FAQ’S

Who can take PTE Academic? Do I need to know about a specific subject to take the test?

No. PTE Academic is a test of your English ability. The test covers a range of subjects, but you are not being tested on these subjects.

Do I need computer skills to take the test?

You do not need any special computer skills. We recommend taking one of our practice tests to get used to moving through tasks. You can also watch the tutorial on our website. PTE Academic is taken using a QWERTY keyboard, where the letters on the top line spell out 'QWERTY'. IF you are not used to this type of keyboard, it may help to practice with one before you take the test.

Will I be penalized in speaking tasks for not having an accent from a native English speaking country?

No. PTE Academic has been designed to recognize speech from non-native speakers of English representing over 100 different native languages.

Are all communicative skills scores (e.g. reading, writing) weighted equally?

Yes.

How many times can I take the test?

You can take PTE Academic as many times as you like. You must wait to receive your scores before you can book your next test.

Do I have to take PTE Academic in my home country?

No. You can take it at any of our test centers around the world. Make sure you check what type of ID you have to use. Pg. 10 of the Test Taker Handbook provides advice on acceptable form of ID. If you are outside your home country, you will probably be asked to show your passport at the test center. Registration & Payment We accept these payment methods: • MasterCard and Visa debit cards • MasterCard, Visa, American Express and JCB credit cards • Vouchers and promotion codes (you must pay the balance if your voucher does not cover the full test cost) We do not accept PayPal.

Do I have to pay for the test with my own credit card?

No. You can use a card that is registered in a different name (i.e. a parent's credit card.)

Can I register directly with the test center?

No. You can register for the test online or by phone through our call centers. Contact the customer service team in your region.

My given and family names are the same. What should I enter into the registration form?

Enter your name into the family name field. Enter a period (.) in the given .

My name is too long to fit the space on the form. What should I enter into the registration form?

Enter as such of your name as you can. Then contact us so we know there will be a difference between the name you register with and the name on your ID.

What happens if my ID shows a different name to the one I registered with?

You will not be allowed to take the test and you will lose your test fee. If you made a mistake when registering, please contact us before your test day. We will do what we can to help.

Do I have to take PTE Academic in my home country?

No. You can take it at any of our test centers around the world. Make sure you check what type of ID you have to use. On test day.

When should I arrive at the test center?

At least 30 minutes before the start of your test. This gives you plenty of time to check in and pass security.

How do you check my identity at the test center?

We will check the ID you bring with you. We also take your photo, a palm vein scan and a digital signature.

What documents can I use as ID at the test center?

Your ID needs to be a valid, non-expired and government-issued. It must: • show your name in Roman characters (A-Z) • show a recognizable photograph • show your signature In many countries, a passport is the only acceptable form of identification. Some countries enforce stricter measures. If you are unsure about what ID you need, or cannot meet the requirements, please contact the customer services team in your region.

What is palm vein recognition and is it safe?

Palm vein recognition scans the veins inside your hand to create a digital template that represents your palm vein pattern. Everyone’s veins are different, just like a fingerprint, this allows us to check your identity. To use the palm vein scanner, you simply hold your hand in place above the scanner for a few seconds. The scanner uses a near-infrared light source, similar to a remote control – and you never touch the sensor.

What happens if there is a problem with my computer during the test?

Raise your hand and tell the test administrator. They will do whatever they can to help and will ensure the problem is recorded and reported.. Make sure you tell the test administrator about any problems you feel affect your ability to complete the test. Without their record of the problem, it is very hard for us to trace these issues later on.

What should I do if I spot a problem with a question?

Raise your hand and tell the test administrator. They will ask you to complete a form. This will then be sent to us so we can investigate. Alternatively, contact your local customer service team within 14 days of the test.

What happens if I have to leave for an emergency?

Raise your hand and explain your situation to the test administrator. They will advise further.

Can I leave early if I finish the test?

Yes. Raise your hand and ask the test administrator for permission to leave.

How do I know how much time I have left?

Each section of the test is individually time. You will see a timer in the top right corner of the screen counting down the remaining time.

Can I take notes during the test?

Yes. We will give you an erasable note board booklet (about 5 sheets of A 4 paper). If you run out of space, you can ask for another booklet. You are not allowed to make notes until the test has started delete Title.

Can I correct my answers during the test? 

Content you can correct multiple-choice responses (click delete Title Can I correct my answers during the test? Content you can correct multiple-choice responses (click again to deselect your answer) and typed responses (use the cut, copy and paste options). However, you must correct mistakes before moving on to the next item. You cannot re-record any spoken responses. The microphone will switch off automatically if you are silent for more than 3 seconds during an answer. delete Title again to deselect your answer) and typed responses (use the cut, copy and paste options) However, you must correct mistakes before moving on to the next item. You cannot re-record any spoken responses. The microphone will switch off automatically if you are silent for more than 3 seconds during an answer.