One app for all your study abroad needs
A number of exciting updates will be coming to Pearson’s PTE Academic on November 16th as part of its commitment to innovation and improvement. To ensure that PTE Academic test questions and performance are running as efficiently as possible, the PTE Academic research team constantly analyses and monitors the test questions and performance. They are constantly looking for ways to improve the test.
With the objective of shortening the length of PTE Academic, the PTE team analyzed several sources of information and developed a two-hour test that provides the same degree of accuracy and reliability as the three-hour test. As a result of these changes, both PTE Academic and PTE Academic UKVI are expected to be affected.
Doesn’t that sound awesome? You’ll spend less time testing, and more time doing what you want.
We’ll look at this in more detail now.
| Particulars | Relevant Details |
| Examination | The Pearson Test of English (PTE) |
| Type of PTE | Three Types: PTE Academic, PTE General, and PTE Young Learner |
| PTE Eligibility Criteria | PTE Academic: 16 Years and Above PTE General: Anyone is eligible to apply for PTE Young Learner. – 13 – 16 Years |
| PTE Score Validity | PTE Academic: 2 years PTE General: lifetime PTE Young Learner: lifetime |
| Registration Fees | INR. 15,900 |
| Mode of Examination | Online |
Here’s What’s Going to Change
This two-hour test will offer all the key features of the academic version of PTE; it will be highly accurate, secure, and provide fast results. It will also be widely accepted and recognized since this timeframe is shorter, and more convenient than the academic version.
There will be a reduction in questions presented for some question types, so the overall range of questions presented will be 52-64 instead of 70-82. A PTE Academic test will not include a minimum or maximum number of questions, but rather a range of questions.
In addition, the optional 10-minute break has been removed so that you can complete the test more quickly. Before your test, make sure to visit the restroom and grab a drink!
Questions in PTE Academic remain the same. There will still be 20 types of questions to choose from. A few of these will, however, be lowered in frequency.
Students don’t have to make any changes to their preparation since the question types aren’t changing.
Learn all about the PTE Exam here
Benefits of the New PTE Changes
More Flexibility
One of the benefits of the changes is that the test takers will now have more flexibility and time to prepare for other activities such as work or other academic pursuits. This means that the test can now be taken more easily, with fewer disruptions to one’s daily life.
The PTE Academic test is widely recognized by universities and governments around the world, so it’s important to keep in mind that this shorter version of the test will be just as reliable and accurate as the previous version. This means that universities and governments will still use the PTE Academic test as a measure of a student’s English proficiency.
Faster Access to Results
In addition, the new changes will also mean that PTE Academic test takers will have access to their scores much faster. According to Pearson, test takers can expect to receive their results within two to three business days, which is faster than many other English language proficiency tests.
It’s also worth noting that there are no changes to the test format or content, so test takers will still be expected to demonstrate their English language skills across all four sections of the test: Speaking and Writing, Listening, and Reading.
To prepare for the test, test takers should still practice their English language skills regularly and familiarize themselves with the format and types of questions asked in the PTE Academic test. There are many resources available, including practice tests and study materials, to help test takers improve their skills and achieve their desired score.
PTE vs IELTS: Exam Format, Scoring Range, Acceptance
5 Steps to Prepare for the PTE Essay Writing Task
These are some steps to prepare for the PTE examination.
- Read the essay carefully to identify the key question. Then, decide whether you agree or disagree, and then discuss the problems and solutions, and showcase your arguments.
- Follow a simple format of introduction, two main body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
- Ensure that you are only using formal language. Moreover, demonstrate strong vocabulary while answering the questions.
- Check the word count and make sure it is between 200-300 words. Make sure to use transition words like ‘therefore’ to keep the smooth flow of the essay.
- Review your answer, and correct any grammatical mistakes, if any.
To learn more about the PTE exam pattern, study materials and preparation tips, watch this video
Advantages of the New PTE Format for Students in 2025
The following are the advantages of the new PTE format for students in the academic year 2025. If you are taking the PTE examination knowing about them can be beneficial.
- Since the duration of the exam has been reduced to 2 hours, the examination can be completed faster.
- You will now receive your results in just 2-3 business days. This is mainly useful for those who are on tight schedules for job requirements, or visa processes.
- The reduction in the number of questions asked to 52-64 can make the test less overwhelming
- Moreover, the removal of the 10-minute break session helps in continuous focus on the paper.
- The new format is recognised by top universities and employers worldwide. Hence, your results are universally acceptable.
FAQs
The 3 Hour Test has been reduced to a 2 Hour Test now
The PTE test is divided into three sections: writing, reading, and listening. Students may consider the PTE reading test to be the most difficult of the three components. This is because students focus their preparation on writing and listening tasks and end up losing significant scores in the reading part.
The PTE score is scaled from 10 to 90 points, with a score of 10 representing the lowest PTE score and an increase of 1 point.
Applicants who plan the PTE test schedule and attend several practice sessions for each area can clear the PTE test on their first try. Students should also pursue a strong PTE preparation approach and, if needed, expert PTE counselling.
Some of the latest PTE essay topics are Xenophobia, Mobile phones, lack of fresh water in urban areas, and more professionals leaving India to rich countries for work. You can also get questions on stress, overpopulation, over-packaged products, and the influence/importance of television.
In conclusion, the changes to the PTE Academic test in November 2025 will provide test takers with a shorter, more efficient, and equally reliable test experience. With faster access to results, test takers can now receive their scores within a shorter time frame, giving them more time to plan their future activities. As always, it is important to prepare well in advance, practice regularly, and take advantage of the resources available to achieve the desired score.
Leverage Edu provides the best preparation courses for PTE offered in a live training environment by trusted educators. If you want to ease your study abroad journey, build a preparation plan with Leverage Edu’s Leverage Live Classes and call us at 1800-572-130.
45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today.