Starting 7 August 2025, Pearson is introducing enhancements to PTE Academic to better reflect real-world communication and help test takers demonstrate their language skills with confidence.
Temporary Closure
PTE testing is temporarily closed worldwide to prepare for the August 2025 update. Existing bookings remain valid, and test takers can reschedule if needed. This brief pause is designed to ensure a smooth transition to the updated format. Testing will resume once the new format is officially launched.
What’s Changing?
Two new Speaking question types will be introduced:
- Respond to a Situation – Practice how you’d respond in realistic scenarios.
- Summarise Group Discussion – Show how well you can understand and summarise ideas from multiple people.
As a result, PTE Academic will be slightly longer, with a new maximum duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Pearson will release new preparation materials, along with webinars and videos to help agents and students adjust confidently.
What’s Staying the Same?
Despite the new enhancements, the core features of PTE remain the same:
- Trusted 3-part format (Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening)
- 100% computer-based, AI-scored with added human oversight
- Results in 48 hours (often sooner)
- Still valid for all Australian visas, universities, and professional assessments
- Accepted in 3,500+ institutions worldwide, including for visas to New Zealand, Canada, the UK, and more.
The new PTE Academic enhancements aim to better assess your communication skills—helping immigration officers and institutions trust your ability to thrive in English-speaking environments.
And the best part? There’s no change to score requirements, so your current preparation still counts. Plus, you’ll benefit from newly released resources designed to support your success.
Planning to apply for a 186 Permanent Employer Sponsored Visa?
These changes are especially relevant for visa applicants, including those pursuing the 186 Permanent Employer Sponsored Visa.
If you’re planning to apply, it’s essential to understand the English language requirements. Most applicants must provide valid English test results—and here’s a key tip: results are valid for up to 3 years.
No need to wait! Preparing early can help avoid delays with your visa application.
For those on a 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa working toward permanent residency, it’s a smart time to check your eligibility and get started in preparing for your English test.
Our team is committed to supporting you throughout your journey—from test preparation to personalised visa assistance.
Talk to a migration agent if you are unsure about your visa application. Our registered migration agents can also be found in the Department of Home Affairs Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority.
Send us a message for a free quote or call +61 8 9463 6624
The information provided is for general use only and should NOT be taken as Migration Advice. For information about your circumstances, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Milestone Migration for immigration assistance.
