Have you taken the PTE exam but aren’t sure how your PTE Score in Bands translates to IELTS? Many students face this challenge when applying to universities or meeting visa requirements.
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Understanding the PTE to IELTS score conversion can help you meet the necessary English proficiency criteria. In this blog, we’ll simplify the conversion process, provide a handy calculator, and guide you on finding what your PTE equivalent to IELTS bands. Let’s dive in!
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80+ Practice Questions for all sectionsHere is a table showcasing the important information about the PTE exam.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| PTE Score in Bands | Scores range from A1 (basic) to C2 (expert), with a score range of 10-90 |
| PTE Score Validity | 2 years from the test date |
| Test Duration | 2 hours, including all sections |
| Score Availability | Available online within 48 hours of taking the test |
What is the PTE Scoring System?
The PTE scoring system is powered by artificial intelligence, ensuring an objective evaluation of your English skills. The overall score ranges from 10 to 90, calculated based on performance across integrated tasks.
The PTE score in bands is derived from these individual skill scores and is mapped to CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) levels from A1 (beginner) to C2 (expert).
Types of Scoring in PTE
- Correct/Incorrect: Some questions are scored using a simple correct/incorrect method.
- Partial Credit: Integrated skills tasks, such as essay writing or summarising spoken text, allow for partial credit. You may receive partial credit for partially correct responses, making every point critical to achieving a higher band PTE score.
Detailed Breakdown of PTE Score Ranges
Each PTE score in bands represents different levels of language proficiency. Here is a breakdown of what each score range signifies.
- 10-29: This band indicates the fundamental use of the English language. Test takers at this level understand and use everyday phrases and simple interactions.
- 30-42: This score signifies the ability to handle familiar topics and daily exchanges but with limited expression.
- 43-58: A solid grasp of routine communication, allowing participation in conversations about familiar matters. You can express opinions but may struggle with more complex discussions.
- 59-75: Your command of the language is vital at this band. You can engage in complex conversations, although occasional errors might occur.
- 76-84: Test takers at this level are effective communicators who can easily handle professional and social situations.
- 85-90: A rare level of proficiency comparable to native speakers, allowing for smooth and accurate communication across any topic.
The PTE Band Score Chart
The PTE band score chart is the primary reference for interpreting your overall and individual section scores.
Many universities and immigration departments use the PTE score in bands to assess language proficiency, ensuring you can succeed academically and professionally.
The table below shows the PTE score range equivalent to the CEFR level and the proficiency description.
| PTE Score Range | CEFR Level | Proficiency Description |
|---|---|---|
| 10-29 | A1 | Basic phrases and expressions |
| 30-42 | A2 | Simple communication in familiar situations |
| 43-58 | B1 | Basic command of the language in everyday contexts |
| 59-75 | B2 | Fluent communication with minor errors |
| 76-84 | C1 | Effective communication across complex scenarios |
| 85-90 | C2 | Full proficiency, near-native command |
The PTE score in bands reflects these levels, enabling you to see where your abilities stand based on international standards.
PTE Test Format: A Detailed Breakdown
The PTE test format evaluates your proficiency in English across four key language skills: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. The test lasts 2 hours and consists of various integrated tasks where multiple skills are tested simultaneously.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the PTE test format, helping you understand the structure and prepare effectively.
| Section | Description | Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Speaking and Writing | Evaluates communication skills in spoken and written English through integrated tasks. | – Personal Introduction (Unscored) – Read Aloud (Reading aloud a text) – Repeat Sentence (Listening and repeating) – Describe Image (Describing an image) – Re-tell Lecture (Summarizing a lecture) – Answer Short Questions (Brief answers to questions) – Summarise Written Text (Condensing a text into one sentence) – Essay Writing (200-300 word response to a prompt) |
| Reading | Tests ability to comprehend, interpret, and analyse written English. | – Multiple-choice, Single Answer (Selecting one correct option) – Multiple-choice, Multiple Answers (Selecting multiple correct options) – Re-order Paragraphs (Arranging text boxes in logical order) – Reading: Fill in the Blanks (Choosing correct words for missing gaps) – Reading and Writing: Fill in the Blanks (Filling gaps related to reading & writing skills) |
| Listening | Assesses the ability to understand spoken English through various audio-based tasks. | – Summarise Spoken Text (Writing a 50-70 word summary) – Multiple-choice, Multiple Answers (Choosing correct answers from multiple options) – Fill in the Blanks (Completing missing words in a transcript) – Highlight the Correct Summary (Selecting the best summary of a recording) – Multiple-choice, Single Answer (Choosing one correct option) – Select Missing Word (Identifying a missing word from a beeped-out phrase) – Highlight Incorrect Words (Spotting altered words in a transcript) – Write from Dictation (Writing down a dictated sentence) |
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PTE vs IELTS Band Score Comparison
Both PTE (Pearson Test of English) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) assess English proficiency, but they use different scoring systems. Below is a comparison of their scores and equivalencies.
