PTE Core vs PTE Academic: What Are The Differences?

Many people are confused about the features of PTE Core vs PTE Academic. 

PTE (Pearson Test of English) provides trusted English language tests worldwide. Students and individuals who want to migrate to Australia, Canada, the USA, the UK, and other top countries can use the PTE test to measure their English proficiency.

Many universities, colleges, and governments worldwide accept PTE tests. Depending on your purpose and destination, you can choose between PTE Core and PTE Academic.

Read this blog by PTE Magic to find out which test suits you best.

Key Takeaways

• PTE Core matches up with the CLB level, while PTE Academic assesses higher-level English abilities for a more professional approach.
• You should use suitable practice materials for each test for the best results.
• While Pearson resources are helpful, other study materials and courses, such as PTE Magic, are also excellent.

Related:

• PTE Core preparation tips
• PTE Core cost
• PTE Core booking
• PTE Core question bank

Getting to know PTE Core and PTE Academic

What is PTE Core?

Pearson designs the PTE Core to test general English proficiency. One exam can test your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The exam is based on a computer-based format, which can eliminate the risk of bias compared to other human-examiner exams.

You can find daily life and workplace scenarios from the test content, as well as compiling materials such as videos and podcasts. Accordingly, PTE Core is suitable for people who must prove their English ability in everyday settings. Pearson designed the PTE Core to test general English proficiency. One exam can test your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The exam is computer-based.

Additionally, the Canadian government (IRCC) accepts this test for all types of work and migration visas. If you want to follow your Canadian dream, PTE Core is the right test because it’s approved for economic visas, especially for SDS (Study Direct Stream) and Non-SDS visas. This test brings huge opportunities and wider recognition for your Canadian future.

What is PTE Academic?

On the other hand, the PTE Academic tests aim at academic English proficiency. The test’s content focuses more on academic contexts, which are related to study areas. Test-takers can find materials such as lectures and interviews in the test. Hence, PTE Academic is ideal for people who want to concentrate on proving their English in professional environments.

Accordingly, PTE Academic is a popular choice for students aiming for top universities in English-speaking countries. Many institutions in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK recognise and accept the test for all visa categories.  

PTE Academic is a great option for those who want to study abroad or obtain a professional license. Moreover, universities and institutions worldwide recognise this test for registration purposes.

Similar to PTE Core, PTE Academic is fair to introverts, as the computer scoring system more accurately reflects their skills. 

PTE Core vs PTE Academic: What is the difference?

Test Format

As mentioned, the PTE Core test evaluates your general English skills. Pearson structures this test into three main parts: Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening. Each part tests different aspects of English, assessing the test taker’s skills thoroughly.

On the other hand, the PTE Academic test focuses on English skills in an academic setting. Like the PTE Core, it has three main parts; however, the timing for speaking and writing skills is different.

While PTE Core’s speaking and writing duration is only around 50 minutes, PTE Academic takes 54-67 minutes for this part. The listening and reading timings are the same for both tests.

PTE Core is more general, whereas PTE Academic targets academic English. The test that is suitable for you depends on your goals and your institution’s requirements.

Test Fees

The PTE Core’s exam fee in Australia is currently AUD $445. The PTE Core cost varies in different regions. There are several factors that affect the cost fee among regions, specifically due to exchange rates, and local economic conditions. Additionally, some areas require a 5% to 24% tax.

Additionally, the standard fee for the PTE Academic in Australia is slightly different at AUD $410. Like PTE Core, PTE Academic fee differs depending on the country where you take the test. Local exchange rates, taxes, and other factors can also affect these fees. We suggest checking the pricing before you plan to take the test.

You can use debit or credit cards to pay for both tests. Furthermore, the two tests have the same refund policies, which will apply if you cancel within specific durations before your test.

Test Booking

The booking process for both tests has some similar steps but also has differences. Below are the specific differences:

• Create an account: PTE Academic requires test-takers to have their myPTE account, while PTE Core doesn’t mention this step specifically.
• Complete profile: Candidates must provide personal details that match with their passport or ID information, while PTE Core focuses more on availability and fast booking.
• Website interface: PTE Academic test-takers will see a detailed page showing options for selecting test centres and test dates. In contrast, the PTE Core interface offers a more straightforward action through the “Find an Appointment” page.

Scoring System

Both PTE Core and PTE Academic use computer-based scoring systems. These tests range from 10 to 90 points on the Global Scale of English to evaluate your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. 

However, their scoring systems are not similar. While PTE Core matches the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level, PTE Academic assesses a test-taker’s English abilities at higher levels for a more professional approach and purpose.

Target Candidates

The PTE Core test checks your general English skills. The Canadian Government (IRCC) approves the work, migration, and permanent residency test. The PTE Core exam fee in Australia is currently AUD $445. However, the cost varies in different regions. Several factors affect the cost fee among regions, specifically exchange rates. PTE Core is ideal for those aiming for CLB 7 (lower intermediate), CLB 8 (intermediate), or CLB 9 (upper intermediate).

In contrast, PTE Academic is for those wanting to study or live in English-speaking countries. The Australian, New Zealand, and UK governments approve this test for work and migration purposes. PTE Academic is suitable for people planning to pursue higher education or migrate to any of these English-speaking countries.

Worldwide Recognition

As you might know, the PTE Academic is well-known among institutions worldwide. Over 300 universities accept its scores, making it ideal for students who plan to take this test. Moreover, if you want to migrate to Australia or New Zealand, the PTE Academic is your go-to test.

Meanwhile, the Canadian government (IRCC) recognises the PTE Core test for economic visas or permanent residence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age requirement for PTE Core?

According to Pearson, 16 and above can attend the PTE Core tests. 

Is it possible to use PTE Academic practice materials for PTE Core?

As mentioned above, their formats and target candidates differ. PTE Academic and PTE Core test English proficiency. Therefore, PTE Academic practice materials may not be ideal for PTE Core test-takers. 

PTE Magic suggests using suitable practice materials for each test to get the best results.

The Bottom Line

With all the information above, PTE Magic hopes you can better understand the decision on PTE Core vs. PTE Academic. If unsure, check out our other blogs for more detailed information on each test!

Last updated on 23/07/2024