To score high in the PTE, you should learn how the test works and practice regularly, focusing on aspects like speaking fluency, correct pronunciation, and expanding your vocabulary. Taking a lot of practice tests to get better at managing your time and finding your weaknesses is one good method. Also, pay close attention to tasks that have a big impact, like Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Summarise Written Text, and Write from Dictation. According to the study abroad, the number of PTE tests taken around the world rose by about 50%, with more than 1 million tests given each year.
A high score on the PTE exam is necessary for students looking to study in Australia, the UK, or other English-speaking countries. The PTE Academic test is computer-based, relatively quick, and widely accepted by universities and immigration services. Students and professionals in Abu Dhabi are increasingly opting for it.
Although the PTE (Pearson Test of English) exam should be relatively direct, many students struggle to achieve their target score. This guide outlines the best ways to achieve a high score on the PTE exam, focusing specifically on students from Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE. Learn about the most effective preparation approaches, techniques to target score improvement, and focused exam strategies that will enable you to optimise performance in the integrated skills of speaking, writing, reading and listening.
What is PTE?
The Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) is a standardised computer-based exam. It evaluates your command of English for university study applications, study visa eligibility, and professional credential evaluations. PTE measures your abilities in each of the four core language skills: speaking, writing, reading, and listening.
In contrast to the IELTS, PTE outcomes are completely and automatically scored by PTE’s AI, ensuring no human bias. In most cases, results are provided within 48 hours.
Read Also : Common Mistakes To Avoid in the PTE Test
Top Tips to Score High in the PTE Exam
Here are the most effective PTE exam strategies in the UAE that can help you improve your performance.
-
Understand the PTE exam format
-
Focus on time management
-
Practice regularly with mock tests
-
Build strong speaking skills
-
Improve your writing with templates
-
Strengthen reading skills with daily practice
-
Sharpen listening skills with audio practice
-
Use technology and online tools
-
Join a professional pte coaching institute in Abu Dhabi
-
Stay calm and confident on exam day
Let’s discuss each tip in detail.
1. Understand the PTE Exam Format
Understanding the exam format is the first step in your exam preparation. The PTE exam has four components: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. Each of these components has particular tasks like essays, summary writing, multiple choice questions, and reordering paragraphs.
Understanding the exam format will help in time allocation and will help reduce any surprises during the exam. Knowing the format is the first step to improving your PTE scores.
2. Focus on Time Management
In the PTE exam, time is the most common enemy. Each of the tasks has to be finished within the stipulated time. Many students in Abu Dhabi have trouble with the speaking and reading sections because they fixate on one question for too long.
PTE exams must be finished within approximately 2 hours. Working with a time frame during practice and preparation helps to finish tasks faster. Good time management with prescribed time tasks will improve your chances of getting a higher score.
3. Practice Regularly with Mock Tests
PTE requires practice, for which you must take practice exams. Mock tests simulate real conditions, which helps examine your strengths and weaknesses. You might find that you perform well in one area, for instance, listening, while other sections, like writing, might need your attention.
In Abu Dhabi, numerous training centres offer PTE training courses with extensive practice examinations. Completing these routinely allows you to gain familiarity and comfort with the computer interface while also training your mind and body to handle test-related stress.
4. Build Strong Speaking Skills
The PTE speaking test is the first part of the PTE test. It is a 77-93-minute computer-based test that checks your ability to speak and write in academic English. It has tasks like reading aloud, repeating sentences, describing pictures, retelling lectures, and answering short questions. AI gives you a score based on how well you speak, how well you pronounce words, and how well you understand the content. You have to speak into a microphone, and your answers are recorded.
You can greatly enhance your speaking skills by reading aloud and recording your sessions. Aim for clarity while pronouncing the words, and try to improve your pace. Intonation and sentence flow need to vary, as monotony will negatively affect your score. Consistent practice of speaking will yield positive results regarding your fluency.
5. Improve Your Writing with Templates
The PTE Academic Writing test is a computer-based test that checks how well you can write in English. It is a combined section with the Speaking test that lasts between 54 and 67 minutes. There are two main types of questions in the writing section: "Summarise Written Text" tests both your reading and writing skills, while "Write Essay" tests your writing skills, such as how well you can organise your thoughts, give supporting details, and use standard written English.
During the exam, students often spend too much time getting the structure right. Simple templates can prevent time waste and keep you organised. For example, plan your essay as an introductory section, two body parts, and a closing section. This is one of the most useful PTE preparation tips that students in Abu Dhabi use to achieve a good score.
