Education blog by Pearson India

Do interviews make you nervous? You feel under the spotlight. Every answer is important – and it’s even scarier when something big is at stake, like a place at your dream university.

But college interviews really don’t have to be nerve-wracking!

First, remember that not every UK university or subject will ask you to do an admissions interview. Only some universities, like the University of Oxford, Imperial College London and University College London always interview their applicants.

For others, it will depend on the course you are taking. Dentistry, teaching, social work and medicine, tend to feature admissions interviews, for example.

In this guide, we’ll share some interview tips for freshers, so you’ll feel fully prepared by the day of your university interview. You’ll soon be able to leave your nerves behind and walk into the interview room with confidence.

1. Take care of the practical preparation

If you’re attending an in-person interview, research how to travel there and make sure you have your ticket organised. It might even be worth doing a trial run a few days before. This will  just to make sure you know exactly where you’re going.

University campuses can be confusing, and departments can be spread out over different buildings. So, make sure you know the exact street address, floor and office number where your university interview is being held.

What if you are doing an online university interview? Well, the standard Zoom interview tips apply! Make sure that your laptop is connected to charge, that your microphone is working properly, that you have a good Wi-Fi signal and a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted. You might also want to set up a neutral virtual background, if you think your surroundings look unprofessional. That way, you won’t get distracted during the interview and you’ll be able to do your best to answer the student interview questions you’ll be asked.

It’s also a good idea to do a bit of research into the academics who will be interviewing you. You don’t have to read all their published works, but showing that you are at least familiar with their research will create a good impression. It will tell them that you have a genuine interest in the subject and in their work.

On that note, it’s important to dress smartly. You don’t need to wear a suit, but wearing something smart like a shirt or a blouse shows that you are taking the interview seriously and that you want to give the interview panel a good impression.

2. Prepare some relevant student interview questions and answers

Preparation is key when it comes to how to impress in an interview. That being said, it’s not a good idea to learn answers off by heart. Even if the exact question you have prepared for comes up, you’ll be so focused on trying to remember your answer that your answer will seem stilted. It’s better to make notes about the things you’d like to talk about, and then your answers will flow more naturally, and you’ll be able to convey your enthusiasm and excitement.

So, what are some common student interview questions that you might be asked? Let’s take a look:

• Tell us about yourself.
• Why do you want to study at this university?
• Why have you applied to study this particular course?
• What are your academic strengths and weaknesses?
• Tell us about someone you admire.
• What would you like to be doing ten years from now?
• What are you reading at the moment?
• What do you like doing in your free time?
• What will you contribute to our institution?

When you’re preparing, it’s important to remember there are no right or wrong answers. The interviewers want to get to know you, so try to give full, detailed answers to the questions. The final question you are likely to be asked is:

• Do you have any questions for us?

It’s really important to prepare some thoughtful questions for your student interview panel in response. This is where your research can come in handy! You can ask the panel about their work and how it informs the course, or any questions you have about the university.

A well-informed question shows the panel that you are well-prepared and you’ve done your research. Again, this will create a good impression.

And if there is a question you don’t understand, don’t panic! Just ask the interviewer to repeat the question, or ask for clarification. Likewise, if you make a mistake when you’re speaking, try not to worry or get embarrassed. Everyone makes mistakes sometimes - even native English speakers!

3. Read over your personal statement just before the interview

Your personal statement is what got you the interview, and it’s likely to set the agenda for the conversation. So, it’s a good idea to read it over before your interview as part of your interview preparation, and remind yourself of the talking points.

Your interviewers will refer to the things that you said in your personal statement when they are asking you questions, so it’s worth refreshing your memory - after all, you probably wrote it a few months ago.

Rereading your personal statement will also help you feel more confident. It will remind you of everything you’ve achieved so far. Seeing your qualifications, talents and attributes written down in black and white can have a powerful effect. It will help you to shake off any lingering imposter syndrome and you’ll go into the interview feeling that you deserve to be there.

Get tips on how to write a great personal statement for your UCAS application.

4. Do a power pose

Research has found that power posing - standing in an open, expansive stance for two minutes - can change your body chemistry and make you feel more confident. In a job interview experiment, researchers found that people who did a two minute power pose before the interview projected more confidence, seemed less flustered, and were more dynamic and enthusiastic when speaking. As a result, the interviewers scored their performance higher than people who didn’t do the power pose.

So even if you’re doing an interview over Zoom, it’s worth doing a power pose beforehand. Just stand with your legs wide apart and your arms held up and out in a wide, expansive pose. The idea is to take up as much space as possible. Hold this pose for two minutes - and you’ll be ready to impress!

