Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we recommend. How this works.
1. Know your target
Write down the exact scores you need, for each skill. Universities, registration bodies and Home Affairs often set a minimum per skill, not just an overall score. If you need scores for a visa, use the official Home Affairs tables.
2. Find your starting point
Take our free practice test to get a feel for the question types. For a realistic score estimate, an official Pearson scored practice test is the closest thing to the real exam.
3. Learn how each task is scored
PTE rewards specific behaviours: fluency in speaking, strict word counts in writing, careful choices where wrong answers cost marks. Read our test format guide and the guide for each task before practising heavily.
4. Practise under real conditions
- Use real timers. Our speaking recorder has them built in.
- Type your writing; don't handwrite it.
- Listen to recordings once only.
5. Decide if you need extra help
Many people prepare successfully on their own. Others save time with a structured course or a tutor, especially for speaking and writing feedback. If you're considering paid help, these are options we've checked for strong independent reviews:
E2Language
Online PTE, IELTS and OET prep courses with video lessons, live classes and mock tests.
Visit E2LanguagePreply
Book one-to-one online English tutors, including PTE specialists, lesson by lesson.
Visit PreplyBefore you pay for anything: check the refund policy and any subscription terms, and be wary of anyone promising a guaranteed score. No legitimate provider can guarantee a PTE result.
6. In the final week
- One full timed practice test early in the week, then lighter practice.
- Review your three most common mistakes.
- Read the test day checklist and confirm your booking details.
- Sleep. Tired brains lose fluency.