The PTE (Pearson Test of English) Exam Pattern 2025 comprises three sections – Speaking and Writing (28-36 questions, 54-67 minutes), Reading (13-18 questions, 29-30 minutes), and Listening (12-20 questions, 30-43 minutes)—making the test approximately 2 hours long. This computer-based exam uses AI-driven scoring, ensuring fair and unbiased assessment, with scores ranging from 0 to 90. Understanding the PTE Exam Pattern is crucial for effective preparation, as each section evaluates different aspects of English proficiency, including fluency, grammar, comprehension, and listening skills.
Table of Contents
PTE Exam Pattern 2025 – Overview
As per the PTE Exam Pattern 2025, the PTE Academic test is structured into three parts- Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening. The total test duration is approximately 2 hours. The exam is computer-based, using an advanced automated scoring system to ensure objective assessment.
Here is an overview of the PTE Academic Exam Pattern:
| Parts of PTE Academic Exam | Number of Questions | Test Duration | Purpose |
| Speaking and Writing | 28 – 36 questions | 54 – 67 minutes | Assesses fluency, pronunciation, grammar, coherence, and written skills. |
| Reading | 13 – 18 questions | 29 – 30 minutes | Evaluates comprehension, text organisation, and vocabulary. |
| Listening | 12 – 20 questions | 30 – 43 minutes | Tests ability to understand spoken English in academic settings. |
Also Read:
PTE Exam Pattern 2025 – Section-wise
To understand the PTE Exam Pattern 2025, it is essential to know about the number of questions, time allocation, and objective of each topic. Thus, in this section, we have laid out exam pattern for each section of PTE .
PTE Speaking and Writing Section Exam Pattern
In PTE Speaking and Writing section, candidates will face 28 to 36 questions in 54 to 67 minutes. For details refer to the following table:
| Task | Number of Questions | Time Allocated (Estimate) | Purpose |
| Personal Introduction | 1 | 1 minute | Allows candidates to introduce themselves. |
| Read Aloud | 6 – 7 | 3-5 minutes (30-40 seconds per task) | Assesses reading fluency and pronunciation. |
| Repeat Sentence | 10 – 12 | 3-4 minutes (15 seconds per task) | Tests memory, pronunciation, and sentence structure. |
| Describe Image | 3 – 4 | 3-4 minutes (25 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to respond per task) | Evaluates the ability to analyze and speak fluently. |
| Re-tell Lecture | 1 – 2 | 1-2 minutes (10 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to respond per task) | Measures listening comprehension and speaking ability. |
| Answer Short Question | 5 – 6 | 1-2 minutes (10 seconds per task) | Tests ability to comprehend and respond concisely. |
| Summarise Written Text | 1 – 2 | 10-20 minutes (10 minutes per task) | Assesses reading and writing concisely. |
| Essay | 1 | 20 minutes | Evaluates writing skills, coherence, and grammar. |
Also Read: PTE Academic vs PTE General
Also Read: PTE Registration
PTE Reading Section Exam Pattern
Furthermore, the Reading section of the PTE Academic consists of 13 to 18 questions. Candidates are expected to answer all the questions within 29 to 30 minutes. Refer to the following table for further details.
| Task | Number of Questions | Time Allocated (Estimate) | Purpose |
| Reading & Writing: Fill in Blanks | 5 – 6 | 10-15 minutes (2-3 minutes per task) | Tests reading comprehension. |
| Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers | 1 – 2 | 2-6 minutes (2-3 minutes per task) | Assesses deeper understanding of the text. |
| Re-order Paragraphs | 2 – 3 | 4-12 minutes (2-4 minutes per task) | Evaluates logical arrangement of text. |
| Reading: Fill in the Blanks | 4 – 5 | 8-15 minutes (2-3 minutes per task) | Tests vocabulary and grammar. |
| Multiple Choice, Single Answer | 1 – 2 | 1-4 minutes (1-2 minutes per task) | Assesses integrated reading and writing ability. |
Also Read: PTE Exam Date in India
PTE Listening Section Exam Pattern
Lastly, the PTE Exam Pattern 2025 for the Listening section has 12 to 20 questions, which are to be solved within 30 to 43 minutes. For more details, have a look at the table below.
