If you’re planning to study or work in the United Kingdom, you’ve likely come across the PTE Academic UKVI test as part of your visa application process. This article covers everything you need to know about this English language proficiency test, what it is, who it’s for, how it works, score requirements, and tips to help you succeed.

What is PTE Academic UKVI?

The PTE Academic UKVI is a Secure English Language Test (SELT) approved by the UK Home Office. It is designed to assess the English skills of people applying for UK visas, including student and work visas. The test is identical in format and content to the regular PTE Academic exam but includes a Unique Reference Number (URN) on your score report, which is necessary for UK visa applications.

It evaluates the four essential English skills:

• Speaking
• Listening
• Reading
• Writing

The test is computer-based, lasts about 2 hours, and you receive your results within 2 business days.

Who Needs to Take PTE Academic UKVI?

• Students applying for a Student Route visa (formerly Tier 4):

• For courses below degree level, such as foundation or pathway courses, or at institutions that are not Higher Education Institutions, PTE Academic UKVI is required.

• For degree-level and above studies at higher education institutions, the regular PTE Academic test is generally accepted, but check with your institution to be sure.

Work visa applicants:
Suitable for visa types like Skilled Worker, Start-up, Innovator, and Minister of Religion visas.

Test Format
The test contains three main sections:

• Speaking & Writing: Tests communication skills, vocabulary, grammar, and ability to express ideas clearly for 54-67 minutes.

• Reading: Assesses comprehension of written English documents for 29-30 minutes.

• Listening: Measures understanding of spoken English through audio clips (30-43 minutes).

The test uses a mix of 20 question types that simulate real-life situations in academic and workplace environments.

Score Requirements for PTE Academic UKVI

The required minimum score depends on your visa type and study level:

For Student Visas

For Work Visas

Benefits of Taking PTE Academic UKVI

• Widely accepted: Approved by UK Visas and Immigration and many educational institutions.

• Convenient: Online booking, multiple test centers worldwide, flexible scheduling.

• Fast results: Typically available within 5 business days, speeding up visa applications.

• Fair and accurate: Combines AI scoring with human expertise to reduce bias.

• Comprehensive assessment: Tests all four language skills essential for living, studying, or working in the UK.
• Practical English: Questions relate to everyday academic and professional scenarios.

Registration and Test Day Tips

• Register on the official Pearson PTE website.

• The exam fee is INR 18,000

• Bring a valid ID, such as a passport.

• If you’re 16-18 years old, you’ll need parental consent.

• Phones and electronic devices are not allowed in the test room.

• Familiarize yourself with the test format and practice with mock tests of PTE to improve confidence and performance.

How to Prepare for PTE Academic UKVI

• Understand the test format: Know what to expect in each section to reduce confusion on test day.

• Take mock tests: Practice with sample questions to get used to timing and question types.

• Build vocabulary and grammar skills, especially for the speaking and writing sections.

• Practice speaking naturally: Avoid memorized templates; focus on expressing ideas clearly and logically.

• Improve critical thinking: Structure your answers coherently and logically for better scores.

• Stay patient and persistent: Consistent practice is key to success.