PTE Test in Saudi Arabia

Advantages and Disadvantages of the PTE Test in Saudi Arabia? An analysis of the costs, challenges, and opportunities related to the test

The PTE test is also known as the Pearson Academic Test, abbreviated as Pearson Test of English. It is a globally recognized English language test that measures your listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills in an academic context.

If you're looking to study or work abroad, you might need to take the PTE test to prove your English proficiency level and obtain the required visa or acceptance.

There are many advantages to the Pearson PTE test, as well as some disadvantages, which we will discuss below. You should compare these points with your needs, goals, and budget before choosing the right test for you. It's also essential to prepare well for the test and aim for the best possible score.

Advantages of Pearson PTE Test

There are numerous advantages to the PTE test compared to other language tests, such as:

• Quick Results: You can get the PTE test results within just 48 hours, while other tests like IELTS or TOEFL might take weeks or even months.
• Ease of Booking: You can book an appointment for the PTE test online anytime and anywhere, whereas there might be limitations on the availability of dates and venues for other tests.
• Accurate Evaluation: The PTE test is entirely assessed by a neutral and objective artificial intelligence system. Whereas other tests might have human interference that might affect the evaluation. This ensures fairness and transparency in the evaluation, and your accent or cultural background is not held against you.
  

Therefore, if you want to prove your English skills quickly, easily, and confidently, the PTE test is a good choice for you.

Disadvantages of Pearson PTE Test

The following points are considered disadvantages of the Pearson test for some English language learners:

• Cost: The price of the PTE test in Saudi Arabia is 900 Saudi Riyals, which is relatively high compared to other tests like IELTS (800 Saudi Riyals) or TOEFL (650 Saudi Riyals). This might pose a financial challenge for some candidates, especially if they need to retake the test.
• Difficulty: The PTE test is considered a comprehensive and challenging test for all English language skills. It requires concentration, speed, and precision when answering the questions. It also demands good computer, headphone, and microphone handling skills. This could be a challenge for some candidates, especially if they are not accustomed to this testing method.
• Acceptance: Although the PTE test is globally recognized, it's still not accepted by some universities, companies, or countries that prefer other tests like IELTS or TOEFL. This might limit your options and opportunities for getting the acceptance, visa, or job you desire.

How to prepare for the PTE exam in Saudi Arabia? Tips and strategies to improve your English skills

The Pearson PTE test consists of three main parts: Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening.

Each section contains various types of questions that assess your English language skills in academic and real-life situations. Therefore, if you want to achieve a high score and reach your goals, you should prepare well for the PTE test.

Here are some tips and strategies you can follow to prepare for the PTE exam in Saudi Arabia:

1. Understand the test format and curriculum: Before you start studying, familiarize yourself with what the Pearson PTE test covers in terms of sections, questions, duration, and evaluation method.
2. Identify your goal and level: After understanding the PTE requirements, determine the score you aim to achieve based on the requirements of the university, company, or country you wish to join. Also, assess your current English proficiency and identify your strengths and weaknesses. You can use some free resources to conduct a diagnostic test to understand your level in each skill.
3. Choose the right study materials: Numerous resources are available online or in libraries for PTE preparation. You should select those that suit your level, objectives, and learning style. The chosen materials should offer explanations, examples, questions, and answers for all parts and question types in the PTE test. It's also preferable if they include tips and strategies to boost your chances of success.

Consistent and methodological studying is recommended. To enhance your English skills and familiarize yourself with the nature of the questions and required answers, you can use various study resources, such as: 

Official preparation materials:

PTE offers official prep materials featuring training questions, tips, guidelines, and sample answers. You can purchase these or get some for free from the official PTE website. Among these resources are:

• PTE Academic Testbuilder: A book containing four full practice tests with solutions and explanations.
• The Official Guide to PTE Academic: A book with over 200 practice questions along with sample answer analyses.
• PTE Academic Practice Tests Plus: A book containing three full practice tests with solutions and explanations.
• PTE Academic Online Practice Test: An online practice test that simulates the actual exam conditions with the same number and type of questions. 
  

Unofficial resources:

In addition to the official preparation materials, you can use unofficial resources to enhance your English skills and familiarize yourself with question and answer formats. Some of these resources include:

• Websites, blogs, and YouTube channels: Search online for sites, blogs, and channels that provide PTE tips, strategies, practice questions, and model answers.
• English books, magazines, newspapers, and novels: Read various texts in English to expand your vocabulary and understand grammar and styles. Try to choose texts related to academic or real-life topics that might appear in the test.
• English apps, software, and games: Use various English language apps, software, and games to challenge yourself and receive feedback and evaluations. Opt for sites, apps, or games that require speaking, writing, reading, or listening in English.

