The PTE Academic is one of the most famous English proficiency tests aside from DET, IELTS, TOEFL, and TOEIC, especially at the time it was publicly released. The PTE Academic is a computer-based test lasting for two (02) hours that students can take at authorised test centres or right at their home.
In this article, we will be finding differences between PTE Academic at test centres and at-home (online) versions.
Test format
Good news! Everything about these two versions is exactly the same except the place that you take it. Apparently, when it comes to the PTE Academic at test centres, students have to take it at an authorized test centre. But regarding the PTE Academic at home, we can take it anywhere we prefer as long as we follow their rules strictly, which will be shown at the end of this article.
Some fundamental information about the PTE Academic (for both at test centres and online versions):
The same test format: 03 parts and 20 question types;
The same testing time: Around 02 hours;
The same time receiving results: Usually within 02 days;
The same fee: It varies from US$160 to 250 depending on where you live;
Advantages and Disadvantages
PTE Academic at test centres: This is a better version because we can use its certificates for study admissions, visa purposes, and immigration. In contrast, the PTE Academic online is currently only accepted for study applications.
PTE Academic Online: Test-takers can take this version anywhere they prefer, so it’s best for those who aim to study abroad and find it hard to reach a test centre. Regarding the “test centre” version, we have to arrive at authorized test centres to take the test, which will be time-consuming and energy-wasting.
Taking notes
Luckily enough, students are allowed to take notes during their PTE test, which is good news in helping students brainstorm ideas more easily and articulate their thoughts effectively. Nevertheless, there are different ways of taking notes whether we sit at the test centre or at home.
PTE Academic at test centres: The test centre will provide us with a marker and tons of laminated, squared papers or an erasable booklet to write on. Students are prohibited from bringing in their own pens and papers.
PTE Academic Online: There is an online note feature that test-takers can use during the test right on the screen. Simply click on it and take notes as you like.
cre: Pearson
On our PTE Practice Platform, we also designed a similar online note to simulate the real PTE Academic Online. If students aim to take the PTE Academic at the test centre, we strongly recommend they practice using notebooks and markers instead.
cre: TADE Hub
Test rules
Whether we take the test online anywhere we want or at test centres, there are several rules that we need to follow while taking it to ensure a certified result.
PTE Academic at test centres: Students are prohibited from taking the following things to the testing room: Phones, Electronic devices, Digital watches, Jewellery thicker than ½ cm, Wallets/ Purses, Hats, Coats, Books/ Notes, Eating/ Drinking/ Chewing gum, Smoking, and Chatting/ Disturbing others.
cre: Pearson
PTE Academic Online: The following things are not allowed while taking the test online: Other people in the room, Earphones with in-line microphone, Handwritten notes, Eating, Boos/ Papers within arm’s reach, Leaving the webcam view, Taking photographs/ Recording, and Smartwatches.
The PTE Academic Online (at home) is suitable for university admissions and currently not accepted for visa purposes. Besides, it’s not delivered in China. As a result, students should check carefully whether their dream institutions accept the PTE Academic Online or not to plan their strategy. For more details, kindly visit the Official Website.
Your most efficient practice platform is here. This PTE Practice Platform offers the following benefits:
Thousands of practice questions;
Full 2-hour mock tests;
Same grading elements as Pearson;
Instant feedback for all question types;
Fast Support;
An integrated dictionary;
03 supportive vocab lists (not for FREE users);
Other self-study supporting features.
After submitting your answer, feedback will instantly be generated and delivered for your study. Test-takers need feedback to learn from their mistakes and avoid similar errors on their test day. On top of that, we also offer instant feedback for all Speaking and Writing question types that are evaluated based on the same grading elements that the PTE Academic assesses students’ skills. Check for more information here: “The PTE Practice Platform and detailed instant feedback”.
It’s time to create your FREE account and experience all key features to see how effective this platform is in helping you achieve your desired scores.
