Which test is better for a UK master study visa, PTE Academic or PTE academic UKVI? Many candidates are confused between these two tests and don’t know what to choose in their cases.

Basically, they are similar yet different in some details. LUME will explain their differences and advise which one you should take. 

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Key Takeaways

• The PTE Academic test is a standard test version from Pearson and is widely recognized by many universities and educational institutions inside and outside the UK.
• The UKVI test is a must-have when candidates want to apply for a visa at the UK Home Office, regardless of purpose.
• Our blog will point out the main difference between these two tests and guide you through the choosing process. 

Related:

• Level up your PTE exam preparation game with our FREE PTE mock tests!
• OET vs PTE: What’s the difference?
• PTE tips and tricks to get higher scores much quicker

Why Does The UK Visa System Require UKVI Tests?

Before deciding which one to choose between the PTE Academic and PTE Academic UKVI, we should know that all UKVI tests are important for UK visa applicants. This is to ensure that test-takers obtain the necessary ability to use English in different contexts.

Below are some reasons why the UKVI exam is required for UK visa applications:

• Daily communication: It does not matter whether you come to the UK for education, work, or live. You need to be proficient in English to communicate. Without adequate skills, one may face challenges in expressing oneself clearly, understanding others, and navigating situations smoothly. 
• Educational requirements: Universities and colleges usually require UKVI tests as proof of students’ English language proficiency. For students, attending lectures and discussions, engaging with course materials, and completing assignments are vital. By taking the UKVI tests, they will also prepare themselves well for the study years. 
• Ensure fairness between immigrants: The UKVI tests are a standard for evaluating applicants. The same criteria applied to each individual ensures that the UK government assesses candidates’ abilities fairly and transparently. 

Differences Between PTE Academic And PTE Academic UKVI

Both PTE Academic and PTE Academic UKVI have the same test structure, including Speaking & Writing, Reading and Listening. They assess the test takers’ ability to use the four English language skills fluently. The same scoring is also applied on both tests.

However, there are 2 main differences between these two tests: purposes and a SELT Unique Reference Number (URN) for the visa process.

Purposes

The PTE Academic is necessary for candidates to apply to universities and educational institutions (both inside and outside the UK). This standard PTE test version is considered a must for admission purposes if you want to study abroad. 

On the other hand, the UK Home Office requires the PTE Academic UKVI for UK visa applications. It includes any purpose, such as study or immigration. It even has extra security measures to guarantee the accuracy of the test scores. 

The SELT Unique Reference Number (URN)

Unlike the PTE Academic, the PTE Academic UKVI includes a Unique Reference Number (URN). After finishing the test, you’ll receive a series of digits that are crucial to applying for a UK visa. 

Which Test Is Better For A UK Master Study Visa, PTE Academic Or PTE Academic UKVI?

The answer depends on your purposes or the requirements of your institutions. For example, if you don’t want or need a UK visa, the PTE Academic test is the right choice for you. 

You’d better choose PTE Academic if:

• You want to study abroad and need proof of your English level. Usually, it’s when you aim at a degree level or higher. 
• Your desired place is a Tier 4 sponsor institution.
• You want to apply for a work visa in the US as the US State Boards of Nursing also recognize PTE Academic. 

However, the PTE Academic will not be enough if you are asked to obtain a UK visa. The Unique Reference Number (URN) assigned with the PTE Academic UKVI will support your visa application process. 

You should always check with your desired institutions to confirm which test is more suitable to take.

The PTE Academic UKVI is advisable when:

• You need a study visa:

Student route visa, or the former name, the Tier 4 General student visa, requires the PTE Academic UKVI for pre-degree courses, undergraduate or below degree levels, such as foundation courses, professional English courses, and pathways. You can also take the test when applying for a place that does not belong to Higher Education Institutions. 

The UK government regulations state that in order to apply for a degree or courses of higher levels, your PTE Academic UKVI test result should be 59 or above (and scoring at least 59 for each part). It’s equal to the CEFR B2 level.

Meanwhile, if your target courses are below degree level, you only need CEFR B1 level or the result of 43 with a minimum of 43 for each part. 

• You need a work visa:

The PTE Academic UKVI is also required when you want to come to the UK under certain types of visas, such as a start-up, skilled worker, innovator, or minister of religion.

Conclusion

So, which test is better for a UK master study visa, PTE Academic or PTE Academic UKVI? There’s no exact answer since it depends on your target. If you aim for higher education, you can take PTE Academic. However, PTE Academic UKVI is your choice for applying for below-degree courses or UK visas.

If you want to know more about different types of PTE tests or get more practice before the real exam, visit our site for more!

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