The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic is a fully computer-based English proficiency test designed for students and professionals seeking study abroad opportunities, professional registration, and immigration to English-speaking countries. Launched by Pearson PLC in 2009, PTE Academic has rapidly become one of the most preferred English tests globally, accepted by over 3,500 institutions and organizations across 70+ countries.
What sets PTE Academic apart is its innovative AI-powered scoring system that ensures a completely unbiased, objective evaluation of your English language skills. Unlike traditional tests that rely on human examiners for speaking and writing sections, PTE uses automated scoring technology that eliminates human bias and delivers results within 48 hours, making it the fastest English proficiency test available today.
Key Features
Lightning-Fast Results: Receive your scores within 48 hours (often within 24 hours), the fastest turnaround time among all major English tests. This is crucial for meeting urgent application deadlines.
Unbiased AI Scoring: Every response is scored by artificial intelligence using pre-defined algorithms, ensuring complete objectivity. No human involvement means no subjectivity, accent bias, or mood-dependent scoring.
Global Acceptance: Accepted by prestigious universities and for visa applications in multiple countries around the world.
Flexible Testing: The PTE test slots are available almost every day, except for Saturdays in Nepal. Book your test date and receive results at your convenience; ideal for last-minute applications.
Single-Session Convenience: Complete the entire test in one continuous 2-hour session without breaks. The streamlined format reduces test-day stress.
PTE Academic Test Structure Overview
PTE Academic assesses real-life English communication through an integrated skills approach, where many tasks test multiple skills simultaneously. The test consists of three main sections:
Speaking & Writing (54-67 minutes): Combines speaking and writing tasks in a single section.
Reading (29-30 minutes): Tests comprehension of written academic English
Listening (30-43 minutes): Assesses understanding of spoken English in academic contexts
Total Test Duration: Approximately 2 hours
PTE Academic Individual Section-wise Tasks
Learn more about the individual tasks that you need to complete in each section of the PTE Academic:
Section
Tasks
Speaking & Writing
Personal Introduction (Not Scored)
Read Aloud
Repeat Sentence
Describe Image
Retell Lecture
Answer Short Question
Summarize Group Discussion
Respond to a Situation
Summarize Written Text
Write Essay
Reading
Fill in the Blanks (Dropdown)
Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
Reorder Paragraph
Fill in the Blanks (Drag and Drop)
Multiple Choice, Single Answer
Listening
Summarize Spoken Text
Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers
Fill in the Blanks (Type In)
Highlight Correct Summary
Multiple Choice, Single Answer
Select Missing Word
Highlight Incorrect Words
Write from Dictation
PTE Band Scores Overview
The PTE Band Score system ranges from 10 to 90, with each range representing a specific level of English proficiency. Understanding this scoring system is crucial for setting realistic targets and preparing effectively.
Score Range
Level of Proficiency
Remarks
10 - 29
Beginner/Elementary
Very limited English ability
Difficulty with basic communication
Not sufficient for academic or professional purposes
30 - 42
Pre-Intermediate
Basic everyday English
Simple conversations and basic writing
May meet minimum requirements for some foundation programs
43 - 50
Intermediate
Functional English in familiar contexts
Can handle routine work and study situations
Minimum for many undergraduate programs and some work visas
51 - 58
Upper-Intermediate
Effective operational command of English
Handles complex texts and discussions
Standard requirement for most universities and skilled migration
59 - 75
Advanced
Proficient English with few errors
Handles academic and professional contexts confidently
Required for top universities and competitive programs
76 - 84
Very Advanced
Near-native fluency
Exceptional command of language nuances
Required for teaching positions, PhD programs, and medical registration
85 - 90
Expert
Native-like proficiency
Extremely rare for non-native speakers
Demonstrates mastery across all aspects
PTE Academic Exam Fee in Nepal
The PTE Academic exam fee in Nepal is approximately $205 USD (NPR 30,000).
PTE Score Validity and Reporting
Validity Period: PTE Academic scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.
Score Report: PTE provides an online score report (no paper-based TRF) that includes:
Results Timeline: Typically within 48 hours (often available in 1–2 days)
Sending Scores:
You can send your PTE scores to unlimited institutions free of charge via your Pearson account.
Score reports are sent electronically and usually received instantly by institutions.
Score Review (Rescore Request)
If you believe your score does not accurately reflect your performance, you may request a rescore.
Rescore Process:
Fee: $160 USD (refunded if score changes)
Timeline: 2 - 5 working days
Sections: Applies to Speaking and/or Writing only (automated scoring)
Note:
You can request a rescore only once per test.
Your score may increase, remain the same, or decrease after the rescore.
Rescore requests must be submitted within 14 calendar days.
You cannot request a rescore if you have already scheduled another test.
