PTE Exam Pattern 2025:
A Detailed Guide
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a comprehensive English language proficiency exam that assesses non-native speakers’ abilities in speaking, writing, reading, and listening. Academic institutions and government bodies worldwide widely accept the test. A thorough understanding of the PTE exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. This guide provides an in-depth look at the PTE exam pattern for 2025, including the structure and types of questions in each section. MSM Unify offers resources and support to help you excel in the PTE and achieve your study abroad aspirations.
The PTE exam consists of three main sections: speaking & writing, reading, and listening. Each section evaluates different language skills and includes various question types. The test is computer-based, and responses are scored using AI technology to ensure accuracy and fairness.
The PTE test format is structured into three sections, each designed to assess different language skills. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each section:
This section assesses your ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written English. It includes various question types that test your fluency, pronunciation, and writing skills.
Question type | Description | Time allocation |
Personal introduction | Introduce yourself (not scored but shared with institutions) | 25 seconds for prompt, 30 seconds to speak |
Read aloud | Read a short passage aloud | 30-40 seconds per prompt |
Repeat sentence | Repeat a sentence you hear | 15 seconds per sentence |
Describe image | Describe an image shown on the screen | 25 seconds to prepare, 40 seconds to speak |
Re-tell lecture | Summarize a lecture in your own words | 40 seconds |
Answer short questions | Answer a simple question in a few words | 20 seconds |
Summarize written text | Summarize a given text in one sentence | 10 minutes per text |
Essay | Write an essay on a given topic | 20 minutes |
The reading section evaluates your comprehension of written English through various text types and question formats.
Question type | Description | Time allocation |
Reading & writing: fill in the blanks | Fill in the missing words in a text | varies |
Multiple-choice, multiple answers | Choose multiple correct answers | varies |
Re-order paragraphs | Reorder sentences to form a logical paragraph | varies |
Reading: fill in the blanks | Fill in the blanks in a short text | varies |
Multiple-choice, single answer | Choose the best answer based on the text | varies |
This section assesses your ability to understand spoken English through various audio clips. It includes a variety of question types that test your listening comprehension and attention to detail.
Question type | Description | Time allocation |
Summarize spoken text | Write a summary of the audio clip | 10 minutes per clip |
Multiple-choice, multiple answers | Choose multiple correct answers from the audio | 40-90 seconds |
Fill in the blanks | Complete the transcript by filling in missing words | 30-60 seconds |
Highlight correct summary | Select the summary that best matches the audio | 30-90 seconds |
Multiple-choice, single answer | Choose one correct answer based on the audio | 30-60 seconds |
Select missing word | Choose the missing word in an audio clip | 20-70 seconds |
Highlight incorrect words | Identify incorrect words in the transcript | 15-50 seconds |
Write from dictation | Write down the sentence spoken in the audio clip | 3-5 seconds per sentence |
Preparing effectively for each section of the PTE exam requires focused practice and familiarity with the question types.
The PTE exam uses an automated scoring system based on AI technology. This ensures that scoring is consistent, unbiased, and objective. Each section is scored individually, and the overall score is a combination of these scores. Scores range from 10 to 90, with each section contributing to the final score.
MSM Unify offers various resources and expert guidance to help you prepare for the PTE exam. Our resources include:
The PTE exam is a crucial step for anyone looking to pursue academic or professional opportunities in English-speaking countries. Understanding the exam pattern and preparing effectively is key to achieving a high score. MSM Unify has been instrumental in helping over 1,86,000 students achieve their study-abroad dreams.
With access to over 50,000 programs across 1,500+ campuses in 21 destinations, MSM Unify offers unparalleled support throughout your PTE preparation and study abroad journey. Our consultants provide personalized guidance in selecting the best study destinations and programs, ensuring that your PTE scores align with your academic and career aspirations.
PTE all pages...
Share your details & our experts will call to discuss your goals
MSM Unify can help you achieve your desired scores through access to preparation resources, mock tests, and expert guidance.
So, connect with these experts to embark on your comprehensive test preparation journey soon!
MSM Unify can help you achieve your desired scores through access to preparation resources, mock tests, and expert guidance.
So, connect with these experts to embark on your comprehensive test preparation journey soon!
FAQs
The PTE exam lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, covering Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening sections.
The PTE exam is scored on a scale of 10-90, with each section contributing to the overall score. The scores are calculated using AI technology for consistent and unbiased results.
Yes, PTE Academic Online allows you to take the exam from home. Ensure you meet the technical requirements and have a stable internet connection.
You can retake the PTE exam as many times as you wish, with a minimum gap of 5 days between attempts.
PTE scores are valid for two years from the date of the exam. After that, you may need to retake the test if required by the institution or visa authorities.
PTE exams are available throughout the year at various test centers and online. You can book your preferred date based on the availability at your chosen test center. MSM Unify can assist you in selecting the right date for your PTE exam based on your study or visa application deadlines.
A valid passport is mandatory for the PTE exam. Ensure that the name on your ID matches the name used during registration to avoid any discrepancies on the test day.
Focus on all four sections—Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening. Practice with official PTE materials, take mock tests and seek guidance from MSM Unify experts to enhance your performance in weak areas.
No, the PTE is entirely computer-based. This includes both the center-based and online versions. This format ensures objective and unbiased scoring using AI technology.
MSM Unify provides access to expert guidance, practice resources, and personalized coaching to help you excel in the PTE exam. Our advisors can also assist in selecting the best study destinations and programs based on your PTE scores and career goals.
MSM Unify is a student marketplace that connects students with educational institutions and recruitment partners worldwide. We unify and allow everyone in the industry to work collaboratively to reach the world’s curious learners and provide them with a host of options when it comes to their education.
Download our App
Download our App
Copyright © 2025, MSM Unify. All rights reserved.
Google