The abbreviation of the Pearson Test of English is PTE. It is a globally recognized test for the language of English, aimed for non-native speakers. This blog will keep discussion on the two PTE exam types so that candidates can choose the best test for themselves.
A comparison between the two has been done in terms of their structure, modules, test patterns, and course details. Whether it’s inquiring about how many types of PTE exams are there, or specifying which type has what kind of syllabus, this guide would thoroughly answer all such questions.
What Are Different Types of PTE Exams?
Before getting into the nitty-gritty, a very important clarification has to be made – namely, that two PTE exam types exist:
- PTE Academic: For those students who are undertaking a course or work visa.
- PTE General: This test is apt for candidates who want to evaluate general English language skills for regular use or employment.
Both these exams test English, but they are way different from each other in terms of the structure of their exams and the pattern. Let’s explore them in more detail.
A Detailed Look at PTE Academic
PTE Academic is a completely computer-based test that measures all aspects of listening, reading, speaking, and writing. The test conducted varies according to the academic and professional purpose of anyone taking the test. Universities and immigration authorities opt for this test generally because of standardized modules of exams and minute test pattern.
Structure and Modules of PTE Academic
The modules under PTE Academic are as follows:
- Speaking and Writing: Candidates would answer questions in spoken English on tasks such as reading aloud, summarizing written text, and essay writing.
- Reading: This section contains multiple choice and ordering of paragraphs as well as fill in-the-blank exercises that would assess the student’s reading comprehension.
- Listening: In the listening section, candidates listen to audio recordings and answer questions prompted in that listening time frame mostly on content but in diverse formats: multiple-choice, summary, and fill-in-the-blank.
Test Pattern of PTE Academic
The PTE Academic test pattern is judiciously divided into timed modules with the following specific scoring criteria for each:
- Computer-Based: The test includes AI technology, which objectively scores based on elements such as grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and fluency.
- Integrated Skills: Most tasks in PTE Academic require more than one skill to be used together. For example, speaking and writing, or listening and reading, at the same time.
- Adaptive Test: The AI changes the difficulty level of questions accordingly, based on answers given by candidates. This is a more sensitive way of determining proficiency.
A Detailed Look at PTE General
PTE General is related to everyday English skills and was designed to be applied in non-academic, everyday settings. Unlike its sister test, PTE Academic, PTE General is a paper-based test that measures six proficiency levels ranging from beginner to advanced and is ranked along the Common European Framework of Reference, or CEFR.
Structure and Module of PTE General
PTE General tests listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills with the modules listed below:
- Written Test: This has sections on listening, reading, and writing and tests candidates on their ability to respond to English in everyday situations.
- Spoken Test: The speaking abilities of the candidate are tested through this module as he should be able to converse with an examiner.
PTE General Test Pattern
The test pattern of PTE General is distinct from PTE Academic in the following ways:
- Paper-based: The exam is based on two components which are written and spoken, and the scores are graded by the human examiner.
- Skill-Based Levels: There are six different levels, enabling candidates to choose any proficiency level from A1, representing the beginner, to C2, representing the advanced level.
- Non-adaptive Format: PTE General does not change in terms of its toughness depending on answers given unlike PTE Academic which was standardized for all participants at different levels.
Which PTE Exam is Right For You?
Determine whether you need to take the PTE Academic or the PTE General, depending on your purpose:
- You’ll require PTE Academic. Its exam modules as well as test pattern are designed for high-stakes academic and professional settings if you need English proficiency for academic or immigration purposes.
- PTE General is advisable as a test for general English proficiency and career development. Generally, it is appropriate for evidencing everyday language skills.
Both PTE exam types are reliable assessments; nonetheless, you should tailor the PTE exam structure to your personal goals for optimal results.
Conclusion
PTE Academic or PTE General, whichever you prefer: every single test is a powerful exercise in measurement of English language proficiency-thought to cater for different purposes and career ambitions. With this knowledge of PTE exam types, you’ll know which one might help you better for your goal.
Are you ready to take the first step towards your language goals? No worries, Engramm is here to help you to meet your PTE goals with the comprehensive preparation materials you need.
