Has PTE scoring really changed in 2026?
TL;DR:
- This blog is designed for PTE test takers, students applying to Australian universities, and PR applicants who want to understand the latest PTE score chart, 2026 updates, and PTE vs IELTS comparison for visa or admission purposes.
- The PTE test format and scoring criteria remain unchanged. The updates only affect the PTE to IELTS score equivalency chart (Concordance Report), which helps candidates interpret scores more accurately.
- Pearson’s 10–90 scale can be grouped into six bands Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate, Upper-Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert. Candidates should aim for Upper-Intermediate (59+) to meet most university and visa English requirements.
- The blog explains how to use the PTE score chart strategically by setting clear targets per skill, tracking progress by band, and balancing Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening for better results and PR point maximisation.
- The latest PTE updated score chart (2026) refines the mapping between PTE and IELTS. For example, PTE 79+ ≈ IELTS 7.5+, and PTE 58–65 ≈ IELTS 6.5. These updates ensure fairness and accuracy for both academic admissions and migration assessments.
Introduction:
Preparing for the PTE Academic test can be confusing, especially with rumors about changes in scoring. Many test takers wonder: “Has PTE scoring changed in 2026?” This article clarifies the myths, explains the updated PTE score charts, and helps you understand how PTE scores compare with IELTS bands in 2026.
Whether you are a student aiming for university admission or a professional targeting visa points for Australian PR, this guide will help you interpret your scores correctly.
Know more about PTE scoring and preparation:
Has PTE Scoring Really Changed in 2026?
The aim of this article is to educate the reader regarding some myths about the PTE-A scoring criteria. The Pearson Concordance report is about how PTE scores align with IELTS scores (PTE And IELTS Score Comparison).
Frankly, nothing has changed with the PTE exam itself, how it is scored, or the scores that you need to achieve for your Australian university admissions. However, many test takers are curious about PTE changes 2026, the PTE new update score, and the PTE score update, which we will clarify below.
In 2020, when Pearson released the PTE Concordance report, a lot of students and test takers were confused regarding the changes in the scoring criteria and the new PTE score chart.
Your PTE test result scoring is still valid and has not changed. The PTE new score chart is simply an updated reference for score equivalency with IELTS.
A candidate who scored 79 (instead of 84) in each section will still continue to get 20 visa points from the Department of Home Affairs (Australia) for their Permanent Resident Visa; their level of English Proficiency will remain the same.
A score of 79 or more in each module of the PTE test will enable you to claim 20 visa points for your Australian PR.
Why Did PTE Need to Publish a New Concordance Report in 2020?
We’d like to explain a little about the purpose of the Concordance Report shared by PTE Pearson – it is to enable governments, universities, and professional bodies to see how they have updated the score ranges against IELTS/TOEFL bands. This is part of the ongoing PTE changes 2026 and the PTE new update score efforts to provide clarity on score equivalency.
Read all about the Complete guide to PTE Test Format 2026.
Like other language test providers, the PTE team of Pearson undertakes periodic reviews of its score concordance with other tests. This helps them update the PTE score chart and ensure accuracy in scoring.
This enables them to re-evaluate, validate, and update the PTE score concordance as appropriate, maintaining the highest levels of accuracy when scoring test takers.
The concordance research only compares PTE Academic and IELTS Academic tests (PTE IELTS Comparison). The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) has not changed.
The original concordance table between PTE Academic and IELTS Academic test scores was based on a linking study conducted in 2009 (published 2011).
The research by Pearson involved collecting score data from candidates who each undertook PTE Academic and IELTS Academic tests within a short time period.
Test takers were generally representative of PTE Academic test takers in terms of gender, age, primary language, and country of citizenship.
PTE Academic remains the most accurate and reliable test of academic English. There have been no changes to the construct and scoring of PTE Academic.
In the mid-range, where the test is typically used for academic admissions purposes, the updated concordant scores have been minimally adjusted. This is reflected in the new PTE score chart for reference.
At IELTS 7.5 and above, the concordant PTE Academic scores, while in the same range, are at some points higher on the scale.
At IELTS 6.5 and below, the concordant PTE Academic scores, while in the same range, are at some points lower on the scale.
So friends, DON’T WORRY!
At the date on which this blog is published, the PTE scoring is exactly the same as it has always been as far as applying for Australian Temporary Residency and Permanent Residency visas are concerned.
Please contact us for more information on best PTE, IELTS, and NAATI CCL coaching services on <mention website and phone number>.
If you are looking to improve your PTE scores, you can look for our FREE PTE Preparation Material to get you started. These resources also reflect the PTE new score chart and PTE score updates for 2026.
