PTE Exam Pattern & Format 2025: Sections-Wise Format, Marking Scheme
Updated on 16 May, 2025
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a computer-based English proficiency exam conducted by Pearson. It is widely accepted by universities, employers, and immigration authorities across the globe. The test assesses candidates' Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening skills using an AI-driven automated scoring system for fair and accurate evaluation.
Table of Contents
- PTE Exam Pattern & Format : Section Wise Details
- Detailed Breakdown of the PTE Exam Syllabus 2025
- PTE Exam Scoring Guidelines
- Expert's Guides for PTE Exam Preparation
- Last-Minute Tips to Ace Your PTE Exam in 2025
- Important Study Abroad Articles
- Conclusion
- Study Master Programs in USA
- Learn More about Study Abroad
Types of PTE Exam:
- PTE Academic – For students applying to international universities.
- PTE General – For assessing general English proficiency for work and communication.
- PTE Home – For visa and immigration purposes.
Key Details of the PTE Exam Pattern:
| Aspect | Details |
| PTE Exam Duration |
|
| Medium | Computer-based with a headset |
| PTE Exam Mode | Conducted at an authorized test center |
| Test Layout | Includes 20 different question types |
| PTE Test charges | INR 17000 |
| PTE Test Result & Score | Results are available within 48 hours, and sent within five business days, with scores ranging from 10 to 90 |
In this blog, we will cover the PTE Exam Pattern, including its format, section-wise structure, and scoring criteria to help you prepare effectively.
Before diving into the PTE exam syllabus and pattern, it’s essential to check the PTE eligibility requirements to ensure you meet the necessary criteria
PTE Exam Pattern & Format : Section Wise Details
A good PTE score not only boosts a candidate’s chances of securing admission to top universities but also ensures they can confidently express ideas, deliver presentations, and work in international environments. It prepares applicants to study alongside students from diverse backgrounds and engage with international faculty in a globally recognized language.
The PTE exam consists of 20 different question types, which assess candidates in three key sections:
- Speaking & Writing: 54 – 67 minutes
- Reading: 29 – 30 minutes
- Listening: 30 – 43 minutes
In this section, we will discuss the latest PTE Exam Pattern 2025, covering its format, structure, and key details for candidates planning to take the test.
PTE Exam Pattern for Speaking and Writing
The Speaking and Writing section in the PTE Exam Pattern evaluates a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in English. Below is a detailed breakdown of the number of questions and time allocation for each task.
| Task Type | Questions & Time Allocation |
| Personal Introduction | 1 question – 25 seconds to prepare, 30 seconds to record (Not scored) |
| Read Aloud | 6–7 questions – 30–40 seconds to prepare for a 60-word text |
| Repeat Sentence | 10–12 questions – 3–9 seconds for prompt, 15 seconds to record |
| Describe Image | 3–4 questions – 25 seconds to analyze and respond |
| Re-tell Lecture | 1–2 questions – 90 seconds for prompt, 10 seconds to prepare, 40 seconds to answer |
| Answer Short Question | 5–6 questions – 3–9 seconds for prompt, 10 seconds to answer |
| Summarize Written Text | 1 –2 questions –10 minutes to summarize a 300-word text |
| Write Essay | 1 –2 questions –20 minutes to write a 200–300 word essay |
| Total Questions | 28–36 questions in total |
| Time Allocation | 54–67 minutes |
PTE Exam Pattern for Reading
The PTE Exam Pattern for the Reading section evaluates a candidate’s ability to comprehend written texts and interpret information accurately. This section consists of different question types that assess skills like skimming, scanning, logical reasoning, and vocabulary.
| Task Type | Questions & Time Allocation |
| Fill in the Blanks – Reading & Writing | 5–6 questions – Read 300 words of text |
| Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers | 1–2 questions – Read 300 words of text |
| Re-order Paragraphs | 2–3 questions – Read 150 words of text |
| Fill in the Blanks – Reading | 4–5 questions – Read 80 words of text |
| Multiple Choice, Single Answer | 1–2 questions – Read 300 words of text |
| Total Questions | 13–18 questions in total |
| Time Allocation | 29–30 minutes |
PTE Exam Syllabus for Listening Section
The Listening section in the PTE Exam Pattern assesses a candidate’s ability to understand spoken English in various accents and contexts. This section requires test-takers to carefully listen to an audio file and respond based on their comprehension. It consists of eight task types, each designed to evaluate different listening skills such as note-taking, summarization, and identifying key information.
