PTE Pearson Test of English is an essential English language test that helps in assessing non-English speaking individuals who want to either study or settle abroad. PTE is further classified as PTE academic and PTE general. The Academic version is for students planning to study overseas, and the generic version is for individuals interested in residency or moving for work.
Difference Between PTE Academic and PTE General:
PTE Academic
PTE academic like we already discussed is explicitly designed for the students planning to study in English speaking countries. Universities in these countries require proof of English proficiency to ensure that the students can understand and access the study materials which are in English. Also, to showcase their communication skills. Countries like Australia and Newzealand specifically refer to the PTE test for the admission process. Clearing this exam paves a path to the highly reputed universities.
PTE General
The PTE General is proof of your English proficiency for both education and work purposes. Yet, it is more accepted by non-English speaking European nations. The overall test comprises six levels, which are in link to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEF). The PTE General is a theme-based test to validate an individual’s communication and vocabulary skills. All the universities around the globe accept PTE general for admissions.
Difference between PTE Academic and PTE General: Test Validity
PTE Academic
The validity of the PTE Academic test is for two years. After two years, if you have not used the test results for an institution or university, then the test results will expire. So, you must decide your time frame to appear for the test and the steps involved for your university admissions.
PTE General
Unlike the PTE Academic, PTE overall test results are valid forever. Once you have appeared for the test, there is no need for you to retake the test. Regardless of the time, one can use these certificates for admissions. If you are unsure of your travel plans and need an English proficiency test, this could be the test for you.
Test Dates Difference for PTE Academic and General
PTE Academic
The PTE Academic test dates are available almost all around the year. This is one of the advantages of the test. Also, there are multiple centers, practically around 200 test centers. The super accessibility of the test makes it easy to plan in between your work or study schedule.
PTE General
The PTE General, however, is not as readily available. With three set exam time-slots in May, June, and December, you will need to prepare and book your test days in advance. Don’t let this put you off. It just means that you need to be more structured with your time.
Test Registration for PTE Academic and PTE General
PTE Academic
For the PTE Pearson Academic Test, one can register online at the Pearson official website.
PTE General
For the PTE General English test, one can register online using the Edexcel Online system.
Test Process Difference between PTE Academic and PTE General
PTE Academic
Pearson Language Tests conduct the PTE Academic. And, the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) endorses it which is associated with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEF or CEFR).
PTE General
Pearson Language Tests also conduct the PTE General. However, for this test, Edexcel Limited is also the partner.
Major Difference Between PTE Academic and PTE General Test Format:
PTE Academic
The PTE Academic has four modules, reading, listening, speaking, and writing. This is a computer-based test microphone included. The microphone helps in assessing the speaking and listening sections. The computer algorithms help in attaining the scores that have been designed using 1000’s of human-marked tests. The test is one-level only.
PTE General
The PTE General is not computer-based and is different. This test format is in two sections: an interview and a written paper. The written paper also includes reading, listening. There are six levels to the test based on the CEFR levels, you can start taking the test from level 1 and gradually move through to advance your English proficiency.
Test Duration for PTE Academic and PTE General
PTE Academic
The Pearson Academic lasts for 3 hours.
PTE General
The time for PTE general test depends on the level of the test you are taking. However, regardless of the test level, the minimum time is 90 minutes, and the maximum time is 3 hours.
Now that you have all the information, check your possibilities and go for the test that is best suited for your needs. First and foremost, understand the purpose and get the guidance and training accordingly. No matter what the goal is, Pearson provides the best quality tests. And, all around the globe for English proficiency, this test seals the deal.
