PTE Exam Changes from August 2025: What Indian Students Should Know

Starting August 7, 2025, the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) will be undergoing significant changes.

If you are an Indian student thinking about studying abroad, know that the structure of the test is itself changing. There will be a shift of focus on real-life situations and communication skills.

As a true guide, ImmiLaw Global is here to help you overcome the updated test structure. We will provide an overview of what's new, explain its implications for test-takers, and offer tips on navigating the new format with confidence.

New Format of PTE Exam Launching in August 2025

1. Introduction of New Tasks

The Speaking section now includes 9 tasks, up from the previous 7. To assess the test takers' listening comprehension and fluency, the following tasks are added:

• Summarize Group Discussion: Test-takers will be a part of a group discussion and have to summarize the main points within two minutes.
• Respond to a Situation: Candidates respond verbally to practical scenarios, testing everyday communication skills.

2. Minimised 2-Hour Exam Duration

• The duration of the new exam is now approximately 2 hours long, reduced from its earlier 3-hour duration, thereby reducing the stress and fatigue of the test taker.

3. Hybrid Scoring Systems- AI and Human

Speaking tasks like Describe Image, Re-tell Lecture, Summarise Group Discussion, Summarise Written Test, and Essay Writing are now reviewed by both automated systems and human expertise. AI handles the most questions, while human experts review the complex tasks for open-ended responses where real content and relevance matter. So, now genuine answers and not memorized answers will be the key focus.

4. Revised Fees For All Countries

• The new fee structure for the PTE Exam 2025 depends on the country to which you belong to. For Indian students, the revised fee is ₹18,000 (including all taxes). There is an increase from ₹17,000 in the previous year. The revised fee structure will be applicable to all main PTE exam types.

5. New Developments in the PTE Format

• Exam Format: The test still remains divided into 4 sections - Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening parts. However, now it has fewer questions due to the shortened time duration i.e., 2-Hour format. All four skills are tested across 20 question types.
• More precise Timing in Tasks: A "beep" now signals the start time for speaking in tasks like Repeat Sentence, improving clarity for test-takers.
• In-Person Test Required: Most universities and visa bodies have discontinued acceptance of PTE Academic Online; center-based testing is now needed for admissions and immigration.

6. Expanding Acceptance and Support

• Leading universities, including those in the Netherlands, MIT in the USA and Canadian nursing authorities now accept PTE Academic scores.
• New partnerships offer Indian students support for their exam registration, like housing assistance, financial advice, and logistical help for a smoother test experience.
• The "My PTE" dashboard features a Smart Prep section that offers exam preparation materials curated by Pearson. You have both free and paid options to obtain them.

An Overview of New PTE Academic Structure

What Should Indian Test Takers Know?

• Get familiar with the new question types and exam features by using official Pearson resources and the Smart Prep portal.
• Update your study strategies and adapt to revised formats. Start practising summarizing group discussions and reacting naturally to real-life scenarios.
• Take full-length mock tests to get used to the timing and build confidence.
• Be ready with the latest exam fees.
• Verify that your preferred universities or visa authorities accept PTE Academic scores.

Update Yourself and Plan Accordingly!

By constantly updating and adapting to the significant changes, Indian students can expect a smoother and valuable PTE Academic experience, paving the way for their academic and immigration journey in 2025 and beyond.

How Can ImmiLaw Global Help You?

Suppose you are planning to study in Canada, the UK, Australia, or New Zealand. In that case, competitive English scores are vital not just for university admission but also for visa approval and post-study work opportunities.

Our services include

• Choosing the proper test for you: PTE or IELTS
• Booking your PTE slot early for Fall 2025 intake
• Knowledge about Country-specific score requirements
• Updated prep strategies based on the new format

Contact us for personalized guidance and to kick-start your immigration journey.

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