| Task Type | Questions & Time Allocation |
| Summarize Spoken Text | 1–2 questions – Listen for 60–90 seconds, write a 50–70 word summary in 10 minutes |
| Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers | 1–2 questions – Audio prompt of 40–90 seconds |
| Fill in the Blanks | 2–3 questions – Audio prompt of 30–60 seconds |
| Highlight Correct Summary | 1–2 questions – Audio prompt of 30–90 seconds |
| Multiple Choice, Single Answer | 1–2 questions – Audio prompt of 30–60 seconds |
| Select Missing Word | 1–2 questions – Audio prompt of 20–70 seconds |
| Highlight Incorrect Words | 2–3 questions – Audio prompt of 15–50 seconds |
| Write from Dictation | 3–4 questions – Audio prompt of 3–5 seconds |
| Total Questions | 12–20 questions in total |
| Time Allocation | 30–43 minutes |
After understanding the PTE exam pattern, the next step is to register for the test. For a more detailed step-by-step guide, check out our article on PTE Exam Registration: A Step-by-Step Guide.
Detailed Breakdown of the PTE Exam Syllabus 2025
The PTE Exam Syllabus is designed to assess a candidate’s English language proficiency across four key skills: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. Below is a section-wise breakdown of the syllabus, including the topics covered in each.
PTE Exam Syllabus for Speaking & Writing Section
| Topic | Skills Assessed |
| Personal Introduction | Self-introduction skills, fluency |
| Read Aloud | Pronunciation, fluency, comprehension |
| Repeat Sentence | Listening, memory retention, pronunciation |
| Describe Image | Speaking skills, logical structuring of ideas |
| Re-tell Lecture | Listening comprehension, summarization |
| Answer Short Question | Listening, quick response skills |
| Summarize Written Text | Writing concisely, grammar, vocabulary |
| Write Essay | Essay writing skills, coherence, grammar, vocabulary |
PTE Exam Syllabus for Reading Section
| Topic | Skills Assessed |
| Fill in the Blanks (Reading & Writing) | Grammar, vocabulary, sentence formation |
| Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers | Comprehension, analysis, inference |
| Re-order Paragraphs | Logical structuring, coherence |
| Fill in the Blanks (Reading) | Contextual understanding, vocabulary |
| Multiple Choice, Single Answer | Comprehension, reasoning |
PTE Exam Syllabus for Listening Section
| Topic | Skills Assessed |
| Summarize Spoken Text | Listening comprehension, writing, summarization |
| Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers | Audio comprehension, reasoning |
| Fill in the Blanks | Listening skills, vocabulary, grammar |
| Highlight Correct Summary | Understanding of spoken content, summarization |
| Multiple Choice, Single Answer | Audio comprehension, critical thinking |
| Select Missing Word | Predictive skills, audio comprehension |
| Highlight Incorrect Words | Identifying errors in spoken English |
| Write from Dictation | Listening accuracy, spelling |
For a more detailed guide, you can also check out our free PDF download of the PTE syllabus to help you organize your study plan.
PTE Exam Scoring Guidelines
Understanding the PTE Exam Pattern and scoring methodology is essential for candidates aiming to achieve a high score. The PTE scoring system evaluates performance based on automated AI-driven assessment, ensuring accuracy and fairness.
PTE Exam Scoring Parameters by Section
The PTE Exam Pattern follows a structured scoring system that evaluates candidates on multiple linguistic skills. Each section is assessed based on specific criteria such as fluency, pronunciation, grammar, coherence, comprehension, and summarization.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the scoring parameters for each section.
| Section | Key Scoring Criteria |
| Speaking | Pronunciation, fluency, content accuracy |
| Writing | Grammar, coherence, vocabulary, structure |
| Reading | Comprehension, logic, inference, vocabulary |
| Listening | Understanding, note-taking, summarization, attention to detail |
How Does the PTE Scoring Algorithm Work?
The PTE Exam Pattern follows an automated scoring system, which assesses candidates using AI-based evaluation. Below are the key points of how the scoring works:
- Automated Evaluation: AI-based assessment eliminates human bias.
- Partial Credit System: Some questions receive partial credit for correct responses.
- Grammar & Vocabulary Focus: The writing and speaking sections assess grammatical accuracy and lexical resources.
- Content & Pronunciation: The speaking section evaluates fluency and clarity.
- Listening & Reading Comprehension: Assessed based on the ability to understand, infer, and summarize information.
Expert's Guides for PTE Exam Preparation
Last-Minute Tips to Ace Your PTE Exam in 2025
To excel in the PTE Exam Pattern, it's crucial to have a solid strategy, especially in the final days before the test.
