When it comes to pursuing studies or employment opportunities in a foreign country, an English proficiency test is essential for them. Foreign universities require applicants from those countries, where English is not their native language to submit proof of their proficiency in speaking, writing, hearing, and understanding English. There are numerous proficiency tests and PTE is one of them and it stands for Pearson Test of English.
This test has been available since 2009. This test offers two different English language tests, the PTE Academic and the PTE General. Basically, Academic PTE is for those people who want to study abroad, and who want to work in a foreign country General PTE is for them. There are various similarities and differences between them. In this blog, we will help you to know the key differences and find which one is suitable for you.
PTE Academic
The PTE Academic is created to help students get ready for studying in countries where English is the primary language. It is a fully computer-based exam and this test is divided into four parts, which are Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. You need to achieve a minimum score in each of them to get admission from those universities that you want.
PTE is a new language proficiency test so it is not familiar or acceptable in all countries and universities as well. However, It is spreading very fast. Australia and New Zealand are examples of countries that frequently request or accept the Pearson Academic Test. The PTE Academic exam is conducted at more than 200 locations throughout the year, with availability on over 360 days.
PTE General
The PTE General is intended for non-academic use. It is primarily used for job applications, visa submissions, or immigration processes. Usually, this is created for those people who are non-native English speakers to prove their language capability for professional intentions.
PTE General is not a computerized test. It is recognized by employers, government, agencies and educational institutions worldwide but it is not suitable for academic purposes. The PTE General is also suitable for individuals looking to use English for travel or personal reasons. It evaluates practical language abilities that are useful in everyday situations, such as conversations and social interactions.
Test Format and Structure
PTE Academic
There are three parts in this test. The first part is Speaking and Writing. This part aims to assess your skills in understanding and using both written and spoken English in an academic setting. It features activities like reading aloud, describing images, answering brief questions, writing essays, and summarizing written texts.
Then the second part is reading and this part tests your ability to read and understand the academic topics. This part has multiple-choice questions, reordering paragraphs and fill in the blanks type of questions.
Lastly, the third part is listening, which checks your listening and understanding of spoken academic English. Moreover, you will get some multiple-choice questions, fill in the blanks, write from dictations, summarize spoken tests etc.
| Section | Duration | Number of Tasks |
| Speaking and Writing | 54-67 minutes | 8 |
| Reading | 29-30 minutes | 5 |
| Listening | 30-43 minutes | 8 |
PTE General
The PTE exam pattern for the General Test comprises two sections, i.e. written and spoken tests that analyze the reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills of the test-taker. There are six levels of proficiency under the PTE General, i.e. Foundation level (A1), Level 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, and are linked to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
| Level | Time Duration | Explanation |
| FoundationLevel | 1 hour 15 minutes | Ideal for beginners |
| Level 1 | 1 hour 35 minutes | Ideal for beginners |
| Level 2 | 1 hour 35 minutes | Appropriate for intermediate candidates |
| Level 3 | 2 hours | Appropriate for intermediate candidates |
| Level 4 | 2 hours 30 minutes | Appropriate for higher education candidates |
| Level 5 | 2 hours 55 minutes | Appropriate for higher education candidates |
Validity and Cost
The PTE Academic exam results are valid for a period of two years from the date they are issued. This means you have to use this result within two years otherwise it will expire. On the other hand, The results of the PTE General test remain valid indefinitely, with no expiration or time limitations. It has lifetime validity. The cost for both is same, and that is 23800 BDT.
Major Differences Between Them
There are several distinctions between PTE Academic and PTE General. The differences are shown below:
| PTE Academic | PTE General |
| 3 Modules: 1. reading, 2. speaking and writing, and 3. listening | 2 modules (6 levels): a written test and a spoken test |
| Fully computerized test | Not-computerized test |
| Duration: 3 hours | Duration: 90 minutes to 3 hours |
| Conducted nearly year-round, spanning about 360 days | Held three times a year, in May, June, and December |
| Register on Pearson website | Register on Edexcel website |
| PTE Academic score validity: 2 years | PTE General score validity: lifetime |
| For students interested in studying abroad in Australia or New Zealand | Intended for students and professionals in the workforce |
| Collected for educational use | Used for travel, employment, immigration, visa applications, educational purposes, and to assess English language proficiency |
| Also approved for visa applications currently in Australia | Not approved for visa |
Which One Should You Choose?
Generally, if anyone wants to go abroad for study then PTE Academic is for them. Because PTE Academic is designed specifically for academic purposes. This exam is recognized and accepted by educational institutions worldwide.
On the contrary, The PTE General provides a thorough evaluation of overall English language proficiency. Usually, it focuses on language that we use in everyday conversations. This will help you to interact well in social, work or travel situations.
In fact, if anyone wants to go for study then PTE Academic is the right choice for them and if anyone looking for a job or traveling or daily communications then PTE General is the correct option.
Thinking to Start Your PTE Journey?
If you’re looking for the best PTE coaching in Dhaka, our expert instructors at ACE PTE are here to guide you to your desired PTE score. Choosing between PTE Academic and PTE General depends on your goals, whether it’s for academic pursuits, professional needs, or migration. Our experienced instructors help you make the right choice and support you through every step of your PTE journey.
Whether you’re aiming to improve your language skills or reach a specific score, we offer personalized courses tailored to your needs. If you’re still unsure or have any questions about PTE coaching in Dhaka, feel free to reach out to us. Give us a call at 01889-982918 or visit our centre to learn more about how we can help you succeed. We’re just a conversation away from helping you start your path to success!
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