6. Strengthen Reading Skills with Daily Practice
The PTE reading test has 13 to 18 questions in five different types. It lasts 30 to 30 minutes and tests your ability to understand and interpret written English. It has a single timer for all the questions, so it's very important to manage your time well. There are different types of questions on the test, like fill-in-the-blank, multiple-choice (with one or more answers), and re-ordering paragraphs. One task, "Reading and Writing: Fill in the blanks," also helps with writing skills.
One effective method of studying is to read English newspapers, journals, and online articles regularly. It helps you to improve your general comprehension and vocabulary. Moreover, you can use the skimming and scanning methods to respond to questions that ask you to fetch specific details from the reading passage. Consistent reading habits will improve your precision and, consequently, your score positively.
7. Sharpen Listening Skills with Audio Practice
The PTE Listening test is the third part of the PTE test and takes about 30 to 43 minutes to finish. It tests your ability to understand spoken English by making you listen to audio or video clips only once and then answer one of eight different types of questions. You can write down notes on an erasable notepad while you watch the clips. The section tests both listening and writing skills. For example, writing skills include typing sentences from dictation.
Using podcasts, news broadcasts, and online lectures is very useful. After you listen to something, write a summary in your own words. This improves retention and prepares you for tasks like summarising spoken text in the exam. Additionally, listening practice improves concentration and accuracy.
8. Use Technology and Online Tools
Since the PTE is computer-based, practising with online tools and resources is valuable. Users can find numerous websites and applications that host practice tests, grammar exercises, or tools for analysing a user's pronunciation.
For Abu Dhabi students, digital study materials can be time-saving and offer preparation flexibility. Practising at home or during breaks streamlines the learning process for online materials. Simulation of the actual testing environment is also offered on online platforms, which is excellent for building confidence to take the test.
9. Join a Professional PTE Coaching Institute in Abu Dhabi
Self-study is vital, but the PTE coaching structure in Abu Dhabi helps streamline and focus your preparation. Specialised training centres, like Time Training Center, offer expert coaching, personalised feedback, and focused exam strategies for the PTE. Enrolling in the PTE Course will also give you group practice, which fosters observational learning.
10. Stay Calm and Confident on Exam Day
Stress can negatively impact performance. While testing in the UAE, many students feel nervous when it comes time for the speaking section and when time is about to run out. In the case of students, anxiety can diminish attention, which can undermine precision.
To counter feelings of anxiety, practice relaxation techniques, especially deep breathing, before the exam. Try to reach the test center well before the exam so that you won’t feel rushed. Confidence is the result of preparation, so try to calm down, rely on what you have practised, and do your best.
PTE Exam Strategies for UAE Test-Takers
The PTE exam, like all other exams, has some hidden test-taking strategies. Here are some strategies that are specific to people from the UAE.
Familiarise Yourself with the Scoring System: The PTE exam has automated scoring, so unlike the IELTS exam, you won’t have a human rater. Consistency and clarity are what will matter, not “sounding native.”
Mock Exams: Try to practice with a full-length test on a weekly basis. In Abu Dhabi, many centers provide mock exams that replicate the test environment.
Balancing Sections: Don’t hone in exclusively on your areas of comfort. For instance, speaking is often seen as a strength, but poor scores in writing can significantly impact your overall score.
FAQs
1. How long can I expect to prepare for the PTE exam in Abu Dhabi?
Most students require, on average, 4 to 6 weeks of focused study to prepare. However, beginners with lower proficiency in English may require 3 months or more.
2. Is PTE easier than IELTS for students in the UAE?
For many students in the UAE, particularly those in Abu Dhabi, the PTE is easier due to the computer-based exam format and more straightforward scoring system. Of course, this still depends on how you prepare for the exam.
3. Can you take the PTE exam in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, you can. There are multiple PTE test centers in Abu Dhabi, which are also licensed by the PTE. They provide students and working professionals with flexible scheduling options.
4. What is the PTE Academic passing score?
The PTE score that most universities accept is within the range of 55 to 65. The more competitive universities will require you to score higher, with 75 being the minimum. This is also dependent on the course you plan to take and which country you are in.
5. Where can I find PTE training in Abu Dhabi?
You can take the PTE course in Abu Dhabi offered by Time Training Centre. There, you will be assisted by highly skilled educators who will provide you with an individual approach to the training to help you reach your desired score.
+971 2 6713828
