PTE Academic exam pattern & format (2026)
Three parts, 22 task types, ~2 hours — the complete PTE Academic format, timing and scoring for 2026.
PTE Academic is a single, ~2-hour computer test in three parts, with 22 task types across 52–64 questions since the 7 August 2025 update. Here is the full pattern.
The three parts
| Part | Section | Time | Tasks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Speaking & Writing | 76–93 min | Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Describe Image, Re-tell Lecture, Answer Short Question, Respond to a Situation ★, Summarize Group Discussion ★, Summarize Written Text, Write Essay |
| 2 | Reading | 29–30 min | Multiple Choice, Re-order Paragraphs, Fill in the Blanks, R/W Fill in the Blanks |
| 3 | Listening | 30–43 min | Summarize Spoken Text, Multiple Choice, Fill in the Blanks, Highlight Correct Summary, Select Missing Word, Highlight Incorrect Words, Write From Dictation |
★ Respond to a Situation and Summarize Group Discussion are the two Speaking tasks added on 7 August 2025.
How it's scored
Scores run from 10 to 90, aligned to the CEFR, with an overall score plus separate Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing scores. Since August 2025 a hybrid AI-and-human model reviews selected tasks. Results usually arrive within about 48 hours, and are valid for two years.
Booking, test day and retakes
- Book online through Pearson; test centres and some at-home options are available.
- Bring valid ID; arrive early and warm up your voice.
- You can retake up to three times in a rolling 12 months, with at least five days between attempts.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are in PTE Academic?
Since 7 August 2025 the test has 52–64 questions across 22 task types, in three sections, taking about two hours.
What are the two new PTE tasks in 2025?
Respond to a Situation and Summarize Group Discussion, both in the Speaking section, added on 7 August 2025.
How long are PTE results valid?
Two years from the test date.
How soon do PTE results come out?
Most candidates receive the Official Score Report within about 48 hours.
Related guides
- PTE score for Australia PR & visa
- PTE vs IELTS (2026)
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