The Pearson Test of English is open to everyone, ensuring we can get our target score.

While Pearson allows you to take PTE exams until you achieve the desired result, it doesn’t mean you can retake it countless times.

There are some restrictions to keep in mind. That’s why LUME Test has compiled a full guide of the PTE retake policy in 2024 for you.

Keep reading to find out more!

Key Takeaways

• You need to meet some conditions to book a retake, like waiting until you receive the test score and scheduling only one retake at a time.
• Each candidate is allowed to use only one account, and they can’t take more than 12 tests each year.
• Avoid rushing to retake the test, and seek advice from your instructor to prepare carefully.
• Taking mock tests is an easy way to get used to real test conditions and improve your weaknesses.

Related:

• Practice PTE Academic online for FREE with our proven platform!
• The only PTE self-study plan you will need to succeed
• How many PTE mock tests are too many?

Key Updates in the PTE Retake Policy

Conditions for Retakes

The good news for PTE test-takers is that they can improve their scores by retaining the exam. However, you must follow these strict criteria:

• Wait for the score report: You can only request a retake after receiving the test result. Don’t worry because it typically takes just 2 to 5 days. Analyzing the score report helps you assess your performance and pinpoint the weaknesses so that you can do better the next time.
• Book one retake at a time: Each candidate is allowed to register for one retake each time. For instance, let’s say you’ve scheduled a retake for next weekend. Then, you must wait until you sit that exam or pass that date to book another one. This policy is meant to ensure fairness among test-takers since everyone has an equal chance to get a retake slot.
• Plan ahead: Pearson allows you to schedule a retake up to 6 months ahead of time. This is a great benefit for busy candidates who have to juggle work and study. Booking in advance also gives you ample time for thorough preparation.

The Allowed Number of Retakes

According to the latest PTE retake policy, each candidate can sit 12 exams for a maximum of 12 months. Pearson has set this limit to keep test-takers from booking many tests within a short time. This can affect their performance and results.

So, apart from the previous test, each candidate can retake the exam 11 times in a year. This number is sufficient for everyone to achieve their target score while still having enough time for practice and preparation.

It’s recommended to plan your test retake strategically because taking the exam repeatedly each month might cost a lot of money without improving your results.

If you have no choice but to retake the test more than 12 times, feel free to reach out to Pearson for special permission. Once your request is accepted, provide Pearson with a form that clarifies your reason. The

Remember that this case is not always approved. Pearson only gives you more chances if you really have genuine reasons or in unexpected circumstances, like health or weather.

Accept Only One Account

Each account is restricted to a single account. This means you can’t sign up for multiple accounts to retake the test many times. 

Anyone who creates another account to schedule another retake slot is deemed as cheating. They will receive punishments clearly stated in Pearson’s malpractice policy. Here are what you might expect if breaking this rule:

• Delay the test result: If Pearson doubts you’re cheating, they won’t deliver the test result until they’ve investigated your case clearly. So, don’t expect to get the score report within 5 business days. This is quite off-putting if you are in a hurry and want the result urgently.
• Cancel the test result: Once the system detects your cheating behavior, Pearson might even cancel your score. All the effort you put into the exam will be useless.
• Ban from future tests: In some cases, dishonest candidates might be prohibited from taking PTE exams in the future. This can put an end to your dream of studying or working abroad.
• Report to authorities: In the worst-case scenarios, Pearson will inform the relevant authorities. This happens when your case goes beyond their control and needs an authorized party to handle it.

4 Mistakes to Avoid To Stay Within the Retake Limit

Rush to Retake the Test

It’s common for some candidates to immediately retake the test after receiving their results. Since they are disappointed about their performance, they want to fix it as soon as possible. However, this might backfire and negatively affect your score even more.

The short preparation time is not enough to improve your weakness. Not to mention, taking the exam constantly might put you under pressure. Lack of preparation and stress are the culprits behind your poor results.

Therefore, after getting the score, spend time analyzing your performance and identifying the areas for improvement. Then, develop a tailored practice plan that targets those areas. If you have enough time, spend at least 3 months preparing before the next test.

Ignore the Instructor’s Approval

If you have a teacher or trainer, don’t forget to ask for advice from them. Many test-takers rush to retake the exam without consulting their instructor. 

However, these professionals will have a more comprehensive evaluation of your performance. They also help you pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses, assisting you in developing your study plan.

Therefore, after receiving the test report, it’s recommended to ask your instructor to give genuine constructive feedback. Follow their advice to practice and prepare wisely.

Create Multiple Accounts

As mentioned, it goes against the rule if you sign up multiple accounts to work around the retake limits. Pearson has a specialized system to track and monitor your accounts and progress. Once they notice you’ve created more than one account to book more retakes, you might face severe penalties.

So, remind yourself to use only one account and don’t ever think of cheating. Under special cases, such as health or weather, you can contact Pearson for more help.

Not Take Mock Tests for Self-Assessment

Many candidates think that mock tests are a waste of time and money. They only need to practice with the question bank and training courses. However, experts and high-scorers all suggest taking mock tests to evaluate your current skills and levels.

Many online websites offer mock tests that you can take right from the comfort of your home. Each exam won’t take too much time. We will explain more about mock tests in the next part!

The Role of Mock Tests in Preparing for a Retake

How Mock Tests Can Help You Identify Areas for Improvement

Mock tests are based on real exams, so they follow the exact same format. Taking these tests allows you to identify what sections or question types you are bad at. 

Also, trying different topics in these tests reveals what concepts or topics you are not familiar with. This way, you can fill your knowledge gaps and clear up any confusion.

Benefits of Using AI-scored Mock Tests to Simulate Real Exam Conditions

Mock tests not only simulate the format but also the timing of the real exam. By taking these tests, you can get used to the time pressure you might experience on the test day.

Moreover, they help you evaluate your exam-taking strategies and find which techniques work best for you. Familiarizing yourself with the test conditions also boosts your confidence, reducing the stress on the exam day.

Conclusion

There are some updates in the PTE retake policy in 2024.

The most important point is the limited number of retakes you can book.

In particular, each test-taker can use only one account and schedule 11 retakes each year. Remember to practice carefully before deciding to take the test again for the optimal result.

(Read our Vietnamese version here)