Minimum PTE Scores Required for UK Universities

Key Summary

• PTE Academic is a fast, fully computer-based English proficiency test widely accepted by UK universities, offering results within 48 hours and assessing speaking, writing, reading, and listening.

• UK universities have varying minimum PTE score requirements, generally 55–70 for bachelor’s and 50–60 for master’s, with top universities like Oxford and Cambridge requiring around 76 overall.

• Students must meet university-specific PTE cut-offs, and preparation should focus on understanding the exam pattern, practising weaknesses, using official resources, and taking mock tests.

The United Kingdom (UK) continues to be one of the most preferred destinations for international students. To study in the UK, you must prove your English language proficiency through an approved English test. One of the most widely accepted options is the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic).

PTE evaluates your English ability across speaking, writing, reading, and listening, and is accepted by a large number of universities across the UK. Scoring well in this exam can help you secure admission into your desired university and strengthen your visa application.

This guide gives you a complete understanding of the minimum PTE score required for UK universities, along with preparation tips, FAQs, and updated test insights for 2025.

Category	Details
Official Name	Pearson Test of English – PTE Academic
Conducted By	Pearson
Test Format	Computer-based (Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening)
Duration	Approximately 2 hours
Score Range	10–90
Result Time	Around 2 days
Validity	2 years
Fees in India (2025)	Approximately ₹18,000 (inclusive of taxes; fees may vary)

Why Choose PTE Academic?

PTE Academic has become one of the most popular English proficiency tests among Indian students because of its speed, convenience, and global acceptability. If you’re planning to study or work abroad, here’s why PTE could be the right choice for you:

1. Fast Results

Unlike other tests that take days or weeks, PTE Academic typically provides results within 48 hours, making it ideal for students with tight application deadlines.

2. 100% Computer-Based & AI-Assessed

There are no human examiners during scoring, ensuring unbiased and consistent results. The entire test—Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening—is conducted on a computer.

3. Widely Accepted Worldwide

PTE scores are accepted by:

• Universities and colleges across the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe
• Immigration authorities of Australia and New Zealand
• Several professional bodies globally

4. Flexible Test Dates

You can choose from multiple test dates available throughout the year, and many centres offer same-day or next-day availability.

5. Shorter Test Duration

At just 2 hours, PTE is shorter than many other English tests, making it more comfortable and less stressful for test-takers.

Also Read: TOEFL Preparation Online Free: Solve Sample Papers

PTE Score Required for UK Universities

Students planning to study in the UK must meet the minimum PTE Academic score set by their chosen university. Each institution has its own English language requirement, which can vary based on the course and level of study. To help you prepare effectively, below is the updated list of UK universities along with their minimum PTE Academic score (overall) accepted for admission.

University	PTE (overall)
University of Oxford	76
University of Cambridge	76
University College London (UCL)	75
Imperial College London	69
London School of Economics (LSE)	70
King’s College London	75
University of Edinburgh	73
University of Manchester	66
University of Bristol	67
University of Warwick	72
University of Glasgow	70
University of Leeds	62
University of Birmingham	67
University of Sheffield	62
University of Southampton	70
University of Nottingham	65
University of York	61
University of Liverpool	62
Newcastle University	69
University of Exeter	73
Queen Mary University of London	62
University of Leicester	56
University of Surrey	73
University of Bath	69
Lancaster University	65
University of Reading	67
Cardiff University	62
Durham University	64
University of Aberdeen	62
University of Strathclyde	57
University of Hull	54
Coventry University	59
University of East Anglia (UEA)	50
University of Plymouth	51
Middlesex University	58
Sheffield Hallam University	67
Nottingham Trent University	62
University of Salford	60
Queen’s University Belfast	68
Loughborough University	62
Royal Holloway, University of London	69
City, University of London	59
University of Brighton	56
Goldsmiths, University of London	69
Brunel University London	64
Kingston University	50
Royal Veterinary College	69
Bournemouth University	62
Anglia Ruskin University	61
University of the West of England (UWE Bristol)	58

Must Read: The Benefits of Proper PTE & IELTS Test Preparation

PTE Score for UK 2025: Minimum Requirements

The minimum PTE score required for studying in the UK varies based on the level of study. Keep in mind that advanced-level courses, such as healthcare, law, and psychology, generally demand higher English proficiency scores.

Level of Study	Minimum PTE Score
Bachelor’s	55-70
Master’s	50-60

Top-ranking universities like Oxford University and Cambridge University usually expect an average PTE score of 60 for undergraduate programs and 70 for postgraduate programs. A score in the 60–70 range is comparable to an IELTS score of 7.5, which is sufficient for admission into most UK universities.

Alternatively, if you score 50–55, you may still qualify for programs with lower English proficiency requirements at select institutions. However, this score range may not meet the criteria for highly competitive or advanced-level courses.

Top 10 PTE Exam Preparation Tips

Below, we have provided some tips that will help you ace your PTE exam.

• Have a plan: Understand what you are preparing for. Learn the exam structure, question types, scoring criteria, and timing.
• Set SMART goals: Create goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
• Utilise official PTE resources: Use official practice tests, scoring guides, and tutorials available on Pearson’s website.
• Manage your time effectively: Good time management ensures you complete each section within the given timeframe.
• Focus on weak areas: Identify and work on your weaknesses—such as grammar, pronunciation, or writing.
• Practice speaking: Regular speaking practice helps you spot improvement areas and build confidence.
• Improve listening skills: Listen to various speakers with different accents (e.g., American, British). Podcasts, news, and audiobooks are great options.
• Build your vocabulary: Use apps like Quizlet and flashcards to strengthen your vocabulary.
• Take regular mock tests: Mock tests help reduce exam anxiety and allow you to track your performance over time.

Also Read: IELTS Reading Practice: Sample Questions with Answers

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Students can study for the PTE exam according to the minimum score required by their desired university. The PTE score is valid for two years, and you can send your score to as many universities as you like.

Get detailed information about the PTE Exam on Leverage Edu and realise your dreams of studying abroad. To get a free counselling session, reach us at 1800 527 000. Create a preparation plan with Leverage Edu’s Leverage Live.