PTE to IELTS Score Conversion Chart
PTE and IELTS have different scoring systems, but their scores can be compared based on proficiency levels. The following table provides a general conversion to help test-takers understand their equivalent band scores.
| PTE Score | IELTS Band Score |
|---|---|
| 30 – 36 | 4.5 |
| 37 – 45 | 5 |
| 46 – 55 | 5.5 |
| 56 – 65 | 6 |
| 66 – 75 | 6.5 |
| 76 – 84 | 7 |
| 85 – 90 | 7.5 – 9.0 |
Minimum IELTS vs PTE Scores for Universities & Immigration
Most universities and immigration programs have specific score requirements for admissions and visa approvals. Let’s take a look at the following table to understand it better.
| Requirement | Minimum PTE Score | Equivalent IELTS Score |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Admission | 50 – 58 | 5.5 – 6.5 |
| Postgraduate Admission | 58 – 65 | 6.5 – 7.0 |
| PR & Work Visa (Australia/Canada) | 65+ | 7.0+ |
| Student Visa | 50 – 58 | 5.5 – 6.5 |
What is a Good PTE Score?
A good PTE score depends on the purpose of your application, whether it is for university admissions, student visas, permanent residency (PR), or work visas. Most institutions and immigration authorities set specific score requirements based on language proficiency levels.
PTE Score Required for Student Visas
Different countries have specific PTE score requirements for student visas based on the level of study. Below is a general guideline for the minimum PTE scores for university admissions and visa applications in major study-abroad destinations.
| Country | Minimum PTE Score Needed | PTE Requirement for Visa |
| USA | – Bachelor’s: 50 – 55- Master’s: 58 – 65 | Varies by university |
| Australia | – Bachelor’s: 50 – 58- Master’s: 58 – 65 | 50+ (For student visa) |
| Canada | – Bachelor’s: 50 – 60- Master’s: 60 – 65 | 50+ (For most visas) |
| UK | – Bachelor’s: 50 – 58- Master’s: 58 – 65 | 50+ (For Tier 4 Visa) |
| Germany | – Bachelor’s: 55 – 60- Master’s: 60 – 65 | Depends on institution |
| New Zealand | – Bachelor’s: 50 – 58- Master’s: 58 – 65 | 50+ (For student visa) |
PTE Score for PR & Work Visa
For individuals seeking Permanent Residency (PR) or work visas, different countries have specific PTE score requirements. The score typically varies based on visa type and immigration programs. Below is a general guideline for PTE score requirements across major countries.
| Country | Minimum PTE Score for Work | Minimum PTE Score for PR |
|---|---|---|
| USA | 50+ (For employer-sponsored visas, varies by job role) | Not officially required for PR but may be needed for employment-based green card applications |
| Australia | 50 – 65 (General work visa) | 65 – 79+ (For skilled migration & PR programs) |
| Canada | 50 – 60 (For work permits) | 60 – 70+ (For Express Entry & PR programs) |
| UK | 50 – 58 (For Skilled Worker visa) | Not officially required for PR but English proficiency may be needed for ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) |
| Germany | 55 – 60 (For work visas) | English proficiency varies based on PR category, with B1/B2 CEFR often required |
| New Zealand | 50 – 58 (For work visas) | 58+ (For residency under Skilled Migrant Category) |
These scores serve as a general benchmark. Specific visa categories may have different requirements, so applicants should check official immigration websites for the most accurate details.
