How To Prepare For PTE in 2024 (Complete Strategy)

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a popular test for students who want to prove English language proficiency to study abroad. Since its inception in 2009, the test has only seen an upward trajectory.

In 2023, approximately 1.2 million PTE exams were conducted, which was a 49% increase from the previous year. 

With its growing acceptance, the outlook for PTE in 2024 is positive.

However the main challenge for many test takers remains the same, which is how to prepare for the PTE exam.

That’s why we’re here to help. We’ve done the legwork for you and prepared this guide with useful tips and strategies to ace the PTE exam. 

Let’s start with the most basic question. 

What is the PTE exam?

The Pearson Test of English  (PTE) is a well-regarded English proficiency test recognized by 70+ countries around the world. It’s mostly taken by international students who want to apply to universities in major English-speaking countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Ireland.

But before you plan to take the PTE test, you must select the type of PTE test you need to appear for. 

PTE has five different versions, each with unique goals and situations for test-takers. For example, students seeking university admissions take the PTE Academic test, whereas the PTE Home test is taken for immigration purposes, etc. 

Here are some of the versions we will examine in detail:

• PTE Academic

This test is for non-native English speakers who intend to study at universities where English is the primary language. It examines the skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening and it is recognized by global universities, employers, and governments.

• PTE Academic UKVI

This is a version of PTE Academic that is specifically designed for UK visas and immigration (UKVI). It is included in certain registration and reporting processes necessary for UK student visa and work visa applications.

• PTE Core

This is a general test in English used to apply for permanent residency in Canada. The Canadian IRCC recognizes it and considers it for those intending to settle in Canada.

In this guide, we will be concentrating on the PTE Academic test.

This examination evaluates three major aspects:  Listening, Reading, and Speaking as well as Writing..

• Listening: It tests your ability to understand spoken English in an academic environment
• Reading: It evaluates your reading skills like pronunciation, grammar, and the right approach to delivering speech
• Speaking & Writing: These two sections assess your ability to communicate and write effectively in English

One of the unique aspects of PTE Academic is its integration of speaking and writing into a single section because these skills often overlap in real life.

For those wondering how to prepare for the PTE Academic exam, it is best to self-study by using the free online PTE courses available on the official website or join a coaching center for a more structured and interactive preparation. 

Otherwise, you can also look through the PTE exam preparation strategy we’ve mentioned below.

PTE 2024 exam preparation strategy and tips

Here’s how you can prepare well for PTE 2024:

Step 1: Know your target score 

Firstly, set a clear goal or target for your PTE score, which will help you pinpoint the level of preparation needed. 

Always aim for a score slightly higher than the minimum score accepted by your selected university. This will guide the intensity and focus of your study efforts. 

A score above 65 is considered good and is equivalent to a 7 band in IELTS, which is accepted by top universities like New York University, Colorado State University, and the University of Illinois. 

Scores up to 53 or 50 are also considered for mid-level universities like Arizona State University.   

So, depending on your choice of university and target score, you can plan your study in a more focused and strategic manner. However, this is only possible if you understand the exam pattern and allocate the right amount of time to each section.  

Step 2: Familiarize yourself with the exam format

If you’re new to the PTE exam, it would be helpful to understand each section individually. Below is a breakdown of the exam pattern, including the tasks and the duration allocated to each section.

• ‘Speaking & writing’ section

Duration: 54 -67 minutes

• ‘Reading’ section

Duration: 29-30 minutes

• ‘Listening’ section

Duration: 30-43 minutes

Step 3: Create a study plan

For initial guidance, you can seek help from the ‘Official Guide to PTE Academic,’ which provides detailed test guidance and tried-and-tested methods for preparing a study plan for the PTE exam. This resource also has tips for building strategies to ace particular sections. 

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Step 4: Use the PTE preparation app

You can also prepare for PTE using the free official practice app. It provides access to various study materials and interactive tools to enhance your preparation significantly.

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They offer the following PTE preparation packages:

• Gold Package for ₹8,180
• Silver Package for ₹5,663
• Bronze Package for ₹3,775

These packages include practice tests, question banks, and official guides.

Step 5:  Focus on vocabulary and grammar

To crack the PTE, you must establish a strong vocabulary and a solid grasp of grammar. Try to read newspapers and novels regularly, as they improve your reading skills and improve your pronunciation and enunciation. 

You can also use online vocabulary tools and apps to learn and practice new words. Fortunately, Peterson offers an updated academic collocation list with the most frequent and pedagogically relevant vocabulary words in English. 

Step 6: Practice all the four skills

To do well in the speaking and reading section, improve your pronunciation and fluency. Regularly practice speaking in front of a mirror to refine your oral responses. Additionally, listening to English podcasts and watching English shows or movies is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the language. 

The Listening section requires sharp attention to detail, so listening to various English audio sources will improve your ability to understand different accents and speaking speeds.    

To prepare for the ‘Writing’ section, practice drafting structured essays and responses. Try writing clear introductions, well-developed body paragraphs, and cohesive conclusions using new words added to your vocabulary. This will improve your ability to write in the PTE exam.

