PTE Academic Score Chart & Guide 2026: What Score You Need
PTE Academic scoring explained — the 10–90 scale, approximate conversion to IELTS, what universities and visas require, and how the score is calculated.
▶ Free College Predictor & study-abroad toolsPTE Academic Scoring Scale (10–90)
PTE Academic uses a 10–90 scale in 1-point increments, not bands. Roughly, 50 is intermediate, 65 is upper-intermediate, and 79 is advanced. You cannot score half-points. Your Overall Score is based on performance across Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, each also 10–90. The test is computer-scored and adjusts for difficulty, so raw answers vary by administration.
Section Breakdown and Interpretation
Listening assesses comprehension; Reading tests vocabulary, grammar, and understanding; Writing evaluates essays and summaries for grammar, fluency, and coherence; Speaking assesses pronunciation and oral fluency. Because PTE uses integrated tasks, one task can contribute to more than one skill score. Universities often set minimum scores per skill (e.g., Speaking 65) in addition to the overall score.
PTE to IELTS Concordance (Approximate)
Approximate equivalences: PTE 50 ≈ IELTS 5–5.5; PTE 58 ≈ IELTS 6; PTE 65 ≈ IELTS 6.5; PTE 73 ≈ IELTS 7; PTE 79 ≈ IELTS 7.5; PTE 85 ≈ IELTS 8. These are guidance ranges, not exact conversions, and depend on the test form. Confirm the exact requirement with your target university or visa authority, and check the official concordance table.
University and Visa Requirements
UK universities often require PTE 59–67 for bachelor's and 65–75 for master's. Canada typically expects 60–70 overall. Australian universities set their own minimums, typically 58–75. Many universities now list PTE alongside IELTS and TOEFL. Visa authorities set their own English requirements separately from universities. Check your target institution's official website for exact PTE minimums, as they change.
Advantages of PTE Scoring
PTE typically reports scores within about five business days, faster than IELTS. The 1-point scale allows precise differentiation, useful when programmes are competitive. Scores are sent electronically to institutions, and the test allows relatively quick rebooking for retakes. Computer scoring means your accent is not penalised as long as pronunciation is clear and consistent.
Preparing for Your PTE Target Score
Identify your target score from your university's requirement (often 65–73). Practice full-length mock tests to track progress and focus on weaker sections — Speaking and Writing are often the hardest for non-native speakers. Use authentic practice questions. Practise free PTE preparation on LandingPrep to sharpen grammar, vocabulary, and timing across all tasks.