your institution or visa application requires before booking.
PTE Academic is the standard test for students applying to universities and colleges globally. It assesses academic-level speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills and is the version accepted by most institutions for study abroad admissions.
The test takes approximately 2 hours and is divided into three parts:
- Part 1: Speaking and Writing (approximately 54–67 minutes)
- Part 2: Reading (approximately 30 minutes)
- Part 3: Listening (approximately 30 minutes)
PTE Core is a general English test recognized by the Canadian government (IRCC) for economic immigration and citizenship applications. It is typically not accepted as proof of English proficiency for academic admissions. If you are applying to a Canadian college or university, you will need PTE Academic — not PTE Core.
Pearson offers two tests specifically approved by the UK Home Office:
- PTE Academic UKVI: Identical in content and scoring to the standard PTE Academic, but includes a Unique Reference Number (URN) required for UK student visa applications.
- PTE Home (A1, A2, B1): Designed for family visas, settlement, or citizenship applications — not for academic admissions.
Note: If you are applying to study at a UK institution and also need a student visa, confirm whether your institution requires the standard PTE Academic or the PTE Academic UKVI — they are different products with different booking processes.
Find programs that accept PTE
Browse thousands of programs at top institutions worldwide and apply for free through ApplyBoard.
Scoring and Score Validity
PTE Academic is scored against the Global Scale of English (GSE) on a scale of 10 to 90. Each institution sets its own minimum score requirement — always check the specific program requirements on the Requirements tab in your ApplyBoard profile or on the institution's website before you register for the test.
General score ranges often expected by level of study:
Note: These are general ranges only — individual institutions and programs set their own requirements. Always verify the score required for your specific program before registering for the test.
PTE score reports are valid for 2 years from the date of the test. Plan your test date to ensure your scores will still be valid when your application is reviewed.
Get a Discounted PTE Voucher Through ApplyBoard
ApplyBoard offers discounted PTE vouchers to help reduce the cost of registering for your test.
Students can purchase PTE vouchers directly through ApplyBoard to save on their exam registration fee. For step-by-step instructions based on your location, read our guide: How to Purchase Test Vouchers with ApplyBoard Test Solutions.
Once purchased, you will receive a unique voucher code. Enter this code during checkout on the official Pearson PTE website to register at the discounted price.
Recruitment Partners can purchase prepaid PTE vouchers at discounted rates to distribute to their students. Log in to the ApplyBoard platform, navigate to 360 Solutions, select the Services tab, and choose Tests.
Save on your PTE registration
ApplyBoard offers discounted PTE vouchers. Log in to your dashboard or create a free account to access Test Solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — PTE Academic is accepted by thousands of institutions in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, and more. However, acceptance varies by institution and program. Always check the specific requirements for your program on the ApplyBoard platform or the institution's website before registering.
PTE Academic is designed for students applying to universities and colleges — it is the version accepted for academic admissions worldwide. PTE Core is designed for Canadian immigration (economic and citizenship applications) and is generally not accepted for academic study purposes. If you are applying to a Canadian institution, you need PTE Academic, not PTE Core.
PTE score reports are valid for two years from the date of the test. Make sure your scores will still be valid when your application is reviewed — if you are applying for a 2027 intake, confirm your test date falls within the valid window.
Your name on your PTE score report must match your passport exactly. If they differ, provide a name change affidavit or clarification document when uploading your scores to your application. This avoids processing delays. For more information, read: Name Affidavit for Study Abroad Applications.
All three are widely accepted for study abroad applications, but the right choice depends on your target institutions, personal strengths, and test availability in your country. Read our full comparison: IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL: Choose the Right Test for Your Goals.