PTE inspiration and advice

Explore our latest articles, guidance and advice to support your test journey

  • Group of nurses standing together in a hospital and clapping.

    Growing demand for international nurses in Canada

    By PTE Author

    An ongoing nursing shortage means well-trained international nurses are in high demand with many job openings to pick from.

    There’s no one cause of the nursing shortage in Canada; a combination of several factors mean the supply of nursing staff isn’t enough to meet demand:

    1. Aging population

    Canada's population is aging rapidly, with seniors projected to make up to 25% of the population by 2036. This demographic shift is increasing the demand for healthcare services, including nursing care.

    2. Retiring workforce

    A substantial portion of Canada's nursing workforce is nearing retirement age. According to the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario, a third of registered nurses providing direct care were over 50 years old in 2020, meaning a wave of retirements is on the horizon.

    3. Burnout

    The COVID-19 pandemic affected the mental health of as many as 83% of registered nurses in Ontario, with 34% considering leaving the profession as a result.

    4. Limited training capacity

    Despite growing demand, Canadian nursing schools have limited capacity to train new nurses. This bottleneck in education contributes to the ongoing shortage.

    The Canadian government has made a commitment to address the nursing shortage, allocating $2.8 million CAD to the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing to develop a National Nurse Residency program.

    How many nursing job openings are there in Canada?

    Nurses are in high demand across Canada’s ten provinces and three territories, with significant numbers of job openings across the country.

    That demand is increasing, with the number of job vacancies for registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses increasing by almost 10% in the third quarter of 2023.

    To help address the shortage, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has allocated $115 million CAD over the next five years, and $57 million CAD ongoing for expanding Canada's Foreign Credential Recognition Program, helping international nurses get their qualifications recognized by the Canadian government.

    Which Canadian provinces and territories have the highest demand for nurses?

    The biggest Canadian province is also the hungriest for nurses. In 2023, the Ontario Nurses Association reported a shortage of about 24,000 nurses, and the province has held the dubious honor of having the lowest nurse-to-population ratio for almost a decade.

    French-speaking Quebec isn’t far behind in the nursing need department. Canadian think tank MEI projected a shortage of about 10,000 nurses in 2021. French is the official language of the province, so you’ll need to have professional level French or be willing to learn.

    With an increasing number of residents over the age of 65, prairie province, Alberta, is facing its own nursing crunch. The provincial government even announced a Health Workforce Strategy with a pillar dedicated to attracting international healthcare workers.

    Nova Scotia and New Brunswick are also worth highlighting as they’ve recently introduced an accelerated license process for international nurses.

    Where do international nurses come from?

    According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, about 8.9% of registered nurses in Canada in 2021 were internationally educated, highlighting the significant contribution of foreign-trained professionals to Canada's healthcare system.

    Nurses relocate to Canada from the Philippines and India, with many coming from the southern state of Kerala, known for its nursing education programs. More recently, there’s a growing trend of Nigerian, Jamaican, and Chinese nurses moving to call Canada home.

    From getting ahead in their careers to feeling welcome, here are eight key reasons why international nurses are drawn to Canada.

    What’s next?

    If you’re eyeing up a move North, you’ll need to submit your nursing credentials, take the NCLEX-RN to qualify for a Canadian nursing license if needed, and show you’ve got the necessary language skills.

    Get your move off to a stress-free start with the Pearson Test of English (PTE).

    With no additional speaking exam, PTE covers all four skills in one test using computer-based assessments to remove bias. It’s the faster, fairer, simpler way to evidence your English skills and start your next chapter.

  • Woman sitting in a classroom at a desk, holding a pen and looking up.

    Introducing Smart Prep: the new way to prep like a pro for PTE

    By PTE Author

    Are you gearing up to take an English language test, and feeling a bit overwhelmed? You’re not alone – many test takers share the same initial anxieties. But don’t worry, we are here to help!

    We’ve now launched Smart Prep, so that you can be test ready with one less worry. Smart Prep is a one-stop preparation portal to get you test ready for PTE Academic, PTE Core and PTE Home tests.

    It’s based on feedback from real test takers — we recently conducted a survey of 243 students preparing for PTE and learned:

    • 82% wanted to prepare skill-by-skill. For example, they might want to focus on speaking first, then writing, reading, and listening

    • Many expressed a need for free preparation resources, especially at the beginning of their journey

    • 82% preferred having all preparation materials in one place, organized logically in a step-by-step manner

    Why Smart Prep?