PTE Preparation Tips and Strategies
Achieving your target PTE score requires strategic preparation that accounts for the unique computer-based, AI-scored format. Here are comprehensive, proven strategies for PTE success.
1. Understand the AI Scoring System
PTE's automated scoring is fundamentally different from human-scored tests. The AI evaluates based on precise, predefined parameters:
What the AI Loves:
Clear pronunciation and appropriate speech pace
Grammatically correct, structured responses
Content relevance and accuracy
Fluent delivery without excessive hesitation
Correct spelling and appropriate vocabulary
Natural voice without nervousness
What the AI Penalizes:
Long pauses and hesitations (interpreted as disfluency)
Mumbling or unclear pronunciation
Off-topic content or irrelevant responses
Grammatical errors and spelling mistakes
Overuse of filler words (um, ah, like)
Background noise during speaking tasks
Critical Insight: The AI doesn't understand "meaning" as humans do - it analyzes patterns, keywords, grammatical structures, and delivery metrics. You must speak clearly and structure responses appropriately, even if the content seems obvious to a human.
2. Prioritize High-Weightage Question Types
Not all questions contribute equally to your overall score. Focus intensive practice on these high-impact question types:
Speaking & Writing Section:
Read Aloud (contributes to Speaking + Reading)
Repeat Sentence (contributes to Speaking + Listening) - HIGHEST impact
Describe Image (Speaking only, but substantial weightage)
Re-tell Lecture (Speaking + Listening)
Essay (Writing only - worth 25% of Writing score)
Reading Section:
Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks (Reading + Writing integration)
Re-order Paragraphs (high weightage for Reading)
Listening Section:
Write From Dictation (contributes to BOTH Listening + Writing) - HIGHEST impact
Summarize Spoken Text (Listening + Writing integration)
80/20 Rule: Mastering these 8-9 question types can secure 80% of your overall score.
3. Master Time Management
PTE tests are strictly timed with no flexibility:
Speaking Tasks: Individually timed - you cannot skip or return
Practice with a timer religiously
Develop muscle memory for each task duration
Accept that you cannot change the Speaking/Listening answers
Spending too much time on one question will reduce your available time for subsequent questions.
Writing Within Speaking Section:
Summarize Written Text: 10 minutes maximum per question
Essay: 20 minutes maximum (leave time for review)
If you have 2 essays, allocate 20 minutes each
Listening Tasks:
Prioritizing high-score tasks like Write from Dictation (WFD) and Summarize Spoken Text (SST), quickly navigating low-value questions (MCQs, Select Missing Word) by using the 3-second rule, and allocating more time to crucial tasks like SST and WFD
4. Create a Realistic Study Schedule
For 1-Month Preparation (Most Common):
Week 1: Foundation building, understanding test format, basic skills
30 minutes: Vocabulary building (20 new words daily)
30 minutes: Grammar review and exercises
45 minutes: Section-specific practice (rotate daily)
30 minutes: Review mistakes and note-taking
15 minutes: Listening to English content (podcasts, news)
5. Use Official Materials
Use official Pearson practice and preparation resources
Use reliable mock test platforms
Avoid unreliable third-party materials with inaccurate questions
Possible International: The Best PTE Preparation Institute in Kathmandu
At Possible International Educational Consultancy, we specialize in delivering exceptional PTE Academic preparation that leverages our deep understanding of AI-based scoring systems and computer-adaptive testing formats. With over 10 years of excellence in test preparation and study abroad counseling, we have mastered the unique requirements of PTE Academic, helping students achieve their target scores with speed and precision.
Why Possible International Stands Out
Proven Track Record of Success: 95%+ success rate with multiple high-band achievers (79+) every batch.
Expert Faculty Team with specialized expertise and continuous training on the latest formats.
Comprehensive Course Structure with an advanced course depending on the student’s level, and regular mock tests.
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure with modern classrooms with audio-visual aids, a computer digital practice lab, and an extensive resource library with official Pearson practice materials.
Personalized Attention: Maximum 10-15 students per batch with assigned mentors, weekly progress reports, one-on-one doubt clearing and speaking practice sessions, and customized study plans adapted to progress.
Beyond PTE - Complete Study Abroad Support: End-to-end assistance including university selection, application support, SOP and essay review, visa counseling, pre-departure briefing, scholarship guidance, accommodation support, and access to global alumni network.
Flexible Learning Options: Multiple batch timings, including morning, day, and evening batches, plus online classes, and self-paced learning options.
Ready to Achieve Your Target PTE Score?
Your journey to studying abroad or skilled migration begins with the right PTE preparation. At Possible International, we combine expert teaching, AI scoring expertise, and comprehensive support to ensure your success in this computer-based test.
Take the First Step Today:
Call us for free counseling: +977 1 4547774 / 4547775 / 4547776 / 5345800