Here are some last-minute strategies for the PTE Exam categorized by section to help you maximize your score.
Speaking & Writing Section
- Practice Fluency & Pronunciation – Speak naturally without pausing too much.
- Use Correct Grammar & Sentence Structure – Keep sentences concise and grammatically correct.
- Master the ‘Read Aloud’ Task – Focus on clarity, stress on important words, and maintain a steady pace.
- Summarize with Precision – For both spoken and written summaries, capture key points in a structured manner.
- Essay Writing Strategy – Use a clear introduction, structured body paragraphs, and a strong conclusion.
Reading Section
- Skim & Scan Efficiently – Identify keywords and focus on understanding the context.
- Improve Vocabulary – Understand word meanings in different contexts to avoid confusion in fill-in-the-blank tasks.
- Reorder Paragraphs Smartly – Look for logical connections between sentences to arrange them correctly.
- Manage Time Wisely – Avoid spending too much time on a single question; move forward quickly.
Listening Section
- Focus on Keywords in Audio – Identify important words or phrases that indicate the main idea.
- Take Quick Notes – Jot down essential points while listening to retain key details.
- Improve Spelling & Accuracy – Writing from dictation tasks requires precision in spelling and grammar.
- Use Context Clues – When selecting missing words or summarizing spoken text, use context to determine the right answer.
- Stay Attentive Till the End – The audio is only played once, so listen carefully without distractions.
Read More: PTE Band Scores & Results (2025)
Conclusion
A strong understanding of the PTE Exam Pattern and syllabus is essential for achieving a high score. Knowing how each section is assessed—whether it's pronunciation and fluency in Speaking, grammar and coherence in Writing, or comprehension in Reading and Listening—helps in focused preparation. Strategic practice, time management, and familiarity with the test format can make a significant difference in your performance.
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FAQs
Can I take the PTE test every month?
Yes, you can take the PTE test multiple times in a month, provided there are available slots at your preferred test center. There is no mandatory waiting period between attempts.
How many times can I take the PTE test in a year?
There is no limit on the number of times you can take the PTE test in a year. However, you must wait for your previous test result before booking your next attempt.
Who is eligible to take the PTE Academic exam?
Anyone aged 16 years or older can take the PTE Academic exam. Test-takers under 18 need parental or guardian consent. There are no restrictions based on nationality or educational background.
How are marks distributed in PTE?
PTE is scored on a 10-90 scale, with marks allocated across three sections:
- Speaking & Writing: 54–67 minutes
- Reading: 29–30 minutes
- Listening: 30–43 minutes
AI-based scoring evaluates pronunciation, fluency, grammar, comprehension, and vocabulary.
What is the UKVI exam pattern?
The PTE Academic UKVI follows the same format as the standard PTE Academic but is specifically approved for UK visa applications. The test assesses Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening within a 2-hour duration and must be taken at a UKVI-approved test center.
How long are PTE scores valid?
PTE Academic scores are valid for two years from the test date. However, for immigration purposes, some countries, like Australia, may accept scores for up to three years, depending on their policies.
Can the PTE Core test be scheduled a day before appearing for the exam?
It depends on test center availability. While last-minute slots may be available, it's best to book in advance to secure your preferred date and avoid scheduling issues.
Is the PTE Core more difficult than IELTS?
PTE Core and IELTS differ in the format:
- PTE Core is fully computerized with AI-based scoring.
- IELTS includes a human-evaluated Speaking section.
Some test-takers find PTE easier due to its objective assessment, while others prefer IELTS for its structured approach.
Which English test is easier, CELPIP or PTE?
The choice depends on individual strengths and preferences.
- CELPIP is easier for those familiar with Canadian English accents and conversational tasks.
- PTE is better for test-takers who excel in a computer-based format and quick responses.
Is it easy to get 79 each in PTE?
Scoring 79+ in each section of PTE requires structured preparation and strong English proficiency. While it may not be "easy" for everyone, consistent practice with AI-scored mock tests, improving time management, and mastering high-scoring strategies like template-based writing and fluency-focused speaking can help achieve this target. Many candidates reach 79+ with 2-4 weeks of dedicated practice.
Can I crack PTE in 7 days?
Yes, it is possible to crack the PTE exam in 7 days with focused preparation. To achieve a high score, practice all sections daily, improve pronunciation and fluency for Speaking, work on grammar and vocabulary for Writing, and develop active listening and reading skills. Using official PTE practice materials and mock tests can significantly enhance your performance in a short time.
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