    • Smart Prep combines all our practice materials in one place, so it's easier for you to stay on track

    • It’s a clear path to test day, guiding you through the official paid and free resources available for your test

    • It can be accessed whether you’ve booked a test or not – just create, or sign in to your myPTE account

    • Preparation materials include guided practice tests, introductory videos, video courses and test tips. Note: the available resources depend on your chosen PTE test, please check Smart Prep in myPTE or visit the test preparation page for more details.

    Ready to get started?

    Create or sign in to your myPTE account

  • [Asset] Why more nurses choose Canada

    Why international nurses are choosing Canada: a growing trend

    By PTE Author

    Known for beautiful snowy landscapes and hot maple syrup on pancakes, Canada has become a popular destination for international nurses seeking new opportunities and a better quality of life.

    Discover eight key reasons why international nurses are drawn to Canada:

    1. Growing demand for nurses

    An ongoing nursing shortage means well-trained international nurses are in high demand with many job openings to pick from. That demand is increasing, with the number of job vacancies for registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses increasing by almost 10% in the third quarter of 2023.

    To help address the shortage, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has allocated $115 million CAD over the next five years, and $57 million CAD ongoing for expanding Canada's Foreign Credential Recognition Program, helping international nurses get their qualifications recognized by the Canadian government.

    2. High quality of life

    Canada consistently ranks high in global quality of life indices. In 2023, Canada ranked 13th in the World Happiness Report, offering international nurses a stable, safe, and prosperous environment to live and work.

    3. Competitive salaries

    Canadian nurses enjoy competitive salaries. According to Canadian recruitment site ca.talent.com, the average annual salary for a registered nurse in Canada is approximately CAD 73,000 in 2024, varying by province and experience level.

    4. Universal healthcare system

    Canada's universal healthcare system is attractive to many international nurses. It offers the opportunity to work in a well-structured, publicly funded system that prioritizes patient care over profit.

    5. Professional development opportunities

    Canada offers numerous opportunities for career advancement and specialization. Many provinces have programs to support continuing education and professional development for nurses, and the Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario offers up to $1,500 CAD per year in education grants

    6. Multicultural society

    Canada's diverse and inclusive society makes it easier for international nurses to integrate. According to the 2021 census, over 23% of Canada's population are immigrants, creating a welcoming environment for newcomers, and the country consistently ranks as one of the top ten friendliest places to live.

    7. Pathway to permanent residency

    Many international nurses view working in Canada as a stepping stone to permanent residency. Programs like Express Entry often favor skilled healthcare workers, making it easier for nurses to transition from temporary to permanent status.

    8. Work-life balance

    Canadian workplaces generally prioritize work-life balance. Nurses in Canada typically work 37.5-hour weeks, with overtime pay for additional hours, allowing for a better quality of life outside of work.

    What next?

    If you’re eyeing up a move north, you’ll need to submit your nursing credentials, take the NCLEX-RN to qualify for a Canadian nursing license if needed, and show you’ve got the necessary language skills.

    Get your move off to a stress-free start with the Pearson Test of English (PTE).

    With no additional speaking exam, PTE covers all four skills in one test using computer-based assessments to remove bias. It’s the faster, fairer, simpler way to evidence your English skills and start your next chapter.

  • [Asset] Girl smiling into distance

    How to be conversation ready for your US student visa interview

    By PTE Author
    Reading time: 6 mins

    Getting a student visa for the US can be a long and stressful process, and one of the final hurdles is the visa interview.

    Conducted in English, it’s one of the parts of the US visa application process that causes international students the most stress.

    We’ll briefly recap the US student visa types and application process before sharing top tips on how to prepare and build your speaking confidence for a stress-free interview experience.

    Understanding the different types US student visas 

    To enter the US to study, you’ll need an F-1 or M-1 visa.

    F-1 visas are intended for international students looking to study at colleges or universities. This visa category also covers other academic institutions, such as language schools.

    M-1 visas are for vocational studies, such as culinary school, trade school programs, and healthcare technician courses.

    If you’re not sure what type of visa you need and want to understand more about the different criteria, there’s an official US Visas website with a useful Visa Wizard tool to point you in the right direction.

    How to apply for a US student visa

    To study in the US, you’ll need to apply for and be accepted on a course at a Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP) approved school before starting the visa process.

    Once accepted, you’ll receive Form I-20 and need to pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee.

