PTE Score Chart 2024: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

Understanding the PTE score chart is crucial for test-takers aiming to achieve their desired scores. The Pearson Test of English (PTE) assesses English language proficiency across speaking, writing, reading, and listening. This guide covers the PTE score chart, explaining its significance and providing an overview of how scores are calculated. The PTE score is recognized by various educational institutions and immigration authorities, making it essential for academic and professional purposes.

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What is PTE Score Report & Distribution Chart

The PTE score report provides a comprehensive overview of a test-taker’s English proficiency. It includes an overall score, communicative skills scores, and enabling skills scores. Each of these components plays a critical role in determining the overall performance in the PTE exam.

Communicative Skills Scores: These scores evaluate the test-taker’s listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills. Each skill is scored individually, and the scores range from 10-90. These scores are crucial as they directly reflect a candidate’s ability to understand and use English in academic and everyday contexts.

Enabling Skills Scores: These scores include grammar, oral fluency, pronunciation, spelling, vocabulary, and written discourse. These skills are fundamental to effective communication and are also scored from 10-90. They provide a deeper insight into the specific areas of language use that need improvement.

Scoring Algorithm: The PTE uses a combination of automated scoring algorithms and human raters to ensure accurate and fair scoring. The automated system evaluates responses based on various linguistic parameters while human raters validate the scores. This dual approach ensures that the scoring process is both comprehensive and unbiased.

Score Distribution Chart: The score distribution chart helps test-takers understand how their scores are spread across different skills. Here is a breakdown of the PTE score chart:


PTE ScoreCEFR LevelLevel of English Proficiency
85-90C2Expert 
76-84C1Advanced
59-75B2Upper-Intermediate
43-58B1Intermediate
30-42A2Elementary
10-29A1Beginner

Test-takers can use this chart to identify their strengths and areas for improvement. For instance, a score in the ‘Competent’ range indicates a solid understanding of English but also highlights areas that can be enhanced for better proficiency.

Overview of the PTE Exam Scoring System, Chart & Marking Criteria

The PTE exam employs a rigorous scoring methodology to ensure reliable and consistent results. The PTE scoring system is based on performance across various tasks and question types, providing a holistic assessment of English language proficiency.

Automated Scoring and Human Raters: The PTE exam uses advanced automated scoring algorithms to evaluate responses. These algorithms are designed to assess linguistic features such as content, form, and language use. Human raters are involved in validating scores, ensuring the accuracy and fairness of the PTE score chart. This combination of automated and human scoring helps in minimising bias and ensures a balanced evaluation.

Task-Based Scoring: Each task in the PTE exam contributes to the overall score. For example, in the speaking section, tasks like “Read Aloud” and “Repeat Sentence” are scored separately, and the scores are combined to provide an overall speaking score. This method ensures that every aspect of language use is accurately assessed.

PTE Reading Score Chart: The reading section includes tasks such as multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blanks, and re-order paragraphs. Here’s how these tasks are scored:

Task Type<Scoring MethodPrompt LengthCommunicative Skills Scored
Multiple Choice – Single Correct AnswerCorrect/IncorrectUp to 300 words

·         Reading

·         Comprehension

Multiple Choice – Multiple Correct AnswersPartial CreditUp to 300 words

·         Reading

·         Comprehension

·         Scanning

Reading and Writing Fill in the BlanksPartial CreditUp to 300 words

·         Reading

·         Comprehension

·         Vocabulary

·         Grammar

Fill in the BlanksPartial CreditUp to 80 words

·         Reading

·         Comprehension

·         Vocabulary

·         Grammar

Re-order ParagraphsPartial CreditUp to 150 words

·         Reading

·         Comprehension

·         Text Organization

·         Logic

This table provides a clear breakdown of the different task types in the PTE exam, the scoring methods used, the length of prompts, and the specific communicative skills each task assesses.

