The updated PTE test format will deliver the same accurate and reliable results in a shorter time frame, allowing you to focus on your next steps sooner.
This short guide by LUME Test will show you the latest PTE test format changes, so you can stay ahead and be fully prepared!
Let’s take a look.
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The biggest update is the reduction in test duration from about 3 hours to just 2 hours.
The PTE new format 2024 keeps all the important features of the original test and remains widely accepted and recognized. However, the key sections of the exam have been adjusted to fit the new timeframe.
The speaking and writing section now takes around 54 to 67 minutes, the reading section is 29 to 30 minutes, and the listening section is around 30 to 43 minutes. Moreover, the optional 10-minute break has been removed so you can finish the test faster.
Pearson has reduced the number of questions for each section to decrease the overall test duration. Now, instead of answering between 70 and 82 questions, you will be presented with 52 to 64 questions.
The exact number of questions you will receive will vary on each part of the test section. Below are the PTE changes in the number of questions:
Speaking & Writing
In the speaking & writing section, you will go through 28-36 questions instead of 39-48 as before. Three parts in the speaking section get fewer questions. Specifically, you’ll have 3-4 describe images, 1-2 retell lectures, and 5-6 answer short questions.
For the writing section, you’ll summarize written texts 1-2 times instead of 2-3 times as before, and the number of essays remains the same at 1 or 2.
Reading
Some changes in the Reading sections also help optimize the test experience. Previously, you could expect to encounter 3-4 multiple-choice & multiple-answer questions, but now there are only 1-2.
In addition, there will be 1 or 2 questions in the multiple choice – single answer task instead of 2-3. You must complete 13-18 reading questions in 29-30 minutes.
Listening
Previously, most listening parts included 15-22 questions. Now, each part has been reduced by 1 or 2 questions, so the listening section now has 12 to 20 questions.
These changes aim to maintain the integrity of the assessment while ensuring that the test-takers can complete the section in 30-43 minutes.
Pearson has also improved PTE score reports for better clarity and usefulness. While you still see your Overall and Communicative skill scores as before, Enabling skill scores will no longer be displayed on the score reports.
Instead, you will receive personalized test feedback and support for your performance. You can access this information through your “MyPTE account.” Based on this feedback, you will better understand your strengths and areas that need improvement.
Removing Enabling skill scores from the reports aims to streamline the information provided to candidates. It focuses more directly on the skills relevant to overall language proficiency assessment.
This change ensures that test-takers receive more targeted feedback to guide future studies and preparation.
These updates took effect on November 16th, 2021, and aim to optimize the PTE Academic exam experience. Key changes include a reduction in test duration, a decrease in the number of questions, and a revised score report format.
These adjustments are designed to improve efficiency while maintaining the reliability and accuracy of the assessment.
The test continues to measure language skills with the same reliability, validity, and fairness. It ensures that your scores accurately reflect your proficiency level.
The 20 types of questions in the PTE Academic exam have not changed. The difficulty level also remains so that test-takers can expect a consistent challenge.
Speaking & Writing section: The 1-minute personal introduction, the number of read-aloud (6-7 questions), repeat sentences (10-12 questions), and essay writing (1-2 questions) have not changed.
Reading section: Reading and writing: fill in the blank (5-6 questions), re-order paragraphs (2-3 questions), and fill in the blanks (4-5 questions) remain unchanged. Besides, the prompt length is the same as before.
Listening section: The number of questions in fill-in-the-blanks, highlight-incorrect-words, and write-from-dictation parts has not changed.
The scoring mechanism and standards for PTE Academic remain the same. The score ranges from 10 to 90. Your score depends on how well you handle different questions, especially the more complex ones. The final score shows your overall English skills across the whole test.
The changes in test timing do not affect the recognition of PTE Academic by thousands of institutions worldwide, including governments, for visa purposes.
Therefore, this recognition still makes PTE a preferred choice for students and professionals seeking to study abroad or migrate internationally.
The PTE test format changes have made the exam more efficient and straightforward. These updates are designed to help test-takers show their language skills quickly and effectively.
Take advantage of these changes and be well-prepared for the test to get a high score!
(Read our Vietnamese version here)
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Lume Test is a leading platform offering practice questions and mock tests for major English exams like PTE, IELTS, TOEIC, DET, and more. We provide up-to-date, comprehensive materials designed to help learners improve their language skills and achieve high scores. With expert-crafted tests that closely mirror real exam formats, Lume Test ensures you're fully prepared for success. Your goals are our mission!