    There’s another round of forms and fees (DS-160 and the visa application fee), before it’s time to schedule that all-important visa interview at the US embassy or consulate in your home country.

    On interview day, you’ll need to bring documents, such as your passport, academic transcripts, and travel history, as well as details of your intended travel to the US.

    You’ll have an interview with a consulate officer and your visa will either be approved or may require further “administrative processing”.

    The visa application process does vary depending on the local embassy or consulate, so check your local branch’s process on their website.

    What is the US visa interview about?

    Most applicants aged 13-80 must attend an in-person visa interview at a US consulate or embassy.

    The interviewer is looking to understand your qualifications, study plans, and ability to support yourself during your time in the US.

    They also want to make sure that anyone applying for a student visa intends to return to their home country after completing their studies.

    You can find more information on what questions to expect at a US student visa interview on the International Student website.

    Building your speaking confidence

    A high-stakes English interview can be daunting, often making it tough to speak as confidently as you normally would when you’re in the classroom or chatting with friends. Here are four ways to build your speaking confidence ahead of a US visa interview.

    1. Prepare answers to likely questions

    Knowing the purpose of the interview makes it easier to anticipate the types of questions you’ll be asked. Make a list of anticipated topic areas and spend some time crafting concise answers. Once you’ve written your responses, it’s time to speak up! Practice saying the answers aloud every couple of days so that they feel familiar on the day. You don’t have to memorize the responses, but by planning out roughly what you’d like to say, you’re removing that extra pressure of thinking on the spot.

    2. Immerse yourself in English

    Confident speaking starts with great listening. The run-up to your visa interview is the perfect time to revisit that US sitcom you love or to start listening to an audiobook in English on your daily walk. You could even try repeating back new phrases or idioms that you hear to build your vocabulary and practice your pronunciation. If you’re listening to English shows, podcasts, and even following English social media accounts on a regular basis, then being faced with questions in English will feel less new and different on the day.

    3. Find a language exchange partner

    One of the most effective ways to brush up on your speaking skills is to find a language exchange partner. This could be a language swap, where you find someone who speaks English as their first language and who is learning your language, or conversation clubs where everyone is working on learning English. If you can’t find a local tandem partner, take a look at online communities, such as MeetUp, InterNations, or even Facebook, to find someone you can practice with online.

    4. Use speech recognition technology 

    If you can’t find a language tandem partner or are short on time, several language learning apps now include speech recognition — a technology first introduced by Mondly by Pearson.

    This technology allows you to practice pronunciation and conversation without the pressure of another human waiting on or judging your responses.

    In Mondly, for example, the app offers over 500 minutes of conversation practice with Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) options to allow you to practice conversations in realistic scenarios.

    With less pressure and instant feedback, virtual conversations using speech recognition can be a great way to build your confidence ahead of real-life challenges like visa interviews.


    It’s natural to feel the pressure with interviews — especially when your dreams of studying in the US hang in the balance.

    Remember, interviewers aren’t looking for flawless language skills, just that your English is at a high enough level to fully participate in your course and enjoy life in the US.

    By thinking through the likely topics and actively finding more opportunities to practice speaking English, you’ll be able to head into your visa interview with confidence.

  • [Asset] Two friends, students smiling

    Which US state matches your personality?

    By PTE Author
    Reading time: 6 minutes

    With 50 states to pick from, choosing where to study in the US can be overwhelming.  

    There’s lots of information out there about the different universities and courses, but sometimes it just comes down to fit and feel. 

    Whether you’re weighing up two different options or not sure where to start, we've matched some major states with personality types to help you find your perfect fit.  

    1. California: The Free Spirit 

    Are you creative, laid-back, and always chasing the next big trend? California might be your ideal destination. With its buzzing cities, beautiful beaches, and world-renowned tech scene, it's perfect for those who love variety and aren't afraid to think outside the box.  

    If you’re at home in the water, then California is the state for you. Surfing is the official state sport and the consistent year-round swells mean it’s home to 29% of surfers in the US.   

    There are more than 30 public colleges in the Golden State. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is the largest university in the state with almost half a million students a year between its 23 colleges.  

    2. New York: The Go-Getter 

    If you thrive in fast-paced environments and dream big, the Empire State could be calling your name.  

    With multiple urban universities threaded throughout the concrete jungle, New York offers world-class opportunities in fields like finance, fashion, and the arts.   

    It's ideal for ambitious types who love the energy of big city life. Over 800 languages are spoken in New York, making it the most linguistically diverse city in the world and the perfect home away from home.   

