PTE Academic in Pakistan 2026: Fee, Test Centres and Which Visas Accept It
Many Pakistani students planning a study visa now compare IELTS with PTE Academic, a fully computer-based English test known for fast results. If a university or embassy accepts it, PTE can save you weeks. Here is what to know before you book.
What PTE Academic is
PTE Academic is run by Pearson and tests reading, writing, listening and speaking in one sitting at a computer. Your speaking is recorded and scored by software rather than a live examiner. Results usually arrive within one to two working days, which is much quicker than most IELTS sittings.
Approximate fee in Pakistan
Published guides put the PTE Academic fee in Pakistan at roughly Rs 32,000 to Rs 37,000, close to IELTS at around Rs 35,000 to Rs 40,000. Duolingo is cheaper at about US$59. Exact prices depend on the exchange rate, the test type and the centre, so always confirm the current fee on Pearson's booking page before you pay.
Where you can sit the test
PTE is taken only at computer-based test centres, never on paper. Islamabad has had a Pearson test centre since 2021, and some guides also list Lahore and Karachi. Seats can fill quickly in peak intake months, so check availability early. For comparison, IELTS is offered by the British Council and IDP in several Pakistani cities. See our guide to the IELTS fee in Pakistan for budgeting.
Which visas accept PTE
- UK: only the PTE Academic UKVI version counts as an approved English test for a student visa, and your university sets its own score. Read our notes on the UK Graduate Route too.
- Australia: PTE Academic is accepted for student visas, and the test must be taken in person at a centre.
- Canada: PTE is accepted for many study and immigration purposes, but the old Student Direct Stream no longer exists, so check your college and IRCC.
- Europe: many universities accept PTE, but some prefer IELTS or their own tests. Check the programme page, for example for Italy student visas.
Tests that are fine for admission are not always fine for the visa itself, so confirm both the university and the embassy requirement.
PTE, IELTS or Duolingo?
Choose PTE if you are comfortable typing and speaking to a microphone and want quick results. Choose IELTS if you prefer a human speaking examiner or your target institution lists only IELTS. Duolingo can be a cheap option for admission at institutions that accept it, but it is rarely enough on its own for a visa. Our visa services team can check which test fits your country and course.
Practical tips
Book early, carry the same ID used in your booking, and practise typing and the speaking templates under timed conditions. Send score reports directly to your universities during booking where possible. A retake is possible, but each attempt costs a full fee.
Hijrat guides students from our Aabpara office in Islamabad on test choice, admissions and student visa files — serving Rawalpindi and overseas Pakistanis. Fees always itemised before you pay.
Test fees, centres and visa English-test requirements change frequently and decisions rest with each test provider, university and government. This article is general information, not legal advice; always verify with Pearson, your institution and the relevant embassy before booking.