What Is the Reading Section Pattern in the PTE Exam?
PTE Exam Pattern 2025 has become a crucial consideration for Indian students planning to study in countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK. With evolving university requirements and increasing visa acceptance, understanding the latest PTE exam structure, section-wise question types, time allocation, and scoring system is vital for achieving your dream of international education. Staying updated on the PTE Academic pattern 2025 ensures effective test preparation and maximizes your chances of securing admissions and scholarships abroad.
PTE Exam Pattern 2025: Structure, Duration, & Marking Scheme
PTE 2025 Exam Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | PTE Academic 2025 |
| Mode | Computer-Based (Test Centre/Home) |
| Total Duration | 2 hours |
| Sections | Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening |
| Number of Questions | 52–64 |
| Scoring Scale | 10–90 |
| Score Validity | 2 Years |
| Accepted In | Australia, Canada, UK, Europe & more |
The PTE Academic 2025 exam pattern has undergone changes to simplify and streamline the testing experience for international applicants. The test evaluates real-life English proficiency required for university admissions and work visas, focusing on core language skills for global academic and PR pathways.
Section-wise Breakdown: PTE Exam Pattern 2025
- Speaking & Writing: 54–67 minutes | 28–36 questions | Tests introduction, read aloud, repeat sentence, re-tell lecture, question-answer, summarise written text, and essay writing.
- Reading: 29–30 minutes | 13–18 questions | Includes fill in the blanks, MCQs (single/multiple answers), re-order paragraphs.
- Listening: 30–43 minutes | 12–20 questions | Comprised of summarise spoken text, MCQs, fill in the blanks, highlight correct summary/words, write from dictation, etc.
The exam is entirely computer-based, uses automated AI-linked scoring, and does not include breaks between sections. The number of questions and the presence of certain task types (like 'Describe Image') have been reduced or removed in the newest update, allowing for a more focused assessment of English skills.
PTE Exam Pattern 2025: Sections, Duration & Marks
- Speaking & Writing – 54–67 minutes (28–36 questions)
- Reading – 29–30 minutes (13–18 questions)
- Listening – 30–43 minutes (12–20 questions)
- Total Score – 10–90
Detailed Section-wise Format & Question Types
| Section | Duration | Number of Questions | Key Question Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speaking & Writing | 54–67 min | 28–36 |
|
| Reading | 29–30 min | 13–18 |
|
| Listening | 30–43 min | 12–20 |
|
Who Accepts PTE Academic? Top Universities Abroad
Most universities and colleges in Australia, Canada, UK, New Zealand, Europe, Ireland, and the USA accept PTE Academic scores. The exam also satisfies English language requirements for immigration, undergraduate, and postgraduate admissions, as well as professional licenses and PR visas in key countries.
| Destination | Example Universities Accepting PTE | Typical PTE Score |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | University of Melbourne, Monash University, UNSW | 58–65+ |
| Canada | University of Toronto, UBC, McGill University | 59–65+ |
| UK | University of Oxford, UCL, University of Manchester | 59–70+ |
| Europe | Trinity College Dublin, TU Munich, Erasmus University | 55–65+ |
Check each university’s admission pages for the latest PTE cutoffs. For immigration (such as Australia PR or Canada PR), the minimum scores may vary by visa category and program.
Latest Updates in PTE Exam Pattern (2025)
- Exam Duration reduced to 2 hours (no breaks)
- Fewer questions, streamlined tasks (some question types removed)
- AI-powered scoring and evaluation
- No change in scoring (still 10–90 scale)
- Test can be taken at home or test centre
PTE Scoring System & Sectional Weightage
The PTE Academic scoring system is fully automated and assigns marks according to correctness, language ability, and partial credits (no negative marking). Each section is equally important for your overall score, which is reported on a 10–90 scale. Foundation courses may be accessible with scores as low as 36, while postgraduate admissions in top universities often require 65–75 or above.
Eligibility & PR Requirements for PTE in 2025
- Age: Minimum 16 years (parental consent required below 18)
- Education: No minimum qualification, but test takers are usually 12th pass or graduates
- PR Visa: Australia PR usually requires a minimum overall PTE Academic score of 65 (may vary by subcategory)
- Retakes: Up to 12 times a year, with at least 5 days between attempts
PTE Exam Fees & Scholarship Acceptance
The standard PTE Academic exam fee in India ranges from INR 15,900–17,000. Several international scholarships and university-funded financial aid programs accept applicants with PTE scores, making it cost-effective for ambitious Indian students.