    The State University of New York at Buffalo is the largest public university in New York, and it’s also home to big names like Cornell and Columbia.  

    3. Texas: The Bold Adventurer 

    For those with a big personality and an even bigger heart, Texas might be the perfect new home.  

    The Lone Star State offers a unique blend of modern cities and cowboy culture. And when we say big, we mean big: with more than 30 million inhabitants over almost 700,000 km², Texas is larger than many countries, including France, Germany, and Japan! 

    Texas A&M University is the largest university in the state, while the University of Texas at Austin takes the crown for the number one public university in Texas and 32nd best in the US.  

    4. Massachusetts: The Academic 

    Home to some of the world's top universities, Massachusetts is perfect for the intellectually curious. If you consider yourself a history geek and don't mind a little New England weather, this could be your scholarly paradise.  

    Pick Massachusetts and you'll be studying in the birthplace of American sports — both volleyball and basketball were invented here. 

    The University of Massachusetts Amherst is the largest public university, but the state is also home to two of the global top five best universities: Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard.  

    5. Florida: The Social Butterfly 

    Do you live for sunny days, love meeting new people, and enjoy a good party? Florida might be your match.  

    Don’t let the jokes about retiring to Florida fool you; the state capital, Miami, is known for its buzzing nightlife. With its beautiful beaches and famous theme parks, it's great for outgoing types who want to mix study and play.

    The University of Central Florida in Orlando is one of the largest universities in the country. Alongside the University of Miami and Florida State University, that means Florida has three institutions that rank in the top 100 US universities.  

    6. Colorado: The Nature Enthusiast 

    If you're happiest outdoors and love staying active, consider Colorado.  

    Home to the Rocky Mountains, its stunning landscapes, including the world's largest flat-top mountain (Grand Mesa, covering about 500 square miles), mean Colorado is ideal for those who want to hit the trails or slopes when they're not hitting the books. 

    There are nearly 50 institutions to pick from in The Centennial State. Colorado State University is the largest in the state and University of Colorado Boulder is considered to be one of the leading public research universities in the US.   

    7. Illinois: The Balanced Achiever 

    If you're looking for a place that balances career prospects with a manageable cost of living and four distinct seasons, the Prairie State might be for you. Illinois offers a blend of Midwestern friendliness and big-city opportunities.  

    Its state capital, Chicago, is one of the largest cities in the US. Perfect for those who want to combine big-city living with lazy lakeside days, the “Windy City” is right on the edge of Lake Michigan, one of the five “Great Lakes”.   

    The state's largest university is the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and it’s also home to global #28, Northwestern University.  

    8. Washington: The Tech-Savvy Innovator 

    Are you passionate about technology, love a good cup of coffee, and don't mind a little rain? Washington state might be your perfect match.  

    With its booming tech industry, stunning natural beauty, and eco-friendly mindset, it's ideal for forward-thinkers. The only state named after a US president, Washington is home to the world's first Starbucks, which opened in Seattle in 1971. 

    The University of Washington in Seattle, the largest university in the state, is consistently ranked as one of the most innovative public universities in the world.   

    Whether you’re happiest on a sun-drenched beach or exploring windswept mountains, catching a wave or catching up with a good book, there’s a state for you.  

    These are just top-level introductions to some of the defining state characteristics. The best way to find your perfect match is to research thoroughly and, if possible, visit before making your decision. 

    The US is an incredibly varied, diverse country, and whichever state you pick, we’re sure it will soon feel like home.  

  • [Asset] Women laughing with phone

    US financial aid for international students: your guide to what’s available and where to apply

    By PTE Author

    Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students, but with the price tag of a four-year degree hitting more than six figures, cost can be a significant barrier.

    Whether it’s kickstarting your career with a degree from an internationally recognized university or becoming more specialized in your current field, there are lots of different financial aid options to help make your American dream a reality.

    Who offers scholarships for international students studying in the US?

    Based on merit, need, or specific talents, scholarships and grants are one of the most sought-after forms of financial aid. These financial awards cover part or all of the tuition fees and don’t require repayment.

    Most students focus on university scholarships, but there are also government, private, and sector-specific options to explore, as well as work-study programs where students can offset fees by working on campus.

    1. University scholarships

    Many US universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, such as New York University or the California State University International Programs.

    2. Government scholarships

    The US government also provides funding for international students to study in the US through programs like the Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program and the Fulbright Foreign Student Program which helps 4,000 students each year.

