PTE Academic for study abroad: format, fees and where it counts

What the test looks like

PTE Academic is taken entirely on a computer, in one sitting of about two hours. It has three parts:

Scores run from 10 to 90 on Pearson’s Global Scale of English. You get an overall score and a score for each skill. Some universities set a minimum for each skill as well as overall, so check the full requirement on the course page.

Results and validity

Pearson says most test takers get their results within two business days of the test, and occasionally it takes up to five. That speed is a big reason students pick PTE when a deadline is close. Scores are valid for two years from the date you took the test, though each university or visa authority can set its own rules.

Fees in India

PTE for the UK

The UK Home Office keeps a list of approved Secure English Language Tests (SELTs). As of October 2026, Pearson’s approved tests are PTE Academic UKVI and PTE Home. PTE Home is for other visa routes, not for students.

Whether you need the UKVI version depends on your course:

• Degree level and above (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) at a university: the university can assess your English itself, at CEFR level B2 or above, and decides which tests it accepts. Check its English page to see whether standard PTE Academic is listed.
• Below degree level, such as many foundation and pathway courses: you’ll usually need a SELT such as PTE Academic UKVI, at B1 or above. Pearson says the UKVI version is for study below degree level or at non-higher-education institutions.

PTE Academic Online isn’t on the SELT list, so it can’t replace the UKVI test where one is required. Planning your budget too? See what a UK Master’s really costs.

PTE for Canada

The Student Direct Stream (SDS) ended at 2 p.m. ET on 8 November 2024. Older advice about “SDS-approved” PTE scores no longer applies. Two separate rules matter today.

For admission and the study permit

IRCC doesn’t set its own English test for a regular study permit. Each college or university sets the level of English you need. Check whether your school accepts PTE Academic, and its minimum score.

For the post-graduation work permit (PGWP)

If you apply for a PGWP on or after 1 November 2024, you need language test results that are less than two years old, from a test taken in person. IRCC accepts only CELPIP-General, IELTS General Training, PTE Core, TEF Canada and TCF Canada. PTE Academic isn’t on the list.

So if you plan to work in Canada after graduating, you may need PTE Academic for admission and PTE Core (or another approved test) near graduation. Read our Canada study permit 2027 guide and study in Canada overview for the rest of the process.

PTE for the US

The US has no government-set English test for an F-1 student visa. Under the visa regulations, the consular officer must be satisfied that you know enough English for your course, or that the school will teach you. Universities set their own requirements, and acceptance of PTE Academic varies, so check each admissions page for the test and minimum score.

PTE, IELTS or TOEFL?

No test is easier for everyone. Choose the one your universities accept, that fits your timeline, and that suits how you perform. If you speak confidently to a microphone and want results fast, PTE is worth a look. More detail in our IELTS guide and TOEFL guide.