PTE New Format 2025: Changes in Question Types and Scoring

The updated PTE exam pattern has 2 new types of questions in the Speaking & Writing section. These question types are “Summarize Group Discussion” and “Respond to a Situation”, with 2-3 questions each. The number of questions has also been reduced to 52-64 from the earlier 70-82, while the test duration remains the same. Apart from the exam pattern, there has also been a change in the scoring system. The “content” part of your Speaking & Writing section answers will now be scored by both humans and AI. If there is a disagreement between the AI and the human, a second human will make the final judgment.

PTE is an English Language Proficiency test taken by those who want to study, work, or move abroad. It is accepted by over 3900+ universities and colleges worldwide, as well as for visa applications to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the US, and the UK. Pearson has made some significant changes to the PTE exam pattern and scoring system, which have come into effect on August 7, 2025. Candidates looking to go abroad for studies or otherwise must be aware of these to ensure proper preparation.

The updates are important for students to understand, as they can impact how you approach preparation and the overall exam experience. Whether you're planning to take the test for the first time or retake it, knowing these updates is key to ensuring you’re fully prepared. Let's take a closer look at the major updates you need to be aware of as you prepare for the PTE in 2025.

PTE New Format 2025

The PTE exam is divided into 3 main sections: Speaking & Writing, Listening, and Reading. While the core structure of the test remains the same, Pearson has made key updates to the exam format for 2025, affecting everything from the way questions are asked to the allocation of time. Below, we’ll compare the old format with the new changes.

How Does the PTE New Format 2025 Impact Test-takers?

With the 2025 updates to the PTE exam format, it's important to understand how these changes will impact your approach to the test. Whether you're a first-time test-taker or someone already familiar with the PTE, adapting to these changes can make a significant difference in your exam performance. Here's how the updates affect students:

• With the addition of the new question types, you’ll need to practice speaking and summarizing effectively in real-life contexts, not just academic settings.
• With a reduction in the number of questions, you’ll have more time to focus on each question. However, this means every question is more important, and time management will be key.
• Human intervention in scoring ensures fairer scoring, especially for nuanced responses. Focus on making your content clear and coherent.
• With new tasks on group discussion and situations, you’ll need to practice understanding and responding to spoken English in varied, real-life situations.
• Your Essays should be well-structured, clear, and supported by strong arguments, as they will be reviewed by a human expert.
• While the time duration is the same for the exam, the new question types may require more careful pacing. Practice with timed mock tests to get comfortable with the new format and pacing.

How to Prepare for the PTE New Format 2025?

With the updates to the PTE exam in 2025, it’s crucial to adjust your preparation strategy to stay ahead. Here are some practical tips to help you prepare effectively for the new format:

• Practice New Question Types: Focus on the new tasks: “Summarize Group Discussion” and “Respond to a Situation.” Practice summarizing discussions and responding to real-life scenarios.
• Improve Speaking Fluency: As oral fluency plays a crucial role, practice speaking clearly and delivering structured responses within time limits.
• Strengthen Listening Skills: Practice understanding various accents and conversational styles to prepare for group discussions and situational responses.
• Master Time Management: With fewer questions, you’ll have more time per task. Practice pacing yourself during mock tests.
• Focus on Essay Writing: The Essay task now emphasizes structure and coherence. Practice writing clear, organized essays.
• Take Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions with timed practice tests to improve pacing and identify areas for improvement.
• Review Scoring Changes: Understand that human intervention now plays a role in scoring, especially for content. Ensure your responses are clear and structured.

The PTE New Format 2025 introduces several important changes that students must understand to succeed. By familiarizing yourself with the new question types, focusing on effective speaking and writing, and practicing with timed mock tests, you can adjust to the updated exam structure. Stay aware of the changes in scoring and time management to ensure you're well-prepared for the test. With the right preparation, you can confidently tackle the 2025 PTE and achieve your desired score.