Learn more

If you need to prove your level of English as part of the UCAS application process, PTE Academic can help you. You’ll typically receive your score in typically just 48 hours, and PTE Academic is accepted by the UK Home Office for student visas, as well as by 99% of universities in the UK.

Learn more about how PTE Academic can help you achieve your dream of living and studying in the United Kingdom.

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Deciding to study in the UK is a big step. It’s only natural to be nervous when you move to a country in which the food, language, culture and weather are completely different to what you’re used to. But once you have settled into your new situation, studying in the UK will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.

So how can you conquer your fears? Although it might not be possible to plan for everything, here are some ways to prepare for international student life in the UK:

1. Research student life in the UK

Even though you’re in the United Kingdom to study, you need to balance studying with a social life. Otherwise, you risk boredom, or worse, burnout. Luckily, students all over the world love to socialise, and British students are no exception.

The most well-known time to join student life in the UK is at Freshers Week. This is when new students are welcomed to the university with various social events. There will be a fair in which the various clubs and societies at the university try to recruit new members - think this scene from Pitch Perfect!

There’s a club for every interest, hobby or sport, and it’s a great way to meet people with similar interests to yours. There are some pretty unusual clubs too. At Cambridge for example, there’s a secretive group that climbs university buildings in the middle of the night!

Freshers Week is also a great opportunity to talk to everyone you can. Whether it’s in the queue to get your student card or to your neighbour in your first lecture, everybody is in the same situation as you - they know nobody and are trying to figure out who to be friends with. You may find great friends, or one conversation will be the extent of your interactions, but Freshers Week is all about random encounters.

2. Get to know the staff

On your course website, you’ll be able to have a look at the academic staff and PhD candidate profiles. Get an idea for their different research interests, and if their past publications are listed try to read at least a couple of abstracts of their papers.

This will help you know what they’re going to focus on when the teaching starts, and it’ll also give you lots of inspiration when the time comes for you to start choosing independent study project topics.

You can get to know the academic staff by signing up for online events before term starts. You’ll hear them talking about the course and what you’ll learn on it. Think about the questions you might ask.

Read your course syllabus before the event and think of questions such as why they’ve chosen particular topics, or sequenced them in a particular way. You might even be able to watch past lectures, or sign up for events that they are participating in. That way, you’ll have some familiar faces around the department when you arrive at your university!

3. Find out about the student union

Student unions are a big part of university life in the UK. Every university has a union which you can join. Sometimes, there are a few different student unions, so you can choose the one which you think would suit you best.

Student unions usually occupy a building on campus, where they host social events and provide spaces to have lunch, study and socialise.

But as well as organising clubs, societies and social events, they can also help with any problems you might have. Each union has a welfare officer, who is usually a recent graduate who has been elected to help current students with any personal issues they might face.

There will also be an international students’ officer who usually has direct experience of being an international student and any issues they might face. Even though you might never need to ask them for help, it can be reassuring to know there are people there to listen to your problems and try to offer solutions.

4. Learn about the social scene in the town or city where you’re heading

University life is more than just happenings on campus. There’s a whole world outside your institution to be investigated. As well as nightlife, restaurants and cultural events, there are also sports clubs, outdoor activities, or volunteering organised in the local community.

Reach Volunteering has a large database of opportunities to volunteer, and it’s a great way to use your skills to help others. These can be valuable ways to meet local people and build up your network of friends and acquaintances while studying in the UK. The more you can see of life in the UK, the more you’ll become used to it and feel comfortable there.

If you’re worried about your level of English - don’t be! People in the UK are very tolerant of how their language is used. It’s a truly global language, so there’s no right or wrong accent. If you do become part of the local community, be prepared to develop a slight accent from the area in which you study - this is a sign that you’ve integrated well!

5. Follow your new university on social media

Social media is a key part of all our lives, and this also goes for university life. Universities and colleges run their own social media accounts where they often share the positive achievements of their staff and students, or candid photographs from around campus. Sometimes, a current student will do a takeover of their account which is a valuable opportunity to get an insight into what it’s like to study there.

There are also student-run sites and social accounts which give an insider perspective on student life. Sites like The Tab cover news relevant to students, and have sections which cover news at specific universities. The Student Room is also a place where current and former students discuss all aspects of student life in the UK, from exams to the TV shows students like to watch.

6. Pay attention to the English-language test

You’ll need to pass an English test to get your student visa, but you should treat it as an opportunity to learn. Pay close attention to what’s on the test, because these are the things you’ll need to do every day as a student in the UK.

