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How to Improve Scores & Avoid Retakes
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a computer-based English language proficiency exam designed to assess the reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills of non-native English speakers. The exam is prevalent across universities, colleges, and governments worldwide as proof of English language proficiency.
As with any exam, there are some test-taking strategies to minimise retakes and optimise your PTE exam fees. Let’s discuss the PTE exam fee and some test-taking strategies to help you optimise your score.
PTE Exam Fee
The PTE exam fee in Australia varies depending on the test centre and the exam date. As of March 2023, the standard PTE-Academic exam fee is AUD 415. However, it may differ for other PTE exams such as PTE-General, PTE-Young Learners, and PTE Home.
PTE-Academic also offers add-on services such as expedited scores, rescores, and additional score reports. These services come at an additional cost, and you must check the PTE website for the latest fees.
It’s important to note that the PTE exam fee is non-refundable, so you must only book your exam when you’re fully prepared. You can book the PTE-Academic exam online and make payments using a credit card or a PayPal account.
Test-Taking Strategies to Optimise Your PTE Scores
Familiarise yourself with the exam format:
Familiarising yourself with the exam format is an important test-taking strategy for the PTE exam. The exam has three main sections of the exam, mainly – speaking and writing, reading, and listening. It’s essential to know what to expect in each exam section, with a different format and set of instructions.
You can familiarise yourself with the exam format to confidently approach each area and avoid surprises on exam day. You can find free practice materials and sample questions on the official PTE website to help you prepare and familiarise yourself with the exam format.
Focus on your weaknesses:
Focusing on your weaknesses is another essential test-taking strategy for the PTE exam. Taking a practice test can help you identify areas where you need to improve, such as the speaking, listening, or writing sections. By focusing on your weaknesses, you can develop your skills and improve your score.
For example, if you struggle with the speaking area, you can practice speaking English with a native speaker or a language partner. By focusing on your weaknesses, you can optimise your exam fee by avoiding retakes and achieving a higher score.
Manage your time wisely:
Managing your time is another critical test-taking strategy for the PTE exam. Each exam section has a strict time limit, and it’s vital to manage your time effectively to complete all the tasks within the allotted time. You can practice time management by taking timed practice tests and setting goals for each section.
You must pace yourself and avoid spending too much time on one question or task. By managing your time wisely, you can ensure completing all the tasks within the time limit and optimise your exam fee by avoiding retakes.
Use your resources wisely:
Using your resources wisely is another essential test-taking strategy for the PTE exam. You can use resources to help you prepare, such as online courses, study materials, and practice tests. It’s important to choose resources relevant to your needs and learning style. You can also use online forums or study groups to connect with other test-takers and share tips and strategies.
You can use your resources wisely by reading the instructions carefully and utilising any tools or features provided, such as the microphone or highlighter. Use your resources wisely to optimise your exam fee by achieving a higher score and avoiding retakes.
Read and listen carefully:
Reading and listening are essential test-taking strategies for the PTE exam. The exam includes tasks to read and listen to passages, instructions, and questions. It’s important to read and listen carefully to understand the assignment and provide an accurate response. You can practice reading and listening skills by reading English texts, listening to podcasts, or watching English-language movies or TV shows.
During the exam, focus on the task and avoid distractions such as noise or other test-takers. By reading and listening carefully, you can optimise your exam fee by providing accurate responses and avoiding retakes.
Speak confidently
Speaking is another essential test-taking strategy for the PTE exam. The speaking section of the exam requires you to speak English fluently and accurately. It’s substantial to communicate clearly and confidently to convey your message effectively. You can practice your speaking skills by speaking English with a native speaker or a language partner or by recording yourself speaking and listening to your voice.
It’s essential to talk clearly and confidently during the exam, even if you make a mistake. Speak confidently to optimise your exam fee by providing accurate and effective responses and avoiding retakes.
Avoid guessing
Avoiding guessing is another important test-taking strategy for the PTE exam. The exam penalises incorrect answers, and guessing can lower your score. It’s noteworthy to approach each task with a plan and attempt to answer the question to the best of your ability. If you’re unsure of the answer, you can use the process of elimination or try to make an educated guess based on the context.
However, avoid randomly guessing, as this can significantly impact your score. By avoiding guessing, you can optimise your exam fee by providing accurate responses and avoiding penalties that may require you to retake the exam.
Conclusion
Optimising your PTE exam fee requires a combination of test-taking strategies, including familiarising yourself with the exam format, focusing on your weaknesses, etc. By implementing these strategies, you can improve your score and avoid retakes, optimising your exam fee. To learn more about test-taking techniques, OET test fees, or PTE Test fees, speak to expert mentors at English Wise today!