Planning to study abroad or apply for a visa? If you’re in Sri Lanka and need to prove your English proficiency, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) is one of the most trusted options available today. With its fast results, fair scoring, and international recognition, it has become a go-to exam for students and professionals alike. This guide will walk you through where you can take the PTE in Sri Lanka, how much it costs, what programs accept it, and what you should expect during the process.
Where Can You Take the PTE Exam in Sri Lanka?
As of now, there are four certified PTE test centers in Sri Lanka. These centers are equipped with the required technology to offer a smooth, secure, and fully computer-based testing experience.
Here’s a breakdown of the locations:
1. Colombo
There are multiple test centers in Colombo under Knowledge Merchandising Pvt Ltd, located at:
- Unity Plaza, 4th Floor, Galle Road, Colombo 00400
- The Landmark Building, 2nd Floor, 385 Galle Road, Colombo 00300
- S. De S Jayasinghe Mawatha, Dammika Motors Building, Kalubowila, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Colombo 10350
2. Galle
- Knowledge Merchandising Pvt Ltd, Keells Building, Colombo Road, Kaluwella, Galle 80000
3. Kandy
- ICBT Kandy, 363–365 D S Senanayake Street, Kandy 20000
All these centers follow Pearson’s global testing standards and offer PTE Academic and UKVI versions.
Programs That Accept PTE in Sri Lanka
If you’re applying to Edith Cowan University’s (ECU) Sri Lanka campus or other institutions abroad,
PTE Academic is widely accepted across a range of academic levels:
- Doctoral (PhD)
- Postgraduate / Graduate
- Undergraduate
- Associate Degrees
- Diploma Programs
- Certificate Programs
- Non-Award (short-term or foundation) programs
Whether you’re aiming for a full degree or a short-term course, PTE can be your ticket in.
Are you ready to test your skills?
How Much Does the PTE Exam Cost in Sri Lanka?
Here’s a quick look at the test fees (in USD):
| Test Type | Fee |
| PTE Academic | $203 USD |
| PTE Core | $203 USD |
| PTE Academic UKVI | $203 USD |
| PTE Home A1 / A2 / B1 | $170 USD |
Note: Fees are listed in USD, so check the current exchange rate to get the amount in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR). Additional charges may apply for late booking or rescheduling.
How to Begin the Registration Process
Booking your PTE test in Sri Lanka is easy and completely online. Here’s a brief overview of how you can get started:
Step 1: Go to the Official PTE Website: Visit www.pearsonpte.com, the official platform for test booking.
Step 2: Sign Up and Create an Account: Register using your legal name, email address, and a valid ID, typically your passport. This is the ID you’ll need on test day.
Step 3: Choose Your Test Type and Country: Select PTE Academic or UKVI/Core and choose Sri Lanka as your test location. A list of nearby test centers and dates will appear.
Step 4: Pick a Date & Time: Check available slots at your preferred test center and lock in the one that fits your schedule.
Step 5: Make the Payment: Pay online using a credit or debit card. Once you confirm payment, your test slot is officially booked.
Step 6: Receive a Confirmation Email: You’ll get an email with your test center location, exam timing, and further instructions. Print it or save it on your phone.
Advantages of Choosing PTE in Sri Lanka
Why are more students and professionals opting for the PTE? Here are a few standout reasons:
- Rapid Score Delivery: Results typically arrive within 48 hours, much faster than many other English tests.
- Flexible Test Scheduling: With multiple centers and frequent test dates, you can choose a time that works best for you.
- Completely Computer-Based: No human examiner during the speaking section, just you and the microphone, making the test feel more private and less stressful.
- Unbiased Scoring: Since the exam is AI-evaluated, there’s no risk of human bias. Everyone is judged by the same standard.
- Global Acceptance: Accepted in Australia, the UK, New Zealand, and Canada, as well as at top universities worldwide, including ECU’s Sri Lanka campus.
Are you ready to test your skills?
What to Keep in Mind Before Test Day
Being well-prepared can make a big difference. Here are some practical tips for first-time test- takers:
- Bring your original passport, no copies or expired IDs allowed
- Arrive early, at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time.
- Practice in advance, especially with speaking into a microphone and typing essays
- Avoid last-minute booking, test slots can fill up quickly.
ECU Sri Lanka Campus: Accepts PTE Academic
For students interested in staying close to home, Edith Cowan University’s Sri Lanka campus in Rajagiriya accepts PTE Academic scores for a wide range of academic levels.
Location: No. 288, Sri Jayawardenapura Mawatha, Rajagiriya, Sri Lanka
With globally recognized programs and the opportunity to transfer to ECU in Australia, this campus is an excellent option for Sri Lankan students.
Whether you’re applying to a local international university or heading overseas, the PTE Academic exam is a trusted, convenient, and fair way to prove your English skills. With four test centers across Colombo, Galle, and Kandy, flexible scheduling, and fast results, taking the PTE in Sri Lanka has never been easier.