For example, the speaking component of the PTE Academic test, which can be used for UK visas and to access 99% of UK universities, tests your ability to summarise an academic lecture.

You won’t just need to do this in your classes - you might also need to summarise a lecture for a friend if they weren’t able to go to it. Every task on the test has a real-world application, so if you can pass the test you can be confident that you stand a good chance of making the most of life in the UK.

 

Remember though, although you can do as much research as you like, there’s only so much you can learn online. At the end of the day, you need to learn through experience, and the only way you’ll experience a place is by being there. Be ready to be surprised and take advantage of things you never thought would happen. You only get to be an undergraduate once, so make the most of every opportunity!

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If you have been looking to add value to your college applications, jobs, or just to enhance your skills, PTE is the right exam for you. PTE is a test that aims to qualify your competency in English. PTE certification gives you an edge for college, visas, and immigration.

There are different distinctions among PTE exams designed to make you eligible for admissions and immigration. PTE Academic is focused on upgrading students for college applications. Most students who aspire to study abroad appear for PTE Academic as it is accepted by over 3000+universities and colleges.

The PTE Academic is a 3-hour long online test conducted from designated exam centers that are based across the country. However, Pearson is introducing a shorter, 2-hour long exam starting on November 16 that you can either appear for from the comfort of your home or from the center.

This exam tests your English proficiency for day-to-day communication. Any candidate who wishes to take the exam can do so as there are no particular educational eligibility criteria. However, candidates must be above 16 years of age to appear for the exam. For anyone below 18 years of age appearing, a sign by their parents on the parental consent form is mandatory. The form is available on Pearson’s website.

PTE exam preparation might not need months for most students, but it is better to plan ahead and learn from the best resources possible. PTE is designed to test the proficiency of individuals who do or do not use English as a primary language. By appearing for the exam, you can assess how adequate your command of English is.

Like any other exam, PTE too requires consistent practice. And the most efficient way to practice for this test is by appearing for PTE online practice tests. Pearson has a range of online tests that are designed to give you a glimpse of the actual exam. Their practice tests include sample questions and the official PTE Academic guide.

Along with PTE mock tests, Pearson also offers a collection of official coursebooks that include:

• PTE Academic Practice Test Plus Volume 1 & 2 With these books, you can assess your answers with an annotated answer key and score guide. You all get access to audiobooks that help you prepare for the listening and speaking exams. They have authentic questions and strategies, tips, and guidance to help you ace each task type in your PTE exam.
• PTE Academic 79 Plus This book has more than 150 practice questions with sample answers. It is perfect for candidates looking for advanced preparation and an extra boost to perform their best in the exam.
  
  When you are preparing for an exam that qualifies you for prestigious opportunities, you want to ensure that you perform your best. Most universities or institutes have a PTE cut-off score of their own. To achieve that or even higher, it is important that you give your best shot. If your aim is to leave no stone unturned to achieve the highest score, then you must make the most out of these online practice tests.

Here’s how online practice tests help you to score high on the PTE Exam:

1. You get familiar with the exam pattern and the type of questions on the test.
2. Practice test helps you analyze your performance and judge your possible score on the official test.
3. When you are preparing for the test in a mock setting, you get to assess your weaknesses and work on them.
4. You have a fair idea of where you stand.
5. The tests are scored; hence, you get to set a benchmark for yourself and analyze your scope of improvement.
6. The test results are typically available in 2 business days which saves you a lot of time without delaying even a bit in your preparation.
7. With online practice tests, you get to work on each task and subject at your own pace till the day of examination.
8. All the Pearson practice tests and coursebooks have a unique set of questions that give you an opportunity to challenge yourself.
9. You get used to performing in a limited time period without hindering your efficiency.
10. The test keeps evolving over the years, and with online practice tests, you can keep up with the changes.
11. Lastly, the practice helps you stay sharp, calm, and confident about your performance.

Online practice tests are an important part of your overall preparation for the test. Taking these mock tests in all sincerity will help you be at the top of your game.

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In today’s day and age, English proficiency holds significance in all walks of life. PTE is an exam that tests your competency in English and its certification makes you eligible for over 3000+ universities, and colleges.

PTE Academic is focused on the speaking, writing, and listening abilities of candidates in the English language. You will be required to read, write, listen, and speak throughout different parts of your test. To understand it better, here is the PTE test format and its 3 topics:

• Speaking and writing
• Reading
• Listening

The topics are self-explanatory and give a fair idea of the tasks you need to perform. Their question types are very similar and consist of summaries, multiple choice questions, fill in the blanks, etc. They are all focused on testing your vocabulary and language skills.