Train Regularly and Seriously

Reading and memorizing information is not enough. You must also apply it in situations similar to the exam. You need to train yourself to answer questions in a timed setting, using a computer, headphones, and a microphone.

You also have to train yourself to handle pressure, stress, and to maintain focus. You can use some practice tests to measure your progress and identify areas for improvement.

Ask Others for Help

Do not try to do everything by yourself. Ask others for help if you need it. You can join groups or forums online to communicate with other students preparing for the PTE test or those who have already taken it.

You can exchange information, experiences, advice, and encouragement with them. You can also get evaluations, corrections, or guidance from teachers or experts in the Pearson PTE test.

How to book a PTE test appointment in Saudi Arabia? A step-by-step guide to completing the booking process online:

The Pearson PTE test is conducted online or at testing centers approved by Pearson, the test maker.

If you want to book a PTE test appointment in Saudi Arabia, follow these steps:

• You need to create an account and enter your personal details, passport, and the purpose of the test. A PTE ID number will be sent to your email. You can choose a suitable center and appointment from the accredited centers in Saudi Arabia. The PTE test in Saudi Arabia costs 900 Saudi Riyals.
• Create an account on the official PTE website. Enter your personal details, passport, and the purpose of the test. A PTE ID number will be sent to your email.
• Log in to your account and click on 'Schedule Exam'. A list of available centers in Saudi Arabia and available test dates will appear. You can filter results by city, date, or time.
• Choose the appropriate center and date, then click on 'Next'. A summary of your booking details and the test fee will appear.
• Enter your credit or debit card information and click on 'Pay Now'. The amount will be deducted from your account, and you will receive a confirmation email.
• Print your booking confirmation and bring it along with your passport on the test day.
  

These are the steps to book a PTE test appointment in Saudi Arabia. You must book the appointment at least 48 hours before the test date. Make sure to review the booking, cancellation, and change policies.

Best PTE Testing Centers in Saudi Arabia: Locations, Prices, and Facilities

If you wish to take the PTE test in Saudi Arabia, you should choose a suitable accredited testing center. There are several PTE testing centers in Saudi Arabia, located in different cities, each varying in price and facilities offered.

Here's some information about the best PTE testing centers in Saudi Arabia: 

• Topsys (Riyadh - M/F Candidates): Located in the capital, Riyadh, this center accepts male and female candidates. It offers modern computers, high-quality headphones, and microphones. The center also provides Wi-Fi, water, tea, and coffee for candidates. The test fee at this center is 900 Saudi Riyals.

• Pearson Professional Centers - Jeddah: Located in Jeddah, this is one of the professional centers belonging to Pearson, the PTE test maker. It provides a controlled, secure, and professional testing environment. The center also offers reliable computers, clean headphones, and microphones. The test fee at this center is 900 Saudi Riyals. 

• Pearson Professional Centers - Al Khobar: Located in Al Khobar, it's also one of the professional centers under Pearson. The center provides the same quality and service as the Jeddah center. The test fee at this center is 900 Saudi Riyals. 

These are some of the best PTE test centers in Saudi Arabia. You can book an appointment for the test online or by phone. You need to make sure to choose the appropriate test location, date, and time for you, and bring a valid passport as official identification.

You should attend the test at the specified center and time. You must bring a valid passport and your booking confirmation. You should adhere to the test terms and policies, such as:

You should register at the center an hour before the test time. The supervisor will ask you to show your passport and present your PTE ID number. They will take an instant photo of you and scan your finger. The supervisor will guide you to a waiting room until the test starts.

The supervisor will invite you to the test room, where you'll find a computer, headphones, and a microphone. The supervisor will explain how to use the computer, headphones, and microphone.

You will be asked to record your voice to ensure sound quality. You will also be asked to confirm your personal information on the computer and not use any materials, devices, or external assistance during the test.

You are also requested not to talk to anyone other than the supervisor.

After answering all the questions in the test, a message will appear confirming the end of the test. You can review your answers and make any changes before submitting them.

These are the steps you should follow to prepare and attend the PTE test in Saudi Arabia. You should remain confident, calm, and disciplined during the test. You should also focus on speed and accuracy in your answers.

What do you expect from a PTE test day in Saudi Arabia? Practical tips for dealing with pressure and stress:

PTE test day in Saudi Arabia is an important and pivotal day in your academic and professional life. It determines your future and opportunities for studying or working abroad.

Therefore, it's natural to feel pressure and stress before, during, and after the test. However, if you cannot control your emotions and calm your nerves, it may negatively affect your performance and results.