    3. State scholarships

    More rare than federal scholarships, there are some state-level programs such as the California State University International Programs that work across the 23 different institutions to offer scholarships for international students.

    4. Private scholarships

    Various organizations and foundations offer scholarships to international students, such as the AAUW International Fellowships, for women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and the Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme, for academically outstanding students from a range of countries who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford to study.

    5. Sector-based scholarships

    There’s a shortage of workers in key sectors like leisure, hospitality, and nursing in the US. If you’re planning to study an in-demand field, research sector-specific scholarships like the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program to find financial support.

    How to find US scholarships for international students

    With so many different financial aid and scholarship options available for international students wanting to study in America, it can be hard to know where to start.

    A great first step is contacting the Financial Aid team at the universities you’re interested in, as well as searching online databases for relevant scholarship opportunities.

    1. University financial aid offices

    Almost every university in the US has a financial aid office. They’ll have many years' experience helping international students with funding options and be able to provide detailed information about available scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities specifically for international students.

    2. Online scholarship databases

    Don’t limit yourself to what’s available from your university. Online scholarship databases can help find more specific financial aid from a wide variety of sources.

    Popular databases include:

    • StudyPortals is one of the largest databases and brings together everything you need to know to explore your study options all in one place. They have dedicated scholarship portals for bachelors, masters and PHD study.

    • International Education Financial Aid (IEFA): A resource for financial aid, college scholarships, and grant information for international students.

    • The US Department of Labor has a scholarship search tool where you can filter by level of study.

    • Scholarships.com: Offers a searchable database of scholarships for international students.

    3. EducationUSA

    EducationUSA is a US Department of State network with advice centers in more than 170 countries — check if there’s a center near you with their online search tool. From financial aid right through to the documents you’ll need for immigration, they offer advice and support with all aspects of studying in the US.

    Which US universities offer the best financial aid for international students?

    If you’re looking for universities with great support for international students, the East Coast is the place to start.

    With the exception of a few institutions in California, the U.S. News “Best Value Schools” research found that institutions in Massachusetts, New York, and Connecticut gave the most generous support to international students.

    Here are just a few of universities offering specific support for international students:

    Narrowing down your university search to institutions with a strong track record of supporting international students can help maximize your chance of receiving financial aid.

    Applying for financial aid

    The most important thing to remember when applying for financial aid is to allow plenty of time.

    Researching the different options, writing applications, and waiting to hear back can be a long process, and many scholarships and grants have early deadlines.

    You’ll also want enough time to tailor each application to the institution, as well as getting important documents translated and completing English proficiency tests, such as the Pearson Test of English (PTE) — the faster, fairer, simpler English test. The test only takes 2 hours with results typically in less than 2 days and is approved by most universities across the US.

  • [Asset] US nurses

    Why more and more nurses are choosing the US to accelerate their career

    By PTE Author
    Reading time: 6 minutes

    The US has the largest number of nurses globally, and half of all the English-speaking nurses in the world work in the US.  

    But faced with a national shortage that continues to grow, the US has been welcoming nurses from around the world to keep its healthcare system ticking.  

    Higher salaries, good working conditions, and the ability to bring family have made it a top destination for international nurses looking for a new chapter.   

    We explore what’s behind the nursing shortage and why more and more nurses are choosing to call the US home.  

    Why is there a nursing shortage in the US?  

    The combination of an aging population and increased healthcare needs after Covid means that there aren’t enough nurses in the US to meet patient demand.  

    Many experienced nurses are also retiring, with almost a quarter of Registered Nurses (RNs) having stepped down or planning to retire in the next five years, according to a 2022 national survey.  

    There’s a shortage of nursing educators too; nursing schools had to turn away almost 66,0000 applicants in 2023 because they didn’t have enough teaching staff.  

    The result is that hospitals and healthcare facilities are actively recruiting international nurses to fill critical gaps, offering a stable and secure career path for nurses willing to relocate to the US. 

    How many nursing job openings are there in the US

    There are almost 4.7 million registered nurses in the US.

    That number is projected to grow by almost 10%, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, who predict that there will be almost 200,000 vacancies for Registered Nurses each year between 2020 and 2030.  

    Where do international nurses come from?  

    The number of nurses relocating to the US has tripled since 1994, and around 8% of current Registered Nurses were educated outside of the US.   

    The Philippines (29%) and Jamaica (29%) are the top countries Registered Nurses have relocated from, followed by India (19%).  