It is often seen that even if candidates are able to achieve writing and reading proficiency, speaking can come with it’s own set of difficulties. Rushing thoughts can make it difficult to find the right words or to decide what to speak.

Your qualification of PTE speaking depends on your ability of quick thinking and wrapping your thoughts precisely in words. But if you are someone who is generally nervous about speaking then there’s a possibility that you might find it difficult to reach for words or even tend to talk at a faster pace, which is a drawback in PTE speaking test.

But there are ways to improve your PTE speaking score. One of them is to thoroughly understand the speaking test pattern. One of the topics is the personal introduction. This part is not under evaluation, but the response is shared with the institutions that you apply to. Apart from the personal introduction, there are 7 types of questions that you have to appear.

• Read Aloud
• Repeat Sentence
• Describe Image
• Re-tell Lecture
• Answer Short Question
• Summarize Written Text
• Essay

All these above topics involve you listening carefully and speaking precisely. Here are some PTE speaking tips that you can use to practice for this section of the test.

• Speak at a gradual speed and in a medium tone While appearing for the exam, you could have a feeling that you have to rush your answers because of limited time. As soon as the beep goes off, your heart might start racing, and knowingly or unknowingly, you will speak as fast as you can, to sum up your answer within the designated time. But, this will do you no good.
  
  For PTE speaking practice, you have to learn to talk at a gradual speed. You will have only 30 seconds to answer, but it is enough. The answers will be small, and you can easily cover them over a span of a few seconds. When you speak, be conscious of your speed as well as your tone. Make sure that it is not low, as that might not be recorded clearly. Make sure to be loud and clear but not bawl. You can practice the same using PTE speaking preparation resources available on the website.
• Enunciate well Enunciation is very important for the PTE speaking test. But, strike the right balance between enunciating rightly and not using plosive sounds. Your words should be as clear as possible. And for that, you also need to be precise with your pronunciations.
  
  To learn how to pronounce words correctly, you can begin by noting down some common or popular words that you do not know the correct pronunciation of. We all have a list, don't we? Besides that, reading books, news, articles, listening to audiobooks, podcasts, and watching visual content like movies, documentaries can introduce you to new words as well as their pronunciation.
• Don’t use colloquial language Slangs are for social media and social life. The PTE exam demands formal and advanced vocabulary. There is a high chance that while speaking your answers, you might slip into your casual language as it is habitual. However, with practice and conscious efforts in your daily routine, you can avoid this.
  
  You can avoid using informal language by taking PTE speaking mock tests. That is one method that can help you improve your speaking skills and prepare you to answer efficiently in a limited time.
• Avoid filler words Often, in between responses, you may require more time to think, be unable to find the appropriate words, or wish to say more. In any case, avoid overusing filler words such as so, like, and, etc. If you say anything wrong and want to rectify it, start a new sentence.
  
  If you want to add something, use appropriate conjunctions. You can use coordinating conjunctions like and, but. You can also use subordinating conjunctions like although, because, in order to. For establishing a point or alternative use paired conjunctions like not only…but also. Also use transitional words like however, therefore to conclude your points.
  
  Now that you are aware of your possible mistakes, you can start working on amending them. These little tips will not only help you score well, but they will prepare you well for your academic and professional verbal skills.

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The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academics Exam tests the candidates based on a comprehensive knowledge of the English language. PTE is one of the widely recognised computer-based English language proficiency tests available in order to take admission in prestigious educational institutions abroad or work for professionals and government organisations that require a standard of academic English language proficiency. PTE exam needs rigorous practice and preparation in the main language proficiency domains such as Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. These parts are divided into 3 tests and further sub-tests or tasks.

In order to improve your PTE test score, there are some easy-to-adopt habits that you can pick up during your preparation:

