PTE General Exam: Test Format & How to Book
03 March 2026
Notice: The PTE General test is no longer available. This post is for informational purposes only.
If you’re considering the PTE exam, you’ll come across the two most common PTE exam types: PTE General and PTE Academic.
While everyone knows that PTE Academic is the perfect choice for studying and immigrating to English-speaking countries, PTE General can help you with real-world skills for specific purposes.
What exactly is PTE General, and how does it differ from PTE Academic? In today’s post, PTE Magic will give you the answer.
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Key Takeaways
- PTE General is a six-level assessment system designed to assess and accredit general English communication and vocabulary skills.
- Six levels in the PTE General test are set based on the CEFR levels.
- You can register for the PTE General exam online using the Edexcel Online (EOL) system.
What is the PTE general exam?
PTE General is a six-level assessment system designed to assess and accredit general English communication and vocabulary skills.
These tests are offered in partnership with Edexcel Limited, the leading awarding authority for academic and vocational credentials in the United Kingdom.
PTE General is recognized by many countries and universities worldwide. It serves as proof of the standard of English required for educational or work abroad purposes.
However, it is mostly accepted by non-English-speaking European countries.
Here is a list of nations that accept the PTE General for work or higher education purposes:
- Albania
- Colombia
- Czech Republic
- Ecuador
- Greece
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Mexico
- Poland
- Spain
- Switzerland
- UK
- Ukraine
- Estonia
You can also take PTE General for travel or personal purposes. It can help you determine your current English level and where to improve to further your language development.
What is the test format?
Six levels in the PTE General test are set based on the CEFR levels.
| Level | Time Duration | Explanation |
| Level A1 | 1 hour 15 minutes | It is suitable for beginners and assesses writing and speaking skills. |
| Level 1 | 1 hour 35 minutes | It is suitable for beginners and assesses writing and speaking skills. |
| Level 2 | 1 hour 35 minutes | It is suitable for intermediate candidates and assesses writing and speaking skills. |
| Level 3 | 2 hours | It is suitable for intermediate candidates and assesses writing and speaking skills. |
| Level 4 | 2 hours 30 minutes | It is suitable for higher education candidates and assesses writing and speaking skills. |
| Level 5 | 2 hours 55 minutes | It is suitable for higher education candidates and assesses writing and speaking skills. |
Each level has two sections: a spoken interview and a written paper. Both sections have a maximum of 100 points.
The spoken interview consists of three sections at levels A1 and 1 and four at levels 2?5. It assesses your speaking skills.
| Spoken interview | |
| Task types | Level |
| Describe picture | Levels A1, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 |
| Roleplay | |
| Discussion | Levels 2, 3, 4, 5 |
| Total: 25 points | |
The written test consists of nine sections at all levels and assesses your listening, reading, and writing.
| Written test | ||
| Skills Tested | Task types | Score |
| Listening | 3-option graphical multiple choice | 10 |
| Listening | Text, note completion | 10 |
| Listening and writing | Dictation | 5 |
| Reading | Gap-fill 3?option multiple choice | 5 |
| Reading | 3-option multiple choice | 10 |
| Reading | Open-ended question | 8 |
| Reading | Text, note completion | 7 |
| Writing | Write correspondence | 10 |
| Writing | Write text | 10 |
| Total: 75 points | ||
Note: All sections have different time durations at each level. You can check the PTE General test format in detail here.
How can you book the PTE General test?
You can register for the PTE General exam online using the Edexcel Online (EOL) system.
From EOL, you will need to:
- Select which level you want to sit for
- Fill in your information for that level.
What are the main differences between PTE academic and PTE general tests?
Here is the comparison table between PTE General and PTE Academic:
| Points of differences | PTE General | PTE Academic |
| Purpose | Study and work mostly in non-English speaking European countries | Study, work, and immigration in English-speaking countries. |
| Conducted by | Pearson Language Tests in partnership with Edexcel Limited | Pearson Language Tests |
| Exam dates | February, May, June, October, November, and December | Every month depending on the test center |
| Registration | Online via Edexcel Online system | Online via the Pearson official website |
| Exam forms | Not-computerized test | Fully computerized test |
| Exam format | It has a set of six levels (A1, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5). Each level includes two sections: a spoken interview and a written paper | It has one level only with three sections: Reading, Speaking & Writing, and Listening |
| Duration | 1.5 to 3 hours | 3 hours |
| Score Validity | Lifetime | 2 years |
Conclusion
We have put together all the information about PTE General and how it differs from PTE Academic. You can now choose the exam that best suits your preference and goals.
Whatever exam you choose, having strong English skills will always give you confidence.
Ready to study for the PTE exam? Our 100% real updated practice test bank will help you. Contact us now!
How to FINALLY Pass the PTE and Achieve Your Dreams
Stop guessing! Start using proven methods that guarantee results!
? Master Every Section: Discover INSIDER SECRETS that secure HIGH SCORES. ? Save Time & Effort: Study SMARTER with proven strategies for FAST results. ? Real Practice, Real Confidence: Practice with TEST-LIKE questions to feel FULLY PREPARED.
START YOUR PTE SUCCESS JOURNEY TODAY
|
My name is Moni, and I am a seasoned PTE teacher with over 6 years of experience. I have helped thousands of students overcome their struggles and achieve their desired scores. My passion for teaching and dedication to my student�s success drives me to continually improve my teaching methods and provide the best possible support. Join me on this journey toward PTE success!