PTE Listening Score Chart: The listening section includes tasks like summarising, spoken text and multiple-choice questions. The PTE Listening test spans 30 to 43 minutes and consists of eight different question types. These questions are derived from audio or video clips that are displayed on the screen. Students only get to listen to these clips once before they must answer the corresponding questions. Here’s the PTE score chart for listening:

Task TypeScoring MethodPrompt LengthCommunicative Skills
Multiple Choice – Single AnswerCorrect/Incorrect30-90 seconds

·         Listening

·         Comprehension

Multiple Choice – Multiple AnswersPartial Credit40-90 seconds

·         Listening

·         Comprehension

·         Detail Identification

Fill in the BlanksPartial Credit30-60 seconds

·         Listening

·         Comprehension

·         Spelling

·         Vocabulary

Highlight Correct SummaryPartial credit30-90 seconds

·         Listening

·         Comprehension

·         Summarization

Write from DictationPartial Credit3-5 seconds

·         Listening

·         Comprehension

·         Spelling

·         Grammar

Select Missing WordCorrect/Incorrect20-70 seconds

·         Listening

·         Comprehension

·         Vocabulary

Highlight Incorrect WordCorrect/Incorrect15-50 seconds

·         Listening

·         Comprehension

·         Reading

Summarise Spoken TextPartial Credit30-90 seconds

·         Listening

·         Comprehension

·         Summarization

·         Conciseness

Interpretation of PTE Scores

Interpreting your PTE scores is crucial for understanding your proficiency in English. Each score reflects a specific level of ability, from basic to advanced. Here’s a breakdown of what your scores signify:
PTE Score RangeSkills Evaluated
10-29Understanding and using simple idioms and basic grammar. Basic communication and interpersonal skills.
30-42Ability to discuss familiar topics using everyday phrases and expressions. Improved interaction skills and sharing basic personal information.
43-50Ability to engage in conversations about related ideas, using common expressions and language. Enhanced communication skills and sharing of basic personal details.
51-58Good command of the language, able to communicate real-world information. Skills to convey and record information effectively.
59-75Ability to speak clearly and interact with minimal errors. Skilled at emphasising key points related to specific subjects.
75-84Capable of understanding complex texts and highlighting main ideas. Effective communication skills and ability to describe oneself clearly.
85 and aboveHighly advanced communication skills. Ability to comprehend information from multiple sources and present it clearly.
This table provides a clear understanding of the skills evaluated at each PTE score range, helping test-takers identify their proficiency level and areas for improvement.

PTE Score Requirements

Different institutions have varying score requirements based on their needs:

  • Academic Admissions: Universities often require scores between 51-60 for undergraduate programs and 57-67 for postgraduate programs to ensure students can cope with academic demands.
  • Visa Applications: Immigration authorities may require a minimum score of 43-58 (B1) for general migration and higher for skilled migration, ensuring applicants can integrate effectively.
  • Professional Certifications: Certain professions might demand scores in the 76-84 (C1) range to ensure effective communication in the workplace, particularly in roles requiring advanced language skills.

Factors Affecting PTE Scores

Several factors can influence PTE scores, including test-taking strategies, preparation methods, and overall language proficiency. Understanding these factors can help test-takers optimise their performance and achieve their target scores.

Test-Taking Strategies

Effective test-taking strategies are crucial for maximising your PTE scores. These strategies include:
  • Time Management: Efficiently managing the allotted time for each section can help ensure that all questions are answered. Practice pacing yourself to avoid spending too much time on a single question.
  • Familiarity with the Exam Format: Knowing the structure of the PTE exam and the types of questions that will be asked can reduce anxiety and increase confidence. Take practice tests to get comfortable with the format.
  • Prioritising Tasks: Focus on questions that you find easier to build confidence and ensure you secure those points. Tackle more challenging questions later.

Preparation Methods

Comprehensive preparation is key to performing well in the PTE exam. Here are some effective preparation methods:

  1. Use Official PTE Preparation Materials: Utilise resources provided by the official PTE website, including practice tests, study guides, and sample questions. These materials are designed to reflect the actual test format.
  2. Enrol in PTE Preparation Courses: Consider taking a PTE preparation course to receive structured guidance and feedback. These courses often provide valuable tips and strategies for each section of the exam.
  3. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice helps reinforce your language skills. Set aside dedicated study time each day to work on different sections of the test.

Language Proficiency Levels

Your overall proficiency in English significantly affects your PTE scores. Improving your language skills can lead to better performance in all sections of the exam:

  1. Grammar and Vocabulary: A strong grasp of grammar and an extensive vocabulary are essential for both the writing and speaking sections. Regularly review grammar rules and learn new words.
  2. Listening and Reading Comprehension: Enhance your listening and reading skills by engaging with English-language media such as news articles, podcasts, and TV shows. Practice summarising what you read or hear to improve comprehension.
  3. Pronunciation and Fluency: Practise speaking English with native speakers or use language learning apps to improve your pronunciation and fluency. Recording yourself speaking and listening to the playback can help identify areas for improvement.