1. Converse in English: One of the best ways to excel in any language is to speak and converse in it as much as possible. Talking in English with friends or people close to you can boost your confidence and help you get fluent in the language.
2. Keep a journal for writing in English: Keeping a journal to write your thoughts, ideas, important events in life, notes, details of the day, to-do list (In English of course) is one of the most effective ways to practice your English writing. While doing this, you may encounter the need to learn words to describe a specific event or feeling, which can improve your vocabulary too. Building a habit to keep a journal and practising writing in English can significantly improve your chances to score better in the PTE exam.
3. Reading newspapers and books: Reading English newspapers, books, online journals etc., have a significant impact on the understanding and presentation of the language in the written form. Since you have started communicating in English, you must expand the reach of your language, your vocabulary, and its usage in general as well as in the formal context. Effective reading habit has a clear positive impact on all the segments of the PTE exam.
4. Discuss in groups: Group discussion, friendly debates on current events or any topic can improve your communication skills, pronunciation, and fluency, all the things necessary for a good PTE score.
5. Reading aloud: The practice of reading aloud is a very effective tool and habit one can develop while preparing for the PTE exam. Reading aloud can improve your pronunciation, use of filler words and vocabulary, which is very helpful in the Reading section of the PTE exam.
6. Watch and listen to English content: There is an abundance of content one can use to their advantage for learning. Watch English movies without subtitles or podcasts in order to improve listening skills, write down words you don't understand and look up their meaning later. This habit can improve your pronunciation and vocabulary of the English language. 
7. Play memory-boosting games and exercises: Playing games in order to learn is an interesting habit you can indulge in anywhere, whenever you find a little bit of free time. The memory sharpens with more usage. Choose challenging and shorter exercises to keep yourself on your toes. You can also play vocabulary building exercises to enhance your word power. These games and exercises will better your reaction time, which is very helpful during the PTE exam.
8. Meditate: You may think why meditating is required to improve PTE score, but meditation helps you develop focus and concentration, which is very helpful during the 3-hour PTE exam time. Daily meditation can also help you feel calmer and relieve stress while preparing for the exam.
9. Record yourself speaking: A simple habit of preparing a small speech and then reading it out loud while recording yourself or dictating a passage from a book can give you a basic idea of how you sound when speaking into a microphone. Pay special attention to natural habits like adding fillers in place of required words. This will help you improve your pronunciation and speech pattern and significantly increase your score in the PTE exam.
10. Think in English: This might sound a little weird but thinking in English can help you remarkably improve your English. In our natural process of speaking, our subconscious mind thinks in our native language. But you can train your mind to think in English, it is like practising 24×7, and you will be surprised by the improvement you will make in the language.

The above easy-to-adopt habits can help you improve your PTE test score significantly. Hence, you can easily adapt them in your preparation course to prepare better and eventually score well in the PTE exam.

For more information regarding the PTE Academic and PTE preparation material click here, and improve your PTE Academic exam score.

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The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academics Exam is a widely recognised computer-based English language proficiency test. PTE Academic provides a measure of a test taker’s language ability to assist educational institutions, professionals and government organisations that require a standard of academic English language proficiency for admission purposes.

The PTE Academic Test consists of 3 parts Speaking and Writing; Reading; Listening. These 3 parts are divided further into sub-tests or tasks. Each part is timed. The entire PTE Academic test has to be completed in 3 hours. All this may prove to be a daunting experience for many candidates, which might lead to making some errors on their part. These common errors can be easily avoided by being a little more careful.

Let's have a look at some common mistakes to avoid in the PTE Academic exam:

1. Being too fast: Being fast does not mean being fluent. For the speaking test, if you try to speak too fast, it can affect your pronunciation and overall fluency score.
2. Using incorrect tense: Sometimes candidates make minor grammatical mistakes unknowingly, such as using the wrong tense while describing a situation or things. For example, using simple present tense instead of present continuous tense. Although it might seem like a small error, it can cause you to lose marks.
3. Using filler sounds: While trying to think of words to deliver, aspirants often make filler sounds like 'aah', 'uhm', 'umm', etc. It can negatively affect the fluency score. An effective way to avoid fillers is to prepare some template words for speaking. The more you practice speaking using these words, the better you can avoid unnecessary sounds.
4. Pausing too long: Pausing a fraction of a second for dramatic effect is good, but beyond that, it is a mistake; because if you pause for 3 seconds or more in the PTE-A Speaking Module, then the microphone goes off. Anything you say after will not get recorded.
5. Not adhering to the word limit: It is important to write in a precise and concise manner when it comes to Summarize Written Test, and Essay in writing tasks, and most importantly adhere to the word limit and not writing past it. Stick to writing 200-300 words, as writing more or less than the prescribed word limit will result in you getting a lower PTE score.
6. Not reading questions carefully: The multiple-choice, choose multiple answer item types have a negative marking scheme. Hence, it is crucial that you select the options after reading the question carefully. Only select the options that you are confident and sure about.
7. Not checking the time: It is of utmost importance to check the remaining time after finishing each question type. Sometimes, candidates ignore the time remaining and do not finish the allotted sections in the specific time frame, which results in more questions and less time for the later sections.
8. Using informal language: Sometimes candidates make the mistake of using informal or casual language, which results in a poor score. It is advisable to use academic and formal language in all sections of the test.
9. Not paying attention to spellings and punctuation: One of the crucial details that many candidates overlook is paying close attention to spelling mistakes and not using proper or adequate punctuations while writing. Too many spelling mistakes may have a bad impact on your PTE score. Hence, prepare well to avoid these mistakes.
10. Not making use of the notepad: During the test make sure that when you hear some keywords important to answer the questions, you must write them down on the erasable notepad provided to you. Many times, candidates forget to use the notepad for writing down important details or words, which they forget later while answering the questions.

