What each test is for
PTE Academic is designed for academic settings, such as applying to study at a university, and its tasks use academic topics and language. PTE Core is a general English test, with tasks set in everyday and workplace situations.
Which one you need is decided by whoever asks for your score. Requirements change, so always check the current rules of the university, employer or government body you are applying to.
Which tasks differ
| Writing | Academic: Write Essay. Core: Write Email. |
|---|---|
| Speaking | Academic only: Re-tell Lecture and Summarize Group Discussion. |
| Both | Every other task, including all Reading and Listening tasks, appears in both tests. |
What stays the same
Both tests keep the same three parts (Speaking and Writing, Reading, Listening), the same kind of computer-based tasks and the same 10–90 score scale. Most preparation carries over: fluency, pronunciation, reading speed and careful listening matter in both.
See the exam format for every task in each section, and the score guide for how the scale works.
FAQ
Both use the same three-part format and the same 10–90 scale. PTE Core has Write Email instead of Write Essay and does not include Re-tell Lecture or Summarize Group Discussion. PTE Academic is designed for academic settings, and PTE Core is a general English test.
PTE Practice is an independent practice platform and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to Pearson. Our scores are a calibrated emulation, not official PTE scores.