| Task | Number of Questions | Time Allocated (Estimate) | Purpose |
| Summarise Spoken Text | 1 – 2 | 10-20 minutes (10 minutes per task) | Tests listening comprehension and writing skills. |
| Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers | 1 – 2 | 2-6 minutes (2-3 minutes per task) | Evaluates listening and analytical skills. |
| Fill in the Blanks | 2 – 3 | 4-9 minutes (2-3 minutes per task) | Assesses listening and grammar skills. |
| Highlight Correct Summary | 1 – 2 | 2-6 minutes (2-3 minutes per task) | Tests the ability to extract key information. |
| Multiple Choice, Single Answer | 1 – 2 | 1-4 minutes (1-2 minutes per task) | Measures understanding of spoken English. |
| Select Missing Word | 1 – 2 | 1-4 minutes (1-2 minutes per task) | Evaluates contextual listening. |
| Highlight Incorrect Words | 2 – 3 | 4-9 minutes (2-3 minutes per task) | Tests listening and reading comprehension. |
| Write from Dictation | 3 – 4 | 6-12 minutes (2-3 minutes per task) | Assesses memory, spelling, and listening skills. |
Also Read: How to Prepare for PTE Exam at Home
PTE Academic Exam 2025 Scoring Pattern
The PTE Academic scoring system is fully automated and uses artificial intelligence to ensure fair and unbiased assessment. Scores range from 10 to 90, with higher scores indicating greater proficiency in English. Each section contributes to the overall score, and the exam evaluates communicative and enabling skills.
Here is the scoring pattern for PTE Academic to help candidates understand the PTE Exam Pattern 2025:
| Sections of PTE Academic | Topic: Score Range | Scoring/Evaluation Criteria |
| Speaking and Writing | Personal Introduction: Unscored | Fluency, coherence, pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, content relevance. |
| Read Aloud: 0-90 | ||
| Repeat Sentence: 0-90 | ||
| Describe Image: 0-90 | ||
| Re-tell Lecture: 0-90 | ||
| Answer Short Question: 0-90 | ||
| Summarise Written Text: 0-90 | ||
| Essay: 0-90 | ||
| Reading | Reading & Writing: Fill in Blanks: 0-90 | Comprehension, vocabulary, logical reasoning, and contextual understanding. |
| Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers: 0-90 | ||
| Re-order Paragraphs: 0-90 | ||
| Reading: Fill in the Blanks: 0-90 | ||
| Multiple Choice, Single Answer: 0-90 | ||
| Listening | Summarise Spoken Text: 0-90 | Ability to understand spoken English, identify details, and grasp key ideas. |
| Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers: 0-90 | ||
| Fill in the Blanks: 0-90 | ||
| Highlight Correct Summary: 0-90 | ||
| Multiple Choice, Single Answer: 0-90 | ||
| Select Missing Word: 0-90 | ||
| Highlight Incorrect Words: 0-90 | ||
| Write from Dictation: 0-90 |
Also Read:
PTE Preparation Tips
To excel in the PTE Academic exam, consider the following strategies:
- Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure, question types, and timing of each section.
- Practice Regularly: Engage in consistent practice using official PTE preparation materials and mock tests to build confidence and identify areas for improvement.
- Develop Time Management Skills: Work on pacing yourself to ensure you can complete each section within the allotted time.
- Enhance Vocabulary and Grammar: A strong command of English vocabulary and grammar will aid in all sections of the test.
- Seek Feedback: Consider enrolling in a PTE preparation course or working with a tutor to receive constructive feedback on your performance.
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of any further changes to the exam pattern or scoring criteria by regularly visiting the official PTE website.
Also Read: PTE Band Score
PTE Exam Pattern FAQs
Q1. What is the format of PTE exam?
Ans: The PTE Academic exam consists of three sections: Speaking and Writing (54-67 minutes, 28-36 questions), Reading (29-30 minutes, 13-18 questions), and Listening (30-43 minutes, 12-20 questions). It is a computer-based test using AI for scoring.
Q2. What is PTE passing score?
Ans: PTE does not have a fixed passing score; however, universities and immigration authorities set their own requirements. Generally, a score of 50-65 is considered good for admissions, while 65-79 is preferred for higher studies and 79+ for top universities and PR applications.
Q3. Is PTE easier than IELTS?
Ans: PTE and IELTS have different formats. Many test-takers find PTE easier because it is computer-based with automated scoring, whereas IELTS involves human examiners, especially in the Speaking section. However, difficulty varies based on an individual’s strengths in computer-based vs. face-to-face assessments.