The above mistakes may look small, but they may cost you the perfect score you dream of. Hence, it is wise to prepare better and work on these mistakes while giving the PTE mock tests in order to learn from them and avoid them in the actual exam.

For more information regarding the PTE Academic and PTE preparation material click here, and fulfil your dream of moving abroad with PTE Academic.

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Shorter test, less stress

From November 16, PTE Academic and PTE Academic UKVI tests will take just two hours to complete, instead of three hours. There are no changes to the overall format, question types or scoring scale; there will simply be fewer questions to answer (from 70-82, to 52–64). Also, No need for a break during the test. So you can prepare in the same way.

However, the test is still accepted by all the same universities and professional bodies – including 3,000+ academic institutions worldwide – and by the UK, Australia and New Zealand governments for visa and immigration purposes*.

*PTE Academic Online is valid for student visa only.

Why are we changing our test length?

To make PTE Academic the most convenient choice for test takers.

PTE Academic launched more than 10 years ago and is now one of the world's leading tests of English language skills, thanks to our innovative approach.

Our goal is to continue to be the innovators in English language testing, by constantly reviewing and improving our testing practices.

Through extensive testing, our research teams found that reducing the number of questions could improve the efficiency of PTE Academic with no impact on test scores or quality. This means PTE Academic will continue to provide a highly accurate and reliable indication of your English ability.

Preparing for PTE Academic

You can prepare for the two-hour test in the same way you would for the three-hour test.

All of the question types are the same, so you can use all of the resources available on our preparation pages.

If you choose to take a scored practice test, remember that you won't have to take as many questions as you see currently (but it's worth practicing them anyway!). New two-hour versions of our practice tests will be available from October 27.

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1. PTE Academic two-hour test

From November 16th 2021 the duration of PTE Academic will reduce from three hours down to two. This means an improved experience for candidates with less time spent taking the exam, whilst the accuracy of the test remains the same.

There are no changes to the overall format, question types or scoring scale – there will simply be fewer questions – allowing candidates to prepare in the same way.

Most importantly, the shorter PTE Academic test is still accepted by the same universities and professional bodies, including more than 3000 academic institutions world-wide, and by the governments of the UK, Australia and New Zealand for visa and immigration purposes.

2. New PTE Academic online

Pearson is also launching PTE Academic Online. Exactly the same test as PTE Academic, we are now offering it as a new online proctored option for people who prefer to sit the test remotely, from the comfort of their own home.

Also available to take from November 16th 2021, the online test takes two hours and will follow the same format and scoring system as the new shorter PTE Academic test centre exam.

It’s important to note that although the online test is identical to PTE Academic, it is not currently valid for visa or migration purposes. We also ask candidates to check that the universities they are applying to accept the online version before booking this test.

Freya Thomas Monk, Senior Vice President, English Language Learning, Pearson, said: "Many of our PTE Academic test-takers want to move abroad to study at university or progress their careers.  To help them in their journey we have rolled-out a shorter PTE Academic test to be taken in test centres and a new online PTE Academic test which can be taken at home.”

PTE Academic and PTE Academic Online are delivered through Pearson VUE’s global network of test centres and through its online proctoring solution, OnVUE. With just a simple check-in process, utilising highly secure ID verification tools, face-matching technology, and a live proctor, candidates can test without leaving the comfort of home. Test-takers must have access to a reliable internet connection, a computer with a webcam and a quiet location to take the test.

Find out more at https://pearsonpte.com

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Millions of students from all over the globe plan on studying or moving abroad every year, and in order to do so, they have to prove their English language proficiency. The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academics Exam is a widely recognised computer-based English language proficiency test. PTE Academic provides a measure of a test taker’s language ability to assist educational institutions, professionals and government organisations that require a standard of academic English language proficiency for admission purposes. PTE accesses the speaking, writing, listening, and reading ability of test taker and consists of twenty different question formats, ranging from multiple-choice, essay writing and interpreting information.

To help you overcome your doubts and ease the burden of questions you might have about the process, we have made a step-by-step guide with the process and overview of the activities.

