The Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) assesses a person's English skills. That includes speaking, writing, reading and listening. These are all important skills for doing well in a world academic setting. The 2025 PTE test format has 20 different types of questions spread out over three main areas:
- Speaking & Writing: 54–67 minutes
- Reading: 29–30 minutes
- Listening: 30–43 minutes
Achieving a strong PTE score demonstrates to universities and visa authorities that the applicant possesses a high level of English proficiency, capable of studying, communicating, and participating confidently in an international academic setting. It affirms the candidate's ability to express ideas clearly, deliver presentations effectively, and engage with global peers and faculty. So, if you are planning to study in Australia, PTE is essential.
If you pass the PTE, it means you are ready for school and can get along with people who speak English. In the following sections, we will discuss the new PTE test design for 2025 and provide tips for those who are trying to get a student visa for Australia.
Key Highlights of the PTE English Test Format
Feature | Details |
Total Duration | Approximately 2 hours |
Test Mode | Computer-based with headset |
Test Center | Conducted at certified PTE test centres |
Test Type | Real-life English usage and academic tasks |
Number of Tasks | 20 question types across three core sections |
PTE Question Pattern 2025: Section-by-Section Breakdown
Let's look at each part in more depth, including the types of tasks, how long they are, the skills that are tested, and how the questions are laid out.
PTE Speaking & Writing Section (Duration: 54–67 Minutes)
This section evaluates the test taker's ability to express themselves both verbally and in writing. It comprises seven task types and is the first section of the exam.
Task | Questions | Duration | Skills Assessed |
Personal Introduction (Unscored) | 1 | 55 seconds (25s prompt + 30s response) | — |
Read Aloud | 6-7 | 30–40s to prepare and speak | Reading & Speaking |
Repeat Sentence | 10-12 | 15s total; listen (3–9s), respond (15s) | Listening & Speaking |
Describe Image | 3-4 | 40s (visual analysis + response) | Speaking |
Re-tell Lecture | 1-2 | 90s prompt, 10s prep, 40s response | Listening & Speaking |
Answer Short Question | 5-6 | 20s (prompt + 10s response) | Listening & Speaking |
Summarise Written Text | 1-2 | 10 mins per task (text summary in one sentence, max 75 words) | Reading & Writing |
Write Essay | 1-2 | 20 mins per task (200–300 words) | Writing |
Total Questions: 28–36
PTE Reading Section (Duration: 29–30 Minutes)
The Reading section tests comprehension, vocabulary, and the ability to follow logical structure. It consists of five question types and assesses both independent and integrated skills.
Task | Questions | Duration | Skills Assessed |
Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks | 5-6 | No individual time limit | Reading & Writing |
Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers | 1-2 | No individual time limit | Reading |
Re-order Paragraphs | 2-3 | No individual time limit | Reading |
Fill in the Blanks (Reading Only) | 4-5 | No individual time limit | Reading |
Multiple Choice, Single Answer | 1-2 | No individual time limit | Reading |
Total Questions: 13–18
PTE Listening Test Format (Duration: 30–43 Minutes)
This module tests the ability to understand spoken English in academic contexts. Candidates must listen carefully and respond to prompts after only one replay. The section includes eight task types.
Task | Questions | Duration | Skills Assessed |
Summarise Spoken Text | 1-2 | 10 mins (listen to 60–90s audio and write a 50–70 word summary) | Listening & Writing |
Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers | 1-2 | 40–90s audio | Listening |
Fill in the Blanks | 2-3 | 30–60s audio | Listening & Writing |
Highlight Correct Summary | 1-2 | 30–90s audio | Listening & Reading |
Multiple Choice, Single Answer | 1–2 | 30–60s audio | Listening |
Select the Missing Word | 1–2 | 20–70s audio | Listening |
Highlight Incorrect Words | 2–3 | 15–50s audio | Listening & Reading |
Write from Dictation | 3-4 | 3–5s audio sentence | Listening & Writing |
Total Questions: 12–20
Note: There are no official limits on how many times you can take the PTE Academic test. However, a 5-day waiting period must be observed between attempts. This gives candidates flexibility to improve their performance and target better scores for university admission or immigration.