Understanding the Updated PTE Score Chart (2026)
Many test takers are curious about the PTE changes 2026and how these affect their scores. The PTE new update score primarily refers to minor adjustments in the new PTE score chart that show equivalency with IELTS bands. It is important to note that PTE scoring itself has not changed; the updates are only in the reference charts to help candidates interpret their results more accurately.
The PTE score update ensures that governments, universities, and professional bodies have the most accurate comparison between PTE Academic and IELTS scores. For instance:
- At IELTS 7.5 and above, the concordant PTE Academic scores are slightly higher at some points.
- At IELTS 6.5 and below, the concordant PTE Academic scores are slightly lower at some points.
The new PTE score chart is especially useful for students applying for university admission or for visa applications, as it provides a clear mapping of PTE scores to IELTS equivalents.
Key Takeaways for Test Takers:
- The PTE new score chart is a reference tool and does not change how your test is scored.
- Focus on achieving high scores in each module rather than worrying about small adjustments in the chart.
Use the chart to plan your study strategy, set realistic goals, and monitor your progress.
PTE Score Card in Bands
Understanding the PTE score card in bands helps test-takers evaluate their English proficiency level more clearly. Pearson’s 10–90 score scale can be grouped into bands that reflect your communication ability from Beginner to Expert.
These band levels show how comfortably you can use English in academic, professional, and everyday contexts.
Here’s the detailed PTE score card in bands breakdown:
|
Band Level |
PTE Score Range |
Skill Description |
|
Expert |
85 – 90 |
Demonstrates near-native fluency with precise, natural communication across all contexts. |
|
Advanced |
76 – 84 |
Communicates effectively in complex and professional situations with rare minor errors. |
|
Upper-Intermediate |
59 – 75 |
Handles academic and workplace conversations confidently; occasional grammatical slips. |
|
Intermediate |
43 – 58 |
Can manage daily interactions and familiar topics but may struggle with abstract ideas. |
|
Elementary |
30 – 42 |
Understands and conveys basic information with limited vocabulary and structure. |
|
Beginner |
10 – 29 |
Can use simple phrases and expressions; requires improvement for formal communication. |
Tip: For most Australian visa and university applications, candidates should aim for at least the Upper-Intermediate band (59+) to meet English proficiency requirements.
How to Use the PTE Score Chart Strategically
Knowing the latest PTE score chart is not enough using it strategically can help you set clear goals, track your progress, and target your visa or university requirements more effectively.
Here’s how to make the most of your PTE score card:
1. Set Clear Targets Based on Requirements
Before you start preparing, check the English proficiency level you need whether it’s Competent English, Proficient English, or Superior English for Australian immigration or academic entry.
Match these targets with the PTE updated score chart to know your minimum score in each skill area (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
2. Track Your Progress by Band
Use the PTE score card in bands to measure your growth.
- If you’re currently at Intermediate (43–58), aim to move up to Upper-Intermediate (59–75).
- Regular mock tests and feedback will show which skills need focused improvement.
3. Balance All Four Skills
With the new PTE score update, a high score in one skill can no longer offset a weaker one.
Plan your practice schedule so that each skill Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening receives equal attention.
4. Use the Chart to Plan Study Strategy
The latest PTE score chart isn’t just a reference it’s your performance map.
- Set mini-goals for each skill.
- Analyse your mock test results and see which band you fall into.
- Adjust your learning plan weekly based on progress.
5. Focus on Incremental Improvements
Even a small jump say, from 65 to 70 can move you from Proficient English to Superior English, improving your PR points or scholarship eligibility.
-
PTE vs IELTS: Score Equivalency 2026
Understanding how your PTE scores align with IELTS bands is essential for academic admissions, visa applications, and English proficiency benchmarking. The latest PTE updated score chart (2026) clarifies these equivalencies, helping candidates interpret results more accurately.
Below is the official PTE to IELTS band comparison based on the latest updates from Pearson’s concordance data and Australian immigration requirements:
- PTE 79+ generally corresponds to IELTS 7.5 and above, reflecting high English proficiency.
- Mid-range scores in PTE align with IELTS scores around 6.5–7.0, with slight variations due to updated concordance.
- Lower-range PTE scores correspond to IELTS 6.0 and below, with minor adjustments shown in the new PTE score chart.
What This Means for You
- For Students: Use this chart to determine university eligibility most institutions require IELTS 6.5+, equivalent to PTE 58–65.
- For PR Applicants: Australian immigration recognises Competent, Proficient, and Superior English levels based on PTE scores.
For Test Preparation: Focus on balanced improvement across all four skills since each contributes to your overall band equivalency.
Key Takeaways:
- The PTE new score chart and PTE score update are reference tools, not changes to the test itself.
- High PTE scores translate directly to competitive IELTS bands.