Wider acceptance:

PTE Academic is popular amongst non-native aspirants who desire to study or move abroad. Some countries that accept the PTE exam are Australia, the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, and New Zealand. PTE Academic is recognised by thousands of universities worldwide, including Yale University, Harvard University, Aston University, Boston College, Pearson College London, Oxford University and many more. The PTE Academic scores are eligible to take admission in a university or an institution for various academic courses such as Bachelor of Science Programs, Bachelor of Arts Programs, Bachelor of Law Programs etc. For more details on the acceptance, kindly visit https://pearsonpte.com/locations/

Computer-based test:

PTE Academic is the first entirely computer-based English language proficiency test accepted across the world. It evaluates the four skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The test lasts approximately 3 hours, where the test takers must perform speaking tasks using a headset, and the answers get recorded on the computer. For the Writing Module, all tasks are to be typed. The Listening and Reading Modules have a mix of MCQ/Fill in the Blanks type of questions with other question types. It is a good test of your analytical/logical reasoning skills.

AI-based scoring pattern:

PTE uses an automated scoring system as there are no human examiners in the PTE exam. Artificial Intelligence (AI) scoring means your English language skills get evaluated by an algorithm that mimics how human examiners score based on a substantial number of responses. It is rated against the Global Scale of English (GSE), giving you an accurate overview of your skills. It is one of the significant reasons to take up the PTE academics exam as the test score is unbiased, genuine, and based only on what the test takers say. The PTE Academic Score includes your overall score, communicative skills scores and enabling skills scores. Check how is the test scored here https://pearsonpte.com/the-test/about-our-scores/how-is-the-test-scored/

Fastest score delivery:

One of the best reasons to choose the PTE academics exam is that the PTE test results are delivered typically within just 48 hours of taking the test. Also, the overall time from registration, exam, and receiving the scorecard is speedy, making the PTE exam stand out from other general entrance exams. 

Availability of test dates and venues:

The PTE academics test provides exceptional flexibility. You can book the test as little as 24 hours earlier than a test session, 365 days a year. Test takers have more than 350 test centres in over 70 countries to choose from, making it easier and comfortable for the candidates if they stumble upon a last-minute opportunity. Locate the test centres by country and city here https://pearsonpte.com/the-test/test-centers-and-fees/

Accepted for Visa and Migration Applications:

People all around the globe dream of moving abroad to study in reputed universities as a gateway to personal growth and international employability. In order to do so, the crucial requirement is to take an English language proficiency test as part of their university admissions process, and often for the residential visa and the work visa purposes. That means they will be tested on a variety of English language skills, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The PTE exam is one of the most preferred English language proficiency tests because it is accepted for study applications by thousands of academic programs worldwide and approved by the Australian and New Zealand Governments for all student visa and migration applications. 

Prepare at home:

You can apply for the top universities worldwide if you manage to score well in PTE academic exam. Practice is the key to score high in the PTE exam. The PTE academic provides a range of preparation options to help candidates score better and achieve their dreams of studying abroad. The preparation packages include Scored Practice Tests, PTE Academic Question Banks, The Official Guide to PTE Academic, PTE Academic English Booster. One can choose from the range of preparation packages based on their preparation level. The Scored Practice tests help you understand the test format and get a full score report to check your progress. You can choose from 4 different scored practice test versions. The PTE Academic Question Bank includes 300 questions and answers on all task types, including audio and written sample answers for the Speaking and Writing sections. The Official Guide to PTE Academic has a Digital eBook with the best in-depth information and tips on the test with extra online resources. PTE Academic English Booster helps you boost your English skills with plenty of practice activities to sharpen your test preparedness. To buy preparation packages or more information on the same, visit https://pearsonpte.com/preparation/

Send scores unlimited times:

PTE academics gives you an opportunity like no other test. With PTE academics, you have the freedom to send your test scores to as many universities, organisations as you wish to, with no additional cost. This freedom increases the likelihood of acceptance and provides the candidates with ample opportunities to achieve their dreams of moving abroad. 

In conclusion, you can consider the above reasons to take up the PTE Academics exam if you plan to study or move abroad. One cannot find a more suitable English language proficiency test than PTE Academics. To register for the test or to know more, visit https://pearsonpte.com/ 

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We live in an era where getting an advanced learning experience is easier than it used to be. Millions of students around the globe are aspiring to study abroad, and it has become a common phenomenon. Studying abroad is approached as a steppingstone in any student’s life as it provides value education from reputed universities and explores new cultures, broadens perspective, helps you expand your network and learn valuable skills along the way. But even in this age of information, one might feel intimidated by the process of planning to study abroad. The process is long and may get exhausting. Hence it is advisable to start as soon as you decide to study overseas and become ready to step into planning. 

