PTE Academic Eligibility 2023 | Check Minimum Age Limit, Qualification & Score

PTE Academic Eligibility Criteria 2023

There are no specific eligibility criteria for PTE Academic as defined by Pearson VUE-the conducting body of the test. However, the test takers or the applicants will be required to provide information like age, grades, and parental consent if the candidate is below 18 years of age.

A PTE eligibility criterion is different from the eligibility criterion of an educational institution to which you are hoping to seek admission. Only clearing PTE will not fetch you admission there, so carefully read the institutions' admission eligibility criteria separately.

Some of the top institutes that accept PTE scorecards to analyze students' English language skills are Oxford University, Birmingham University, Leeds University, University of New Haven, Manchester University, the University of Glasgow, Hertfordshire University, University of Illinois, Chicago, Arizona State University, Colorado State University, Aston University, George Mason University, Pearson College London, London School of Business, Mcmaster University etc.

Detailed PTE Academic Eligibility Criteria

Your overall level of English language skills is evaluated by the Pearson Language Test (Academic). The first computer-based English language exam of its type analyses your speaking, reading, writing, and listening abilities to make sure you can study abroad. The PTE test uses artificial intelligence (AI) technology to eliminate human bias while offering quick and practical testing options. The PTE Academic test was initially introduced by Pearson Inc. in 2009 as the result of an extensive study effort overseen by the top language assessment professionals in the world. This English language test is broadly accepted by colleges and institutions all around the world. Students from 180 different countries and 115 different languages take the exam.

Mentioned below are all the eligibility criteria that one needs to fulfil to be able to take the test:

Nationality for PTE Academic Eligibility

Students from various countries may take the PTE Academic test, but they must abide by the same set of regulations. Nevertheless, as stated on the PTE official website, candidates are only permitted to take the exam if they possess a valid, current, and readable identity verification document (usually a passport).

Education Qualification for PTE Academic Eligibility

The PTE Academic Board has not established any PTE Academic eligibility requirements for academic credentials. To take the exam, the sole requirement is that you should speak English well.

Number of Attempts for PTE Academic

According to the norms of Pearson VUE, candidates can take the test as many times as they want. There is no limit to the number of attempts. However, one must wait until they have received their scores from one test before booking another. 

The policy for retaking the PTE Academic is as follows:

• One can retake the test as soon as the results from the last test are available.

• One may book a test date five days after the previous attempt.

• The test will be reattempted as many times as the candidate wishes.

• One may book only one test at a time.

• New appointments can be made up to six months in advance.

Age Limit to Appear for PTE Academic

The candidate must be not less than 16 years old and candidates below 18 years of age are required to submit a parental consent form signed by either parents or guardians before taking the test. The consent form is available on the official website of the PTE Academic.

Education Qualification to Appear for PTE Academic

There are no specific educational qualification criteria for candidates who want to take PTE Academic. However, one must have a good command of the English language to attempt the PTE test. The language skills will help the students to score their desired marks for their admission abroad. The students who have attained at least 16 years of age are eligible for this examination.

Identification and Biometric Data Rules for the PTE Academic

Pearson has specified a few identification documents and biometric data requirements for test-takers, as mentioned below:

• All candidates should provide a valid, non-expired passport to take the PTE Academic test.

• The name on the passport must match the name used when booking the test. In cases where the names do not match, the candidate will not be allowed to take the test and will also lose their test fee.

• In case a candidate does not have a passport due to reasons like an ongoing visa application, they can request it back to present on test day.

• One must show alternative identification documents based on their nationality. 

• PTE Academic test centers will use CCTV to monitor infringements.

• The candidate's photograph, scan of their palm vein pattern and a spoken personal introduction will be recorded on the day of the test.

PTE Academic for Candidates with Special Requirements

Those with special needs or requirements are eligible for test accommodations offered by Pearson. The following accommodations are available:

• Wheelchair access

• Separate room

• Adjustable monitor brightness

• Extra 10-minute break

• Additional equipment such as a lamp, magnifying glass, etc.

• Extra time (25%) - in the UK only

To avail of these accommodations, one must meet the following criteria:

• Provide medical evidence such as a letter or certificate from a licensed medical practitioner, written if the candidate is aged 12 or older.

• The letter should show that the candidate has a disability having a substantial and long-term adverse effect that requires an extra accommodation. 

PTE Academic Registration

Here's how you can register for the PTE Academic exam:

Step 1: Register an Account and Choose PTE Academic

Make an account on the official PTE Exam website at https://in.pearson.com and select PTE Academic. Within 48 hours, the account will be enabled.

Step 2: Choose your Local Test Centre and Reserve your Seat

Go through the list of test centres to find one near you. To reserve your seat, choose your chosen exam day and time.

Step 3: Pay the Registration Fees

Pay the PTE Academic registration fee to confirm your booking. The PTE exam fee is required of all PTE Academic test takers. Indian students taking the test must pay a fee of INR 13,300. This fee is only valid if you reserve your spot at least 14 days in advance.

• Optional Fees: In addition to the usual registration costs, there are additional fees that not every applicant may be required to pay. They include fines for being late, delaying exams, and cancelling classes.

• Fees for Late Registration: Candidates may reserve their seats through PTE up to 48 hours in advance. You would have to pay an extra late booking charge of INR 695 if you want to choose this option, though.

• Rescheduling Fees: If you seek a change in your exam dates at least 14 calendar days in advance, you will not be charged any additional fees. You must pay an extra 50% of the initial test price if you wish to reschedule your appointment within 7-14 days before the exam. Nevertheless, if you seek a reschedule less than seven days before the test date, you will not be entitled to a refund.

• Cancellation Fees: If you decide not to take your PTE Academic exam, you can cancel your appointment and receive a refund. You must submit your cancellation request using the PTE's official website. To be eligible for a full refund on the PTE exam price, you must cancel at least 14 days before your test date. If you cancel your appointment between 7-14 days before the exam window, you will be eligible for a 50% refund on your PTE exam fee. Nevertheless, you will not be entitled to a refund if you cancel the exam fewer than 7 days before the exam.