Read More: Australia IELTS Band Requirement for PR
Tips for Preparing for the PTE Exam
To get ready for the PTE Academic, you need to know English and practice smartly. You should also get used to how the test is set up and keep improving your skills.
Here are some essential tips to help you prepare effectively and boost your performance:
1. Understand the Exam Format and Syllabus
First, check to see if you fully understand the PTE lessons. This needs to have all 20 types of questions and explain how each one affects your total score. If you know what to expect in the Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening parts, you can plan better.
2. Use Trusted Study Materials
Use only approved PTE practice tests and study guides to get ready for the real test. These materials help you get used to the computer-based style and time limits by showing you how the test is set up.
3. Strengthen Core Language Skills
Focus on each skill individually while also practising integrated tasks:
- Speaking: Recording your answers to sample questions will help you improve your speed and clarity.
- Writing: Write essays often, preferably problem-solution essays, and go over grammar and organisation again.
- Listening: Listen to English-language podcasts, lectures, or interviews and try summarising them.
- Reading: Reading academic papers, journals, and editorials will help you understand them better.
4. Manage Your Time Wisely
Each PTE part has a set amount of time. Don't rush through important tasks or forget to finish any of them. Instead, take your time. It's important to keep track of your practice times.
5. Get Expert Support
You might want to take a PTE preparation course to get organised learning and feedback from professionals. Some institutes, like NxtWave Abroad, offer customised lessons, practice tests, and strategy sessions based on your skills and weaknesses.
Final Line
It's more than just a Computer-based English language test; the PTE Academic exam can lead to chances to study and live abroad. With the shorter time limit, new style, and combined tasks for the PTE exam 2025, your success will depend on how well you understand how the game is set up and how well you plan ahead.
You should work on your skills, how you use your time, and getting good at each subject, such as Reading, Speaking, Writing, and Listening. You should also know how the AI-based score system works and practice with real tests.
A good PTE score can make a big difference in your journey, whether you want to study abroad or apply for permanent residency in places like Australia. To improve your chances, begin studying early, keep at it, and if you need to, get help from the best PTE coaching in Ahmedabad. Visafast Migration Consultancy is one of the best coaching centres that can help guide you through the visa process and help with the necessary exams.
Good luck on your PTE journey!
Frequently Asked Questions for PTE Test
1. What is the minimum IELTS score required for Australian PR?
For Subclass 189, 190, and 491 skilled migration cards, you need to get at least a 6.0 in each of the IELTS bands for listening, reading, writing, and speaking. This level of English is called "Competent," and it gets you no points on the immigration points test.
However, higher scores can boost your points:
- 7.0 in each band (Proficient English) = 10 points
- 8.0 in each band (Superior English) = 20 points
2. Is IELTS mandatory for Australian Citizenship?
For Australia PR, you do need to show that you can speak and write English well, but IELTS isn't the only test that counts. These tests are all okay for you to pick from:
- IELTS (General Training)
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- Cambridge C1 Advanced
- OET (for healthcare professionals)
The IELTS test is still the most popular and well-respected one.
3. Can I apply for PR in Australia with 6 band in IELTS?
You can apply even if you only got a 6.0 in each class, but you won't get any extra points for being good at English. If you don't have many visa points overall, getting a higher IELTS score could make a big difference in your chances.
4. Do I need to take General or Academic IELTS for PR?
You need to take the IELTS General Training test for most types of Australian PR visas (189, 190, and 491). Academic IELTS is usually only needed to get a student visa, a professional license, or registration.
5. How does IELTS score affect my Australia PR application?
Your IELTS score directly impacts your points score under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) system:
- Competent English (6.0) = 0 points
- Proficient English (7.0) = 10 points
- Superior English (8.0) = 20 points
In competitive jobs, getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) faster is more likely if you have a higher English score.
6. Is PTE accepted for Australia PR instead of IELTS?
Yes, the PTE Academic test is fully accepted for PR in Australia. It's the same as IELTS in the eyes of the Department of Home Affairs. This is how PTE results compare:
- Competent: 50 overall (each section)
- Proficient: 65 overall
- Superior: 79 overall
Choose the test you’re more comfortable with—both are valid for immigration.