Tips for Optimising Performance

To achieve your target PTE scores, consider the following tips:
  1. Take Mock Tests: Simulate the exam environment by taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions. This helps build stamina and reduces test-day anxiety. 
  2. Review and Analyze: After taking practice tests, review your answers to understand your mistakes. Focus on improving your weaknesses. 
  3. Stay Updated: Keep abreast of any changes to the PTE exam format or scoring criteria by regularly checking the official PTE website. 
  4. Healthy Lifestyle: Ensure you are well-rested and healthy on the day of the exam. A good night’s sleep and proper nutrition can significantly impact your performance.
By understanding and addressing these factors, you can enhance your preparation and performance, ultimately achieving your desired PTE scores.

Understanding PTE Score Comparison with IELTS and TOEFL

To calculate the total PTE Academic score, the process begins by determining the average of the enabling skills, which include grammar, oral fluency, pronunciation, spelling, vocabulary, and written discourse. This average is then combined with the communicative skills (listening, reading, speaking, and writing). If the average includes decimal points, it is rounded to the nearest whole number.

The PTE score chart helps candidates understand their performance across different sections of the exam, from speaking and writing to reading and listening. This insight is invaluable for identifying strengths and areas for improvement.

PTE, IELTS, and TOEFL Score Comparison

When comparing the PTE with IELTS, it’s essential to note that they have different formats and scoring systems. The PTE scores range from 10 to 90, whereas IELTS scores are given in bands from 1 to 9. The following table provides a detailed comparison of PTE scores with the most recent IELTS and TOEFL scores:

PTE ScoresTOEFL ScoresIELTS BandProficiency Level
0 to 300 to 310 to 4Extremely Limited
30 to 3432 to 344.5Limited
35 to 4135 to 455Modest
42 to 4946 to 595.5Modest
50 to 5760 to 786Competent
58 to 6379 to 936.5Competent
64 to 7294 to 1017Good
73 to 77102 to 1097.5Good
78 to 82110 to 1148Very Good
83 to 86115 to 1178.5Very Good
87 to 90118 to 1209Expert

 

This comparison table allows candidates to understand how their PTE scores align with IELTS and TOEFL scores, making it easier to interpret their performance and set realistic goals for academic or professional requirements.

Understanding PTE Score Reports and Feedback

Accessing your PTE score report is straightforward. After completing the test, you will receive an email notification when your scores are available, usually within five business days. You can then log into your Pearson account to view and download your score report.

The PTE score report provides detailed feedback on your performance across various sections. It includes overall scores, communicative skills scores (listening, reading, speaking, and writing), and enabling skills scores (grammar, oral fluency, pronunciation, spelling, vocabulary, and written discourse).

Understanding this feedback is crucial for identifying your strengths and areas for improvement. For example, if your enabling skills score in pronunciation is low, it indicates a need for focused practice in that area. By analysing these details, you can develop a targeted study plan to enhance your language proficiency.

Score reports play a significant role in helping you set realistic goals, track your progress, and strategically prepare for future tests or academic endeavours, ensuring that you focus on the most critical areas to achieve your desired scores.

Wrap Up

In this guide, we have explored the key aspects of the PTE score chart and its scoring system. We began by understanding how the PTE Academic score is calculated, starting with the mean of the enabling skills (grammar, oral fluency, pronunciation, spelling, vocabulary, and written discourse). This average is then combined with the communicative skills scores (listening, reading, speaking, and writing) to form the total PTE score, rounded to the nearest whole number.

We also compared the PTE scoring system with other popular English proficiency tests, such as IELTS and TOEFL. The comparison highlighted the differences in scoring methodologies, score scales, and test formats, providing a clear picture of how PTE scores align with IELTS bands and TOEFL scores.

Understanding your PTE score report is crucial for identifying your strengths and weaknesses. The detailed feedback helps you create a targeted study plan, focusing on the areas that need improvement. This comprehensive approach ensures that you are well-prepared for the PTE exam and can achieve your desired scores.

Fateh Education offers extensive support and resources to help you succeed. With Fateh Education, you can be assured of expert guidance and a structured approach to your exam preparation.

Leverage the insights gained from this guide to effectively prepare for the PTE exam. With the right strategies and support from Fateh Education, you can achieve your goals, whether they are academic admissions, visa applications, or professional certifications. Trust in our expertise to help you succeed in your endeavours.

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PTE Score Chart 2024: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

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