PTE scoring
Find out how PTE carefully combines AI technology with human expertise to deliver fast, fair and accurate scores for every test taker
Why automated scoring means a better test for everyone
We pioneered machine scoring in English tests. By using sophisticated algorithms, based on hundreds of thousands of real test responses, we can mark every single test accurately, fairly, and faster than any other test provider.
No human examiners
Each test is fully computer-based and taken in one of our global test centers. That means you don't have to face a human examiner.
Just one test
Computer-based testing means you only need to attend a single two-hour test, instead of two separate sessions, to get the score you need.
We're faster
Automated scoring means it's quicker to book, quicker to get your scores, and easier to share your scores – for free – with as many institutions as you choose.
Learn how PTE uses AI to mark an English test
How does automated scoring work?
Automated scoring matches the way an expert examiner would mark your test, but on a global scale that provides consistent, fast results for every single test taker.
To create an accurate automated scoring system takes vast amounts of data; in 2020 alone, we fed in over 678,000 examiner responses to our algorithm, and we add more every year.
When you take your test, your answers are compared against millions of past responses and the combined knowledge of hundreds of examiners, to give you the most accurate, objective, consistent score possible.
How we score each test
PTE Academic
PTE Academic and PTE Academic UKVI include 20 question types to assess your speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. Scores are based on the complexity of the question. Your overall score is graded between 10–90.
PTE Core
PTE Core includes 19 question types to assess your speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. Scores are based on the complexity of the question. Your overall score is graded between 10–90.
PTE Home
PTE Home tests are two-skill tests that assess your speaking and listening ability. You receive a pass or fail result.
How to access and share your PTE score
Accessing your scores
When your score or result is ready, we will send you an email to let you know. You will then be able to access your personalized Score Report in your myPTE account.
Sharing your scores
Your Score Report is digital and can be shared with as many institutions as you like, for free – there's no need to send a paper copy.
Common PTE scoring questions
Your Score Report is valid for two years from the date you took your test.
While most institutions accept PTE test results up to two years after you took your test, some institutions choose to have shorter or longer validity periods.
We advise that you check with your institution before making your application.
If you didn't get the score you need, you can book to take another test once you have received the scores from your last test. You can retake the test at the next convenient date for you. This can be within the same month.