How Does PTE Automated Scoring Work: A Thorough Guide

How does the PTE automated scoring system work? It’s essential to answer this question because it will help you understand the test’s function and boost your performance on exam day.

This blog post by PTE Magic covers everything you need to know regarding this topic, including the benefits of PTE’s scoring system, how Pearson calculates your score, and the scoring system of the most well-known PTE tests.

Let’s get started!

Key Takeaways

• Research shows that an AI-powered system is more logical and fairer than humans
• Creating an effective algorithm to assess the test is difficult and takes time.
• Pearson trained its scoring system based on hundreds of thousands of answers from real test-takers.

Related:

• PTE tips and tricks
• PTE online training course

Why Automated Scoring Is Better

The benefits of machine scoring are much better than people might expect. Pearson trained its scoring system based on hundreds of thousands of answers from real test-takers. This creates clever algorithms that make the system more accurate, unbiased, and fast.

Let’s define these benefits:

• Unbiased: Pearson tests are computer-based and can be taken in test centres worldwide. You don’t have to encounter face-to-face evaluation from human examiners, as there will only be you and the screen.
• One session only: PTE is a hassle-free session that lasts around two hours. Test-takers don’t have to go back and forth to schedule several sessions for a follow-up test.
• Speedy: Automated scoring means a faster process. This is especially beneficial for people who need to apply to multiple institutions or have busy schedules. You can send your results quickly without extra cost.

How Does PTE Automated Scoring Work?

Think of automated scoring as an expert examiner; however, this examiner can handle the test globally without feeling tired.

Creating an effective algorithm to assess the test is difficult and takes time. According to Pearson, they used over 678,000 examiner-marked responses in 2020 to finalise their scoring system. This means that as years go by, more data is added to make their automated scoring smarter.

Test-takers’ answers are put against millions of previous responses. This means your test answers will also stay among hundreds of examiners’ evaluations.

PTE Tests’ Scoring Systems

Let’s break down the main PTE test scoring system below:

• PTE Academic: Test-takers will encounter 20 question types that evaluate their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. The scoring is based on the test’s level of difficulty. Each question’s mark contributes to your final score ranging from 10 – 90.
• PTE Core: This test is mainly similar to the PTE Academic; however, it has one less question type, with 19 tasks in total. The tasks in the PTE Core assess the same skills, use the same grading range, and have the same focus compared to the PTE Academic. The score is also on a 10 – 90 scale.
• PTE Home: This PTE test is the most minimal type. It only has speaking and listening sections. There are no scores or decimals in this test. Test-takers only receive a straightforward pass or fail result.

Although each version has different traits, their goals remain the same: proving test-takers’ English proficiency skills so they can achieve their international dream more easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Access And Share Your PTE Score Report?

Accessing your PTE score is easy. Once your results are ready, you’ll get a notification email.  You just need to log in to your myPTE account to see your personalised Score Report.

It’s even easier to share your report. You don’t need any stamps or requests. Test-takers can send their PTE reports to any institution they choose without any cost.

What Are The New PTE Score Changes?

Two recent updates on the PTE score report are the new online skills profile and personalised recommendations.

Aside from their score, PTE test-takers now can see detailed feedback on their enabling skills which replaced the old skills profile. On the other hand, the personalised recommendations provide advice based on the Global Scale of English learning purposes.

Why Does Pearson Use Automated Scoring Systems?

Research shows that an AI-powered system is more logical and fairer than humans. Unlike human examiners who might let their biases affect the scoring process, AI keeps it fairer.

Plus, automated scoring is more efficient because it reduces the work for humans. With this, test-takers can expect a consistent and fair score wherever and whenever they take the test.

How Long Does It Take To Get Your PTE Scores?

Test-takers can get their PTE results within five business days at most, but many candidates reported that they often receive their scores earlier.

As mentioned above, you’ll receive an email notification once your results are ready.

Wrap Up

So, how does the PTE automated scoring system work? We hope you’ve gained a deeper insight after reading our blog.

PTE Magic believes that the benefits of automated scoring outweigh any drawbacks it might have. Therefore, this reliable and fast test is the ideal option for international dream goals.

Keep practicing, and best of luck!

Last updated on 09/01/2025