Conclusion
Understanding the PTE score in bands is essential for anyone aiming to take the test in 2025. By familiarising yourself with the PTE band score chart, you can set realistic goals and enhance your chances of achieving the score you need for your plans.
At Leapscholar, we provide helpful resources to improve their English language skills or prepare for exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. We offer online courses and resources to help students achieve their goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is the PTE score in bands?
Ans. The PTE score in bands is a way to measure your English proficiency across different language skills, including speaking, reading, writing, and listening. The overall PTE score ranges from 10 to 90 and is converted into band levels from A1 (beginner) to C2 (expert) to represent your proficiency. This system provides a clear, internationally recognised indication of your language abilities.
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Q. How is the PTE score converted into bands?
Ans. The PTE score is converted into bands based on your performance across all test sections. This conversion follows the CEFR scale, which allows you to understand your level of English proficiency. The PTE score converted into bands ranges from A1 (basic) to C2 (native-like). This ensures that your score aligns with other global standards of language assessment.
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Q. What is the PTE band score chart used for?
Ans. The PTE band score chart helps you understand your overall performance by mapping your PTE score to international proficiency levels. It is useful for comparing your results with tests like IELTS and gauging the required proficiency for university admissions or visa applications. This comparison can simplify your application process by identifying exact requirements.
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Q. How do PTE marks convert into bands?
Ans. PTE marks are converted into bands by evaluating your scores across different sections—speaking, writing, reading, and listening. The PTE score converted into bands helps determine your overall proficiency, using a scale from A1 to C2, reflecting your language abilities accurately. This process ensures you receive a balanced evaluation across all language skills.
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Q. Can I compare my PTE score with IELTS using a score chart?
Ans. Yes, a PTE score chart with IELTS allows you to compare your PTE scores with IELTS bands. This chart shows the equivalent scores for both tests, helping you understand where your PTE score stands in relation to the IELTS scoring system. This can be particularly helpful if you’re considering multiple options for language tests.
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Q. What is the significance of the PTE band score chart?
Ans. The PTE band score chart is crucial for understanding your language proficiency level. It helps test-takers see where they stand based on the CEFR levels, ranging from A1 to C2, making it easier to determine your eligibility for university admissions or visa requirements. It also gives a clear indication of areas where further improvement is needed.
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Q. How does the PTE band score chart help in university admissions?
Ans. The PTE band score chart provides clarity on the minimum English proficiency required by universities. Many institutions set specific band scores, such as B1 or B2, as a benchmark for admission into undergraduate or postgraduate programs. It helps you understand the level of language skills you need to meet for successful admission.
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Q. Can PTE marks be converted into bands for all sections?
Ans. Yes, PTE marks into bands are calculated for each section—speaking, reading, writing, and listening. The scores from these sections are converted into a final band, which represents your overall proficiency on the CEFR scale. This breakdown enables you to identify strengths and weaknesses across different skills. As a result, you can focus on improving specific areas if needed.
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Q. Is there a PTE score chart with IELTS for visa applications?
Ans. Yes, many visa authorities use a PTE score chart with IELTS to compare the English proficiency of applicants. This chart helps convert PTE scores into equivalent IELTS bands, making it easier to meet the language requirements for visa applications. Having this comparison ensures you meet visa requirements based on the specific test you’ve taken. It also provides a clearer path to meeting immigration or visa criteria.
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Q. How does the PTE band score chart help with test preparation?
Ans. The PTE band score chart allows you to track your progress and set clear goals. By understanding how your PTE score converts into bands, you can focus on improving specific skills, such as speaking or writing, to reach the required proficiency level. This targeted approach helps you strategize effectively and focus on areas needing improvement. This also gives you a more structured path to achieving your desired score.
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Q. How does the PTE score convert into bands for immigration purposes?
Ans. Yes, many immigration bodies accept PTE scores, and the PTE score converted into bands helps you understand if you meet the required language proficiency for visa applications. This makes it easier to align your scores with immigration policies. It provides a clear measure to assess whether you meet the language requirements for immigration programs. Additionally, this helps you compare your score with other accepted language assessments used for immigration.
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