CampusToCareer
Complete guide to the Pearson Test of English (PTE) for student visas and university admissions
Everything you need to know about taking the PTE test for studying in Australia
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic is a computer-based English language test accepted by Australian universities and for visa applications. It assesses your English communication skills in an academic environment.
The PTE Academic test takes about 3 hours and consists of three main parts:
Duration: 77-93 minutes
Duration: 32-41 minutes
Duration: 45-57 minutes
PTE Academic gives you a score from 10-90 for each skill (overall, speaking, writing, reading, listening). Here's how Australian institutions typically interpret PTE scores:
| PTE Score | English Level | Australian University Requirement | Australian Visa Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 85-90 | Expert | All universities (including competitive programs) | Meets all visa requirements |
| 76-84 | Very Good | Most undergraduate/postgraduate programs | Meets all visa requirements |
| 59-75 | Good | Many universities (may require ELICOS for some) | Meets most visa requirements |
| 50-58 | Competent | Pathway programs with English support | Minimum for some visa categories |
| 30-49 | Basic | English preparation courses required | Does not meet visa requirements |
Some Australian universities may have specific PTE score requirements higher than the visa minimums. Always check with your institution.
Comparison of English tests accepted in Australia:
| Feature | PTE Academic | IELTS | TOEFL iBT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test Format | Computer-based | Paper or computer | Computer-based |
| Test Duration | 3 hours | 2h 45m | 3 hours |
| Speaking Test | Computer | Face-to-face | Computer |
| Results Time | 1-2 days | 3-5 days (computer), 13 days (paper) | 6-10 days |
| Score Validity | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
| Test Fee in Australia | AU$385 | AU$410 | US$245-325 |
How to register for your PTE Academic test:
Pearson Professional Centers Sydney
Level 2, 10 Spring Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Pearson Professional Centers Melbourne
Level 5, 300 La Trobe Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Pearson Professional Centers Brisbane
Level 1, 243 Edward Street, Brisbane QLD 4000
Prepare effectively for your PTE Academic test:
Access scored practice tests that simulate the real exam experience.
Try Practice Tests
The minimum PTE Academic scores for Australian student visas are:
Note that your education provider may require higher scores.
PTE Academic test results are valid for 2 years from the test date for Australian visa purposes.
Yes, PTE Academic is accepted for most Australian permanent residency visa categories, including:
The required score depends on the visa and points test requirements.
You can take PTE Academic as often as you like, but you cannot book two tests within 5 days of each other.
Our education experts can guide you on PTE requirements, preparation, and booking for your Australian study plans.