To help you overcome your doubts and ease the burden of questions you might have about the process, we have made a step-by-step guide with the process and overview of the activities.

Do your research:

As basic as it may sound, but research is a crucial part of the plan. Researching about prospective programs, courses, universities, teaching modules, campus life, employment, demographic, and cultures is a good idea before planning further. 

Decide what you want to study:

Deciding what you want to study can save you time narrowing down on career paths and respective programmes. You can always choose in-demand or popular disciplines like Engineering, Law, Medicine and Business and Management, or you may go to the creative fields such as Arts and Literature.

Prioritise on the location:

Once you decide what you want to study, you may ask yourself which country will provide you with a suitable environment for your selected field of study, as certain countries are known for their universities and specific courses they offer. Also, consider the cost of living and employment opportunities after you graduate.

Consult with a study abroad advisor:

If you face any difficulty while planning your study abroad journey, you may consult with a study abroad advisor. They might help you narrow down program choices by analysing your best academic, financial, and cultural fit based on your individual preferences. They may also give you a timeline brochure or a checklist to help guide you on this path.

Narrow down study programs and compare them:

Once you decide on the country and subject you want to study, the question remains of which program to choose. Each university offers one (or multiple) study programmes in the same discipline. Gather all your preferred study programs and compare them against a particular criterion such as duration, flexibility, the focus of the study and the overall experience of the course. 

Pass the requisite admission tests:

If you are planning for a master’s degree, you may have to pass the respective admission tests such as GMAT, GRE along with an English language proficiency test to prove your grasp of the language. Most universities accept one of the following English language certificates: IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, C1 Advanced. PTE Academic is one of the most popular English Language proficiency tests, recognised by thousands of universities worldwide. For registration and more information on PTE, visit https://pearsonpte.com/

Finalise on universities and start documentation:

Once you finalise the few universities, prepare a list of shortlisted universities and their requirements. Start downloading their applications and financial aid forms and keep other required documents ready for the further process. 

Start writing SOP and requesting recommendation letters:

Statement Of Purpose (SOP) is an essay written to describe the purpose of applying to a particular course in a specific university, and a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) is a letter written by your employer or teachers, stating your capabilities and talents.

Look for financial aid and scholarships:

Exploring financial aid options and scholarships could be one of the very crucial steps in your planning process. Financial aid can include loan to support the studies and living expenses. Apply to as many scholarships as you can when searching for ways to finance. You may seek out different financial aids, such as scholarships, grants, student loans etc.

Prepare application and start applying:

You have come a long way, and now it is time for you to get organised and do the most crucial task, and that is- applying. Even if you think you have good grades and an impressive letter or essay, you shouldn’t apply to only one university. It’s true, you might get accepted, but what will you do if you aren’t? That is why you should apply to at least 3 or 4 universities you have shortlisted. The application may vary depending on the countries or universities. So, make sure you read the admission requirements carefully and follow the procedure. Try to keep track of all the deadlines throughout the process.

Offer acceptance:

One of the most rewarding steps in the process is when your application gets accepted. You are on your way to becoming an international student! But what if you get accepted to more than one university? You can go over your choices and consult with your counsellor or consider weighing the pros and cons and make an informed decision. You can take up to 2 to 3 days before giving your confirmation. After you send your confirmation, make sure they have received it, they might ask for additional documents after that for further process. 

Apply and prepare for visa process:

If the country you get accepted in has a visa requirement, you would want to get on the process as soon as possible. Applying for a visa can be a lengthy process, and each country has a different requirement. There are many documents necessary, and the issuance of the visa can take from a few weeks to a few months, keep that in mind and plan accordingly in advance. 

Ensure financial readiness:

We are almost at the end of the step-by-step guide on how to plan your study abroad. After you are through with the admission and visa process, you need to make sure of your financial preparedness, as going abroad does not come cheap. From course fees to flight expenses to accommodation, several last-minute things might come up, and you need to be ready for any situation.

Post admission process:

Hurray! You are finally ready to start a new journey. Last but not least, you need to prepare for several other things, such as flight, packing, learning about the culture of the country, learning about the laws, rules and regulations, banking system, SIM cards, insurance etc.

And that is it! Your step-by-step guide on how to plan your study abroad completes here. You are now about to embark on one of the most interesting, educational, fun, empowering and sometimes challenging journeys in your life.

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