    Quickly part of the team, almost 90% of international nurses say they feel accepted by patients and nursing colleagues.  

    Why do nurses choose the US? 

    For many international nurses, moving to the US means better professional and personal resources and different ways to specialize, train and focus their careers.  

    Higher salaries 

    The US is known for offering some of the highest rates of pay for nurses globally.  

    On average, Registered Nurses earn just under $95,000 a year (c.$45 an hour), with the top 10% of nurses earning over $132,000 annually.  

    The states with the highest mean annual salaries for nurses are California ($137,690) and New York ($106,620).   

    Many US healthcare facilities also offer sign-on bonuses and retention bonuses. 

    Better benefits 

    The financial benefits of nursing in the US go beyond the salary. US employers provide comprehensive compensation packages that include healthcare coverage for nurses and their families, pensions, paid sick leave and vacation days.   

    Over a quarter of employers also provide childcare, with 10% providing their nursing staff with help repaying student loans. 

    Ability to bring family 

    There’s a myth that moving to the US means leaving your family behind. But with nurses in such high demand, spouses and children under 21 are allowed to accompany nurses to the US — even on a H-1B Registered Nurse temporary visa.  

    Those dependents on a H-4 visa are able to apply to work in the US, with the opportunity for the whole family to become US citizens if you progress to the employment-based EB-3 permanent residency visa, or “Green Card” as it’s better known. 

    Flexibility with the nurse licensure compact 

    Another advantage of working as a nurse in the US is the flexibility of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).  

    From large urban hospitals in Dallas to rural clinics in North Dakota, this multistate license allows nurses to practice in any of the 42 jurisdictions, finding the setting that best suits their expertise, family, and lifestyle.  

    Opportunities to specialize 

    Whether it’s pediatric care, oncology, critical care, or advanced practice nursing, the US healthcare system provides many opportunities for nurses to specialize.  

    Hospitals and healthcare institutions in the US often have training programs to help nurses achieve their specialization goals and gain hands-on experience with the most advanced medical technology and procedures.  

    Being able to specialize in the areas that are of special interest not only boosts job satisfaction, but it also unlocks opportunities for higher pay and stepping up the career ladder. 

    Career advancement and leadership roles 

    For those interested in a leadership role, there are many different options within US nursing, such as Nurse Managers, Directors of Nursing, or Chief Nursing Officers.  

    These positions not only come with higher salaries but also provide the opportunity to influence healthcare policies, mentor the next generation of nursing professionals, and improve patient care on a broader scale.  

    Professional and personal opportunities

    Relocating to the US offers nurses a whole host of professional and personal opportunities.  

    In high demand, international nurses are valued by healthcare employers, with high wages, great benefits, and opportunities to take their nursing career in the direction that interests them most.  

    Thinking of making the move? Take that first step with PTE Academic — the faster, fairer, simpler way to evidence your English skills.   

    PTE Academic covers all four skills in just a single two-hour test, so test takers don’t need to worry about taking a separate speaking test with a human examiner. PTE Academic is a computer-based test and so test takers are judged purely on their English skills. Not their accent, their age, their outfit or their appearance.  

    Accepted by the major US nursing bodies, find out more about how PTE can help you start your new chapter in the US.

  • [Asset] Student studying on sofa

    Practice for PTE Academic with this mock-test plan!

    By PTE Author

    We have all been there; it’s normal to be full of nerves before a test, with uncertainty of what to expect, and doubts about how you’re going to perform. 

    However, whilst nerves and anticipation are an unavoidable part of the testing experience, there are ways to reduce this when preparing for your PTE test, so you can grow in confidence before test day and achieve your desired score.

    At PTE, we are all about doing it worry-free!  

    And to do it worry-free, you need to know what’s coming up and familiarise yourself with the PTE test.

    Here are 4 ways you can start your PTE preparation and get the practice in, so you are confident for when test day comes. 

    1. Familiarize yourself with the test and what’s expected:

    A great way to prepare is to know all about what you can expect on test day. We have lots of resources available on our Preparation page. We'd recommend that you explore this section of our site and gather any top tips that you can from our range of free resources, also known as our A-Z of PTE. This includes a run-through of each question type as well as a video of what to expect on test day, which you can also watch below on this page!

  • Image, international student, 800px

    How to book your PTE exam

    By PTE Author

    Are you booking PTE for the first time? Do you know which of our PTE tests is right for you? No worries, we will guide you through the booking process.

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