Student Life
Students studying abroad face English proficiency as their first challenge.
5 mins read
Posted: 2025-09-20
For students planning to study abroad this year, one of the first challenges is proving English language proficiency. Universities and immigration authorities need to ensure you can thrive in an English-speaking environment — and that's where language tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE come in. Over the past few years, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) has become a top choice for many students thanks to its convenience, fairness, and quick results.
But here's the big question: Which countries will accept PTE in 2025-2026? If you're considering PTE for your study abroad journey, this detailed guide will help you understand where your PTE score is valid, which universities recognize it, and how to prepare for the exam effectively.
Before we dive into the list of countries, let's look at why PTE has gained so much popularity:
Computer-Based Test: Unlike paper-based exams, PTE is 100% computer-based, including the speaking section. This ensures a smooth, standardized experience for all test-takers.
AI-Based Scoring: Human bias is removed from the equation. Your score is evaluated by AI technology, making it completely objective.
Fast Results: Most students receive their scores within 24-48 hours, which is much faster compared to other exams.
Global Acceptance: More than 3,500 universities, colleges, and professional associations across the globe accept PTE Academic.
Flexible Dates: PTE is offered almost every day of the year in over 400 test centers worldwide.
If you value speed, fairness, and flexibility, PTE is definitely worth considering.
The acceptance of PTE continues to grow worldwide. Here's an updated list of major study-abroad destinations where you can use your PTE Academic scores for admission and visa applications.
Australia was one of the first countries to fully adopt PTE Academic for student visas. In 2025-2026, PTE continues to be widely accepted by:
The Department of Home Affairs for all student visa and migration applications.
Almost every Australian university, including top institutions such as:
University of Melbourne
Australian National University (ANU)
University of Sydney
Monash University
University of Queensland
PTE is a top choice for students targeting Australia because of its quick results, which speed up the visa process.
Canada has seen a significant rise in PTE acceptance over the past few years. By 2025-2026, many Canadian institutions officially recognize PTE Academic for admissions, including:
University of British Columbia (UBC)
McGill University
York University
University of Calgary
Fanshawe College and many other public colleges
Bonus: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) now accepts PTE Core for immigration pathways, which makes PTE a great option for students planning to settle in Canada after graduation.
PTE is now accepted by over 1,200 universities and colleges in the U.S. Whether you are applying for undergraduate or graduate programs, you can submit PTE scores to institutions like:
Harvard Business School
Yale University
Columbia University
NYU Stern School of Business
University of Illinois
The U.S. remains one of the most popular destinations for international students, and PTE offers a stress-free way to meet language requirements.
The UK government's UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department accepts PTE for student visa applications under the Student route. Top universities accepting PTE include:
University of Oxford
University of Cambridge
University College London (UCL)
University of Manchester
University of Edinburgh
The quick turnaround time for PTE results is a big advantage when applying to UK universities with tight deadlines.
All eight universities in New Zealand, including University of Auckland and University of Otago, accept PTE Academic. The New Zealand Immigration Authority also recognizes PTE for student visa and work visa applications, making it ideal for students who want to work part-time or stay after their studies.
Ireland has grown in popularity as a study-abroad destination thanks to its post-study work visa opportunities and strong tech industry. PTE is accepted by many Irish universities including:
Trinity College Dublin
University College Dublin (UCD)
National University of Ireland, Galway
Dublin City University
Beyond these top destinations, PTE is also accepted in several other countries such as:
Germany
France
Spain
Singapore
UAE
South Africa
This growing list makes PTE one of the most versatile choices for students with diverse study abroad plans.
Different universities have different minimum score requirements. Here's a general idea:
Undergraduate programs: Usually require an overall score of 50-58.
Postgraduate programs: Often require 60-65.
Highly competitive programs: May ask for 79+ overall.
Always check the specific requirement of your chosen university before booking the test.
Scoring well in PTE is not just about knowing English — it's about being familiar with the test format and practicing regularly. Here are some preparation strategies:
PTE has four sections: Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. Each has unique question types such as Read Aloud, Describe Image, and Re-tell Lecture. Get familiar with the structure to avoid surprises on test day.
Mock tests simulate real exam conditions and help you improve time management. They also highlight your weak areas, so you know where to focus.
Rather than just taking full tests, practice question types individually to build confidence in each section.
For example, in speaking tasks, focus on clarity and fluency instead of perfection. In reading tasks, use skimming and scanning techniques.
After each mock test, carefully review your answers. Work on weak areas and repeat until you achieve consistency.
One of the most trusted platforms for PTE preparation is Gurully, which offers:
Free PTE mock test with instant scoring
Question-wise practice for every task type
AI-powered evaluation that simulates real exam conditions
Detailed feedback to help you improve
You can start practicing for the PTE mock test today for free and boost your chances of achieving your desired score.
In 2025-2026, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) will be more widely accepted than ever before. Whether your goal is to study in Australia, Canada, USA, UK, New Zealand, or Ireland, your PTE score can open doors to world-class universities and fast-track your student visa process.
Preparing early is key — and with free online resources like Gurully, you can practice as much as you need to build confidence. Take mock tests, learn the strategies, and aim high — your dream university is within reach!
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