Visa & Work Pathways After PTE: 2025 Admissions
- PTE Academic scores are valid for student visas in Australia, UK, New Zealand, and Canada
- PTE is accepted for Australian PR and Canada SDS stream (check program/immigration cutoffs)
- Higher PTE scores can boost the probability of admission and job/PR prospects
PTE Pattern vs IELTS & TOEFL
PTE Academic is fully computer-based and AI-scored, whereas IELTS still includes paper-based options with some human marking. Both are widely accepted, but PTE features a shorter duration, no breaks, and a more "real-life" academic scenario approach. Universities abroad accept either; check your destination’s preference before booking.
Preparation & Practice for PTE Exam 2025
- Practice with the latest PTE sample papers and official mock tests
- Focus on time management and mastering all question types in each section
- Use official and university-recommended resources for preparation
Also read: IELTS Exam Guide: Pattern, Syllabus, Tips
Also read: Comprehensive PTE Syllabus 2025
Also read: GMAT Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
Understanding the PTE exam pattern 2025 is essential for maximizing your global study prospects, securing scholarships, and accessing top universities abroad. Stay updated on any changes, and plan your application strategy effectively for better results on your journey to international success.
FAQs on PTE Exam Pattern Explained for 2025-26: Format, Sections & Scoring
1. Is the PTE test easier than IELTS?
The perceived difficulty of the PTE Academic compared to IELTS depends on individual strengths. PTE is entirely computer-based and may be easier for those comfortable with technology and quick responses, while IELTS includes human examiners and offers paper-based options. Both tests assess similar English language skills, but some test-takers find PTE’s automated scoring and question formats more intuitive.
2. What are the four main parts of the PTE exam?
The PTE Academic exam consists of four modules: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. These sections assess your overall proficiency in English and are completed in a single sitting of approximately 2 hours.
3. What is the pattern of reading in the PTE exam?
The PTE Reading section includes several task types such as Multiple Choice (single or multiple answer), Re-order Paragraphs, and Fill in the Blanks. This section typically contains around 15-20 questions and is completed in approximately 29-30 minutes, assessing reading comprehension and grammar skills.
4. What is the PTE passing score?
There is no official 'pass' or 'fail' in PTE Academic. Scores are given on a scale from 10-90. However, most universities and visa programs require a minimum score between 50 and 65, depending on their English language requirements.
5. What is the PTE exam pattern for 2025?
The PTE 2025 exam pattern remains computer-based, featuring four parts: Speaking & Writing (54–67 mins), Reading (29–30 mins), and Listening (30–43 mins). The total duration is approximately 2 hours and includes various task types across all sections. Updated patterns and syllabus details can be found on the official website.
6. What is the PTE exam pattern for Australian PR?
For Australian PR pathways, the exam pattern of PTE is the same as the standard format. Applicants must achieve the minimum scores specified by the Department of Home Affairs, typically aiming for at least 65 in each communicative skill for skilled visas.
7. Has the PTE exam pattern changed recently?
The PTE exam pattern was updated in November 2021, shortening the test duration to approximately 2 hours and reducing the number of questions in some tasks. The core format of four skills remains unchanged for 2024-2025.
8. Can I download the latest PTE exam pattern PDF for 2024-2025?
Yes, the latest PTE exam pattern PDF for 2024 and 2025 can be downloaded from the official Pearson website or trusted educational resources. It displays updated section times, number of questions, and sample questions for all skills.
9. What are the number of questions and marks distribution in the PTE exam?
The PTE exam includes approximately 52-64 questions in total, divided across Speaking & Writing (28-36), Reading (13-18), and Listening (12-20). Each task contributes to both overall and communicative skill scores, marked on a scale of 10–90.
10. What is the PTE exam fee in India?
The current PTE Academic exam fee in India is approximately INR 17,000 (including taxes), subject to change as per Pearson's official notifications. Check the official PTE website for the latest fee updates.
11. What is the syllabus of the PTE exam?
The PTE Syllabus covers four main modules: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. It evaluates skills such as oral fluency, pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, summarizing written text, essay writing, and interpreting spoken English through several task varieties.
12. Where can I find PTE exam sample papers and preparation materials?
You can access PTE exam sample papers and preparation materials for free or purchase on the official Pearson PTE website, various online educational portals, or through recognized coaching centers. These resources provide authentic practice for each module.