- Use the chart to set goals for each module and track your progress efficiently.
Quick Reference for PR Applicants
|
English Level |
Minimum PTE Scores Required (per skill) |
Equivalent IELTS Band |
|
Competent English |
Listening 47, Reading 48, Writing 51, Speaking 54 |
IELTS 6.0 |
|
Proficient English |
65 in each skill |
IELTS 7.0 |
|
Superior English |
Listening 69, Reading 70, Writing 85, Speaking 88 |
IELTS 8.0+ |
These updates ensure fairness and precision in comparing results between PTE Academic and IELTS Academic, allowing institutions and governments to make consistent language-level assessments.
How to Use the PTE Score Charts Effectively
Using the PTE new score chart and the PTE score update information effectively can help you plan your preparation and track your progress:
- Check Requirements: Compare your target university or visa requirements with the new PTE score chart to understand the score you need. This ensures you focus on the right goals.
- Don’t Worry About Minor Changes: The PTE changes 2026and small adjustments in the concordance table do not impact your actual PTE scores. Your results remain valid for academic and visa purposes.
- Focus on Module Scores: Instead of stressing over chart updates, concentrate on improving each module Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. The PTE new update score guidelines can help you identify areas for improvement.
- Plan Your Study Strategically: Use the PTE score update information to set realistic study targets and monitor progress, ensuring you achieve your desired score efficiently.
By understanding and using the PTE new score chart, test takers can prepare smarter, track their performance accurately, and confidently meet academic or immigration requirements.
Resources & Tools for PTE Preparation
To achieve the best results and make the most of the PTE changes 2026, it’s important to use reliable resources and follow a structured study plan:
- Free PTE Preparation Material: Access our comprehensive PTE new update score guides and practice materials available on our website to get started.
- Online Mock Tests: Regularly practice with online mock tests to track your progress and understand your standing on the PTE new score chart.
- Structured Study Plan: Focus on improving each module Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing using strategies aligned with the latest PTE score update.
- Goal-Oriented Preparation: Use the new PTE score chart to set clear targets for each module and monitor your improvements effectively.
By leveraging these resources and tools, test takers can confidently navigate the PTE changes 2026and aim for higher scores across all modules.
FAQs: PTE Scoring Updates 2026
Q1: Has PTE scoring changed in 2026?
No, the scoring system remains the same. Only the concordance with IELTS scores has minor updates, which are reflected in the PTE score to IELTS 2026equivalency chart.
Q2: What is the new PTE score chart 2026?
The chart shows minor adjustments in PTE-IELTS equivalency. Your actual PTE scores and their implications remain unchanged. The new PTE score chart helps you see accurate PTE score to IELTS 2026 comparisons.
Q3: How does PTE score compare to IELTS in 2026?
PTE score of 79+ is still equivalent to IELTS 7.5 or higher. You can refer to the updated PTE score to IELTS 2026 table for exact ranges.
Q4: Do I need to worry about PTE score changes for Australian PR?
No. The updated chart does not affect visa points or eligibility for PR applications. It only provides a reference for PTE score to IELTS 2026equivalency.
Q5: Where can I find free PTE preparation material for 2026?
Free practice materials and mock tests, designed to help you improve scores based on the latest PTE score update and PTE score to IELTS 2026 reference.
Q6:What is a good PTE score in 2026?
A good PTE score depends on your purpose. For university admissions, a score of 58–65 (Upper-Intermediate band) is generally considered strong. For Australian PR, aim for 65 in each skill to demonstrate Proficient English, or 79+ for Superior English.
Q7:Has the PTE scoring changed in 2026?
No the PTE scoring system itself hasn’t changed. However, the latest PTE score chart and updated concordance with IELTS were refined to improve accuracy and align with current immigration and academic benchmarks. The biggest update is the introduction of minimum score requirements per skill instead of a single overall total for visa applications.
Q8:What is the PTE band equivalent for IELTS 6.5?
An IELTS 6.5 band is roughly equivalent to a PTE score between 59 and 65, placing you in the Upper-Intermediate band. This level is commonly accepted for postgraduate university entry and professional registration.
Q9:Does the PTE score chart differ for migration and study purposes?
Yes, slightly. For migration, the Department of Home Affairs requires specific minimum scores in each skill area (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking). For study or university admission, institutions often accept an overall PTE score within a target band (for example, 58–65 for most courses).
Q10:How can I interpret my score using the latest PTE score chart?
Use the PTE score card in bands to identify your proficiency level Beginner, Intermediate, Upper-Intermediate, Advanced, or Expert. Then, refer to the PTE vs IELTS comparison chart to understand your equivalent IELTS band. This will help you plan effectively for your academic or migration goals.