Step 7: Take regular mock tests

Mock tests simulate the actual exam conditions and help you adapt to the timing and pressure of the real test. Use PTE’s scored practice tests and the PTE Taster Test, as these are free resources available online. 

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These practice sessions are also a great way to track your progress and identify areas for improvement.

Following these strategies diligently will positively impact the quality of your preparation and help you get a high score.  

Step 8: Join online forums and study groups

Engage with other PTE test takers through online forums and study groups where people share their experiences.  These tips can provide additional insights and motivate you to focus on your preparation goals. 

Look up how to prepare for the PTE exam on Quora, Reddit, and ExpatForum, and you’ll find excellent resources for connecting with peers who are also preparing for the exam. 

This will help you gain a different perspective while studying, prepare more alertly, and gain insights into other people’s preparation methodologies and strategies. 

With these preparation strategies and tips, you’ll be ready to do your best on the PTE 2024 exam. 

Now, let’s look at the benefits of taking the PTE exam and why it could be the right choice for you.

Advantages of taking a PTE exam

There are many advantages of the PTE exam that appeal to students. Here are some key benefits of the PTE exam. 

Global recognition

Most reputed educational institutions around the world recognize the PTE Academic as a reliable measure of an applicant’s English skills. Its growing acceptance worldwide means your PTE score will be valued across many universities and professional organizations.

Rapid results

PTE is swift in announcing the results. You’ll typically get your results within 3-5 business days and sometimes as quickly as within 24 hours. This quick turnaround can be crucial for meeting application deadlines and planning your next steps.

Available in at-home format 

The PTE exam can be taken in a test center or from the comfort of your home. This latter option is very convenient for people who live far away from the test centers or have special healthcare issues due to which they can’t afford to write this computer-based exam in a test center. These options give them an equal and fair opportunity to attempt the test with other candidates.

Flexible test dates

PTE provides exceptional flexibility with over 450+ authorized centers globally, operating 365 days a year. 

This flexibility allows you to choose a test date and time that best fits your schedule. This way you can prepare well in advance and have a better chance of success on the first attempt.

Send unlimited score reports at no extra cost

PTE allows you to send your standardized score to more than a specified number of institutions without having to pay extra for each additional school beyond the initial set limit, which is common with other standardized tests.   

Fair and accurate scoring

The PTE exam uses a detailed scoring system to ensure fairness and accuracy:

Correct or Incorrect Scoring:

• Some tasks are scored simply as correct or incorrect.
• If your response is correct, you earn 1 point. If it’s incorrect, you receive no points.

Partial Credit Scoring:

• Other tasks are scored with partial credit, recognizing partially correct answers.
• For these tasks, a fully correct response earns the maximum score points. Partially correct responses receive some points, but less than the maximum.

This scoring system adds flexibility and nuance, making sure you are fairly awarded for your knowledge and effort.

So, it’s clear that the PTE exam gives you a significant advantage in proving your English proficiency, in comparison to other traditional tests such as IELTS and TOEFL. 

While you prepare for your PTE exam, you will also need to search across hundreds of universities. This can be tiring. That’s why so many students give up on the research and go ahead with a random selection of universities subject to only a few filters of ranking, fees, scholarships, etc. There is a much better way–SelectRight. 

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So, before we wrap up this guide to preparing for PTE, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about PTE. 

FAQs

What is the syllabus for the PTE Academic test?

The PTE Academic test covers ‘Reading’, ‘Writing’, ‘Speaking’, and ‘Listening’ skills. Details are available in the sections above.

How difficult is the PTE Academic test?

With a thorough understanding of the syllabus and adequate preparation, the PTE Academic test should not be difficult to take.

Can you appear for the PTE Academic exam without studying?

It is advisable to prepare well using official resources and the guidelines provided in our article before taking the PTE Academic exam.

Are pen and paper allowed in the PTE Academic exam?

No, the PTE Academic exam is fully computer-based, and test centers provide all necessary equipment.

How often can you take the PTE Academic exam?

You can retake the PTE Academic exam as often as you like, but you must wait until you receive your scores from one attempt before booking another.

How long does it take to prepare for the PTE exam?

Preparation time varies, but a few months of dedicated study is typically recommended to cover all sections effectively.

What are the best resources for PTE exam preparation?

When preparing for the PTE exam, using official PTE materials and reputable websites is essential. Official resources provide comprehensive preparation tools that are specifically designed to help you understand the test format and improve your skills. Additionally, websites like Pearson’s official site, E2Language, and PTE Tutorials offer practice tests, study guides, and tips to enhance your preparation.

How can I improve my PTE Academic score?

Regular practice using mock tests and focusing on weak areas are effective strategies to improve your score.

What makes the PTE Academic different from other English proficiency tests?

The PTE Academic is recognized for its fast results and unbiased, AI-based scoring system.

Where can I find practice materials for the PTE Academic exam?

You can find practice materials for the PTE Academic exam on the official PTE website. Additionally, you can refer to forums dedicated to the PTE exam to see recommendations from other students. Also check out similar recommendations for PTE practice material on Quora.