The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) is an English language proficiency exam accepted by 99% of UK universities.
The PTE Academic exam is quite similar to the IELTS exam format. But unlike IELTS, PTE is marked on a scale of 10-90. PTE score will vary with the course and university you select.
In this blog, we’ll explore all aspects of PTE score for UK, and help you understand how it varies with the course and university you select.
Let’s dig in.
How much PTE Score is required for UK in 2023?
On average, you need a PTE score of 51-60 for undergraduate courses and 57-67 for postgraduate courses.
| Degree | Average Minimum PTE Score |
| Bachelor’s | 51-60 |
| Master’s | 57-67 |
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The UK PTE score requirement highly varies with the course you select.
Advanced-level courses such as Literature, Law, Healthcare and Psychology require a higher PTE score as they involve more profound understanding and high comprehension abilities.
Top-ranking colleges like Oxford or Cambridge usually require a score above 60 for undergraduate and 70 for postgraduate. The range of 60-70 in PTE is equivalent to 6.5-7 in IELTS and is enough to enter most UK universities.
If you get a PTE score of 50-59, you may be able to get into universities and courses with low English proficiency requirements. It’s hard to get into any advanced-level course with this score range.
A PTE score of 60-69 means you can understand complex information and produce detailed responses. Getting into most universities and courses with a PTE score in this range is easy.
A PTE score of 70-79 means you’re a natural at English. You can understand concepts easily and express yourself fluently without any trouble. There’s no stopping you with this PTE score, as all universities and courses accept it.
With a score above 70-80, you can stand out from the other applicants and boost your admission chances.
In this blog, we’ll give you complete information about PTE score for UK. Read on!
| PTE Score | Availability of Universities based on Ranking |
| 70-79 | Majority of universities, with most ranking in the top 50-100 |
| 60-69 | Mid to High ranked universities, typically ranking in the top 80-200 |
| 50-59 | Selective number of universities, mostly ranking within the top 300-800+ |
| 40-49 | A limited number of universities, typically ranking above 400 |
List of Universities Accepting PTE score in the range of 50-70
| University Name | Minimum PTE score |
| University of Manchester | 59 |
| University of Glasgow | 59 |
| University of Leeds | 62 |
| University of Nottingham | 59 |
| University of Sheffield | 51 |
| University of Southampton | 62 |
| University of Sussex | 51 |
| Durham University | 62 |
| University of Aberdeen | 59 |
| Queen Mary University of London | 58 |
These requirements change quite often, so make sure you always check with the university before you apply.
Talk to our experts to get a full list of UK universities that accept your PTE score. Book a free conversation today!
What if you do not get your Ideal PTE Score?
Don’t beat yourself up if you’ve scored less than your desired PTE score. English proficiency exams can be tense. You did your best.
Besides, getting a low score isn’t the end. Here’s what you can do to increase your chances of getting a study admit in the UK.
- Retaking the PTE exam: If you have already taken the PTE exam, you know the areas you struggle with very well. This could be a great chance to reflect on the areas you lack and prepare again. As per Pearson, you can retake the PTE exam as often as you like.
- Look at alternate universities: Find universities you can get into with your score. You can also find alternate courses that provide the same or more value about the subject you’re interested in.
- Consider alternate English proficiency tests: PTE is widely accepted in the UK. But the most common exam in the UK is IELTS. There are plenty of IELTS resources available online, along with much detailed information about the exam. IELTS pattern is also much similar to PTE, so you won’t be starting from scratch.
LeapScholar’s IELTS courses have mock tests, live and recorded classes from IELTS experts, and access to the best resources!
How to get a good PTE Score?
Preparation for the PTE Academic exam is crucial to achieving your desired score.
Several online resources can help you prepare for the exam, including practice tests, study guides, and online courses. You should also improve your English language skills, including grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
Regular practice and exposure to English language materials, such as news articles, academic papers, and podcasts, can also help improve your performance on the PTE Academic test.
The following tips can help you score well in your exam.