Here are some practical tips you can follow to deal with pressure and stress on the PTE test day in Saudi Arabia: 

Before the test:

Relax and sleep well; try to sleep enough hours before the test day and don't study up to late hours of the night. Also, try to relax and de-stress by doing entertaining activities, exercising, or meditating.

Make sure you have a valid passport, your booking confirmation, and any other documents you might need. Also, wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather conditions.

Plan your travel time and method: calculate the distance and time between your place of residence and the test center, considering factors like traffic or closures, etc. Choose a comfortable and safe mode of transport, whether by car, taxi, or public transport. Try to arrive at the center at least an hour before the test time.

During the test:

Listen carefully to the instructions provided by the supervisor and shown on the computer screen. Make sure to understand what you have to do for each part and question of the test. If you have any questions or complaints, don't hesitate to ask the supervisor for assistance.

Answer all questions in the allotted time, so plan your time wisely. Don't spend too long on one question and don't leave any question unanswered. Use the clock on the computer screen to keep track of your time.

Showcase your language skills in every part of the test. Try to be confident, natural, and clear in your answers. Don't get distracted by noise, interference, or minor mistakes.

After the test:

After the test ends, celebrate your efforts and small achievements. Go to a place you love or engage in activities that make you happy. 

How do you obtain PTE test results in Saudi Arabia? Duration and method of receiving the certificate

Typically, PTE test results are announced within 48 hours of taking the test. You can review your results online via your account on the official PTE website. You can also request to send a copy of your results to universities, companies, or countries you are applying to.

About two months after your results are posted, you receive a digital certificate from PTE. You can download this certificate from your account on the official PTE website. You can also share this certificate with the entities you wish to apply to. There is no paper certificate for the PTE test.

This is the duration and method for receiving PTE test results and certificates in Saudi Arabia. You should keep your account and data on the official PTE site safe, and ensure the accuracy and security of your results and certificate.

How can you benefit from PTE test results in Saudi Arabia?

Here are some ways you can benefit from the PTE test results in Saudi Arabia:

Studying Abroad

You can use the PTE test results and certificate to prove your English language proficiency to gain admission to universities or educational institutions abroad. 

The PTE test is recognized by thousands of universities and institutions in more than 50 countries worldwide. You can share your results and certificate with universities or institutions you wish to apply to online. You should check the required level and the valid duration of the PTE test results for each university or institution.

Working Abroad

You can use the PTE test results and certificate to prove your English language proficiency to obtain job opportunities or work visas abroad. The PTE test is accepted by some countries and companies as an official linguistic certificate.

You can share your results and certificate with countries or companies you wish to apply to online. You should check the required level and the valid duration of the PTE test results for each country or company.

These are some ways you can benefit from the PTE test results in Saudi Arabia. You should keep your account and data on the official PTE site safe, and ensure the accuracy and security of your results and certificate. You should also use your results and certificate legally and ethically.

How do you interpret the PTE test results in Saudi Arabia? An explanation of the meaning and level of scores

When you receive your PTE test results, you see your scores for each section and question of the test, in addition to an overall score for the English language.

Your scores represent your level in each English language skill and are a measure of your ability to communicate in English. 

Your scores range from 10 to 90.

10 is the lowest level, and 90 is the highest level. 

You can compare your scores with the CEFR classification to determine your level in English (an international system that classifies English language users according to their abilities in six levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2).

The higher your scores in the PTE test, the higher your level in the language according to the CEFR classification.

You can use the following table to know your level:

   

Pearson PTE Test Scores	English Language Levels according to CEFR	Description
10_18	A1	Beginner (Very weak language skills)
19_29	A2	Pre-Intermediate (Weak language skills)
30_42	B1	Intermediate (intermediate language skills)
43_58	B2	Upper-intermediate (Good language skills)
59_75	C1	Advanced (Excellent language skills)
76_90	C2	Proficient (Exceptionally excellent language skills)

 

How do you equate PTE test results with other tests like IELTS or TOEFL?

There is no official conversion between the results of the PTE test and the TOEFL and IELTS tests, because each test has different content, format, and assessment criteria. 

However, one can use some approximate tables that compare the scores of the PTE test with other tests, based on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

The difference between the IELTS and PTE and TOEFL assessments 

This table gives you a general idea of a comparative approximation of the Pearson PTE test results with the IELTS and TOEFL tests:

 

English Language Levels	PTE (Pearson Test of English) Score	IELTS Score	TOEFL Score
Beginner (A1)	10_18	1_2	0_31
Pre-Intermediate (A2)	19_29	2.5_3.5	32_34
Intermediate (B1)	30_42	4_5	35_60
Upper Intermediate (B2)	43_58	5-5_6.5	61_93
Advanced (C1)	59_75	7_8	94_109
Proficient (C2)	76_90	8.5_9	110_120