What makes PTE different from other English language Exams?

The IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL exams are the most widely used and recognized English language proficiency exams for non-native English speakers. Some features, however, make PTE different from other English language exams.

IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL are exams accepted by multiple agencies, education institutions, and private organizations at a huge scale because these exams have reliable and high-quality language assessments. In general, these exams assess the ability of an individual’s basic English language skills of, writing, speaking, reading, and listening abilities. 

Read on to figure out what makes PTE different than other language exams. This article will help you choose the right language exams at your convenience and boost your PTE scores for your desired immigration goals.

About PTE

Pearson’s Test of English, also known as PTE, is popular for being a computer-based English language proficiency test. Furthermore, the grading system used for PTE is purely Artificial Intelligence(AI). 

Also, the PTE test is made accessible and accepted in over 70 countries worldwide. Likewise, it aims to assess the Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections of your English language skill.

About IELTS

International English Language Testing System, also known widely as IELTS, is an English language assessment exam well acclaimed and accepted by numerous countries worldwide. Additionally, IELTS is famously used for filing professional assessments and recognition of English proficiency by colleges and universities.

The British Council first initiated this language test to assess different sections of English language skills, such as speaking, writing, listening, and reading.

About TOEFL

TOEFL, also known as the Test of English as a Foreign Language,  is an English language proficiency exam for non-native English speakers. It has high acceptance and is recognized by most academic institutions worldwide.

TOEFL is done for academic admissions, mostly in exchange programs and when you are offered a course in colleges and universities. Further, TOEFL language proficiency certification can be used to apply for a student visa or to multinational companies in your country or abroad.

PTE Exam Format: What sets it apart?

The PTE exam format is one of the main things that makes it different from other English language exams. Unlike traditional exams administered on paper, the PTE exam is a computer-based test that assesses the four main language skills – listening, reading, writing, and speaking – through various tasks that simulate real-life scenarios.

One of the key benefits of the computer-based format is the speed at which results can be generated. Unlike traditional exams that can take several weeks or even months to receive results, the PTE results are typically available within just a few days. 

Moreover, this can benefit students applying for academic programs or visas, which must meet tight deadlines. Also, the computer-based format allows for a more objective and accurate assessment of language skills. 

The tasks are designed to be both challenging and fair, and the scoring is done by a computer program rather than a human examiner.

6 features that make PTE different from other English language exams

Although all of the popular English language proficiency exams have their way of taking standardized tests, some features that make the PTE exams different from other English language exams are mentioned below:

1. More convenient

PTE exam is different from other English language exams because of its ease and convenience. You will not need to face an examiner or invigilator throughout your exam. This builds your confidence and settles your nerves to score better marks on your exam.

However, if you are preparing for IELTS or TOEFL, remember that invigilators and examiners will guard your exam.

2. Unbiased

In the PTE exam, there is no human intervention in any section of the exam, and it is a purely computer-based exam scored with an AI program. Furthermore, the scoring system of this exam is unbiased, and there is a strict impartial method of marking separating the PTE exam from other language proficiency exams. 

Although the PTE scoring system has one of the most unbiased and fair marking methods, you should always be aware of the common PTE mistakes and how you can avoid them. Furthermore, unlike other exams, you can easily obtain full marks with good practice.

3. Wider variety of questions and high-scoring areas

All the Language assessment exams follow the standard and specific scoring systems. PTE, however, stands out due to its distinct method of examination and scoring, making it an exam of choice for students aspiring to study abroad or even to file for professional assessments.

Although other language exams have the same criteria for evaluating your exam, PTE provides some high-scoring areas. For example, IELTS has 5 question types where each task carries one point. In contrast, in the PTE exam, you will be asked 20 questions about interrelated tasks increases your chance of scoring substantially in multiple sections. 

Like, if there is a Repeat sentence question, it carries marks for both the listening and speaking sections.

4. On-screen timer

Having a timer on the exam screen can be a dealbreaker for many. As we already know how crucial time plays in our exam, unlike other exams, the PTE exam has an on-screen timer that makes candidates appear more confident in time management. 

Also, Due to the computerized AI system PTE follows, scores are generated as soon as you finish your exam, and the publication of the result takes, at most, five business days. Additionally, your result can be sent to any college or university in any country worldwide without incurring any additional charge. 

5. Identify your strength and weakness

While preparing for the PTE exam, you will have ample time to determine your strengths and weaknesses and secure your desired score. You can develop strategies and take mock tests to strengthen your weak sections.

The PTE exam can sound tough but easier than other popular English language exams. You can ace the PTE test with full marks with the right amount of consistent practice.

6. Flexibility

Another feature that sets PTE apart from other language exams is its flexibility. PTE allows test-takers to choose from multiple test dates and times throughout the year, allowing candidates to choose the best time to take their exam based on their schedule.

Moreover, PTE allows candidates to send their scores to unlimited institutions for free, making it an affordable option for students applying to multiple schools.

Scoring Difference between IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL 

The difference in scoring systems is another factor that sets PTE apart from other English language exams such as IELTS and TOEFL. Each exam has its unique scoring system used to evaluate the test-taker’s proficiency in the English language.

In the case of IELTS, test-takers are assigned a band score between 0 and 9 for each test section. These band scores are then averaged to give an overall band score ranging from 0 to 9. Each band score corresponds to a level of English proficiency, with 9 being the highest level of proficiency.

Similarly, TOEFL also uses a scoring system that ranges from 0 to 120. The overall score is a combination of the scores from each section of the exam, with each section being scored out of 30. Test-takers are given a level of proficiency based on their overall score, with 120 being the highest level of proficiency.

In contrast, PTE uses a scoring system that is based on a scale of 10-90. Each section of the exam is scored individually, and the overall score is an average of the scores from each section. The score report also includes a detailed breakdown of the test-taker’s performance in each section, which can be useful for identifying areas for improvement.

All three exams are valid for 2 years. Moreover, the following table shows the comparison in the grading system of all three exams:

PTE Test Content: What makes it unique?

Another factor that sets the PTE exam apart from other English language exams is the content of the test itself. The PTE exam tests a wide range of language skills and abilities, from basic vocabulary and grammar to more advanced reading comprehension and communication skills.

One unique aspect of the PTE test is the speaking section, which uses a computerized system to assess pronunciation, intonation, and fluency. This is a major departure from other English language exams, which often rely on human examiners to assess speaking skills. 

From booking the PTE exam to rescheduling, technology in this test section ensures a consistent and smooth experience.

Another unique aspect of the PTE test is the range of task types used to assess different language skills. For example, the reading section includes tasks that require test-takers to match sentences, identify missing words, and summarize the text. 

In contrast, the writing section includes tasks requiring test-takers to write essays, summaries, and prompt responses. This variety of task types ensures that students are assessed across a range of language skills and abilities, giving a complete picture of their language proficiency.

Conclusion

PTE has unique and favorable features making it different from other English language Exams. Many candidates are constantly seen appealing on how PTE is easier and less exhausting than TOEFL and IELTS.

With higher precision of marking, unbiased result declaration, and better opportunities for candidates, PTE has gained popularity in numerous countries worldwide. Students highly prefer this test to apply for a student visa. Additionally, for the best PTE course materials, online classes, and mock tests, you can visit CCLHUB.

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