- There are plenty of English proficiency tests on the market. Before settling on PTE, ensure it’s the right exam for you. Read: IELTS VS PTE: Which Is The Best For You?
- Understand the pattern of the exam. Mock tests can help you get familiar with the format and help you realise your strength and weakness.
- Make enough time so you can practice all sections thoroughly.
- Practice speaking regularly. You can also watch English TV series and movies to increase your vocabulary.
- Work on building your overall language skills rather than being too focused on the skills.
Minimum PTE Score For UK Student Visas
If you are planning to study in the UK with PTE scores, make a note of the following:
You should choose PTE Academic if you plan to study degree-level or above and apply for a student route visa (formerly known as the Tier 4 General Student Visa).
Suppose you plan to study below degree level (e.g., a foundation or pathways course, or professional English course) or a degree level course somewhere that is not a higher education institution. In that case, you should choose PTE Academic UKVI. This is a UK Home Office-approved Secure English Language Test (SELT).
Here’s a quick look at the minimum PTE score requirements for studying in the UK:
| Student visa/Tier 4 General student visa | PTE Score Equivalent | PTE Test Type |
| Below degree level, e.g. pre-sessional courses | 43 or higher in all four sections of the test | PTE Academic UKVI |
| Degree level and above | 59 or higher in all four sections of the test | PTE Academic; PTE Academic UKVI** (dependent on institution visa approval status) |
The PTE Academic exam is convenient to take and has 35 test centres across India. Currently, the PTE exam fee is ₹15,900 in India.
Are you applying to universities in the UK and want to know more about PTE Academic and other requirements for admission? The UK’s rich history, elite institutions, unique curriculums and innovative approaches to higher studies have made it the top choice for international students.
LeapScholar’s experts can guide you to land the university of your dreams! Get in touch with our counsellor today and get all your queries answered for free.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is PTE accepted in UK?
Yes, 99% of Uk universities accept PTE.
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What is PTE Academic?
PTE Academic is a computer-based English language proficiency exam designed to assess the English language skills of non-native speakers. The test evaluates a candidate’s ability to use English in an academic setting, with four sections: Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening.
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What is the duration of the PTE Academic exam?
The entire test is 2 hours long, and it is designed to be completed in one sitting.
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How is PTE Academic scored?
The PTE Academic exam uses a complex computer algorithm to evaluate and score a test taker’s English language proficiency. The test is graded on a scale of 10-90, with 10 being the lowest and 90 being the highest. The grading is based on a combination of the test taker’s performance on each section of the test and their overall performance.
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What is the difference between PTE Academic and other English language tests?
PTE Academic is a computer-based test that is designed to evaluate a test taker’s English language skills in an academic setting. The test is objective, efficient, and offers quick results, with test takers receiving their scores within 5 business days. In addition, the test is available year-round and can be taken multiple times if necessary, providing greater flexibility for test takers.
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Can I retake the PTE Academic exam?
Test takers can retake the PTE Academic as often as they wish. However, there must be a gap of at least 5 calendar days between two attempts.
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Where can I take the PTE Academic test?
The PTE Academic test is administered in secure test centres across India. Test takers can visit the official PTE Academic website to find a test centre near them and schedule their test.
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What is the PTE score required for a UK student visa?
If you’re applying to a degree-level course or above, you need a PTE score of over 59. If you’re applying to a course below degree level, you need 43 or higher.
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What are some PTE 50 score accepted universities in UK for masters?
The University of Essex, Cardiff University, and Swansea University accept PTE score of 50 and above.
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Is there a passing or failing score in the PTE exam?
There is no “pass” or “fail” in PTE. Scores are used to determine your English language proficiency level. If you score between 50-63, it is understood that you have a good understanding of the language.
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Does a higher PTE score improve my chances of admission?
A good score on any English proficiency test improves your chances of getting an admit, though it does not guarantee it.
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What are the different sections of the PTE exam?
The PTE exam consists of three main sections: Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening.
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How long is a PTE score valid for studying in the UK?
PTE scores are generally valid for two years from the test date.
