PTE Exam Day Tips 2026: What to Expect at the Test Centre

Knowing what to expect on PTE exam day reduces anxiety and helps you perform at your best. This guide covers everything from what ID to bring, the check-in process, test centre equipment, break policy, and common mistakes to avoid. Preparation does not end with content study — understanding the logistics of test day is equally important.

What to Bring to the Test Centre

REQUIRED: Valid passport (original). This is the ONLY accepted ID for PTE Academic. No driving licence, no Aadhaar card, no PAN card — passport only. The name on your passport must match the name used during Pearson registration exactly.

Do NOT bring: Mobile phones, watches (including smartwatches), wallets, bags, books, notes, food, or drinks into the testing room. All personal belongings must be stored in a locker provided at the test centre. You will be given a notepad (or erasable board) and pen at the centre.

Arrival & Check-In Process

Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled time. The check-in process includes: identity verification (passport check), photograph taken (used for your score report), digital signature, palm vein scan (biometric), and locker assignment for personal belongings. Late arrivals may be denied entry with no refund.

After check-in, you are escorted to your assigned computer cubicle. The test administrator will help you put on the headset and verify the microphone is working. You will have a brief opportunity to adjust volume levels before the test begins.

Test Centre Setup & Equipment

Each test taker has an individual cubicle with a computer, standard keyboard, mouse, and noise-reducing headset with an integrated microphone. Cubicles have partial dividers for privacy but you may hear other test takers speaking during their Speaking section — this is normal. Focus on your own microphone and ignore ambient sounds.

During the Test — Section by Section

Part 1: Speaking & Writing (54-67 min): You start with a Personal Introduction (not scored — just recorded for institutions). Then Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Describe Image, Re-tell Lecture, Answer Short Question, Summarize Written Text, and Write Essay. This is the longest and most demanding section — pace yourself.

Optional Break (10 min): After Part 1, you may take an optional 10-minute break. The timer counts down on screen — return to your seat before it expires.

Part 2: Reading (29-30 min): All 5 item types. No break after Reading.

Part 3: Listening (30-43 min): 8 item types. Ends with Write from Dictation — your most important task. Stay alert and focused until the very end.

Break Policy

There is one optional 10-minute break between Reading and Listening (after Speaking & Writing and Reading are completed). If you choose to take the break, you must go through security screening again when returning. Use the break to: use the restroom, drink water, stretch, and reset mentally for Listening.

There is no break between Speaking & Writing and Reading. Prepare for approximately 80-90 minutes of continuous testing before the break opportunity.

Exam Day Mistakes to Avoid

1. Arriving late: Test centres have strict schedules. 15 minutes late = potential denial.

2. Wrong ID: Only a valid passport is accepted. No other identification works.

3. Speaking too softly: The microphone needs clear audio. Speak at normal conversational volume.

4. Getting distracted by others: Other test takers may be speaking aloud during their Speaking section while you are on Reading or Listening. Stay focused on your screen and headset.

5. Running out of energy for WFD: WFD comes at the very end of the test (2 hours in). If you are mentally exhausted, your WFD accuracy drops. Pace your energy throughout the test and take the optional break.

The Day Before — Preparation Tips

Do: Get 7-8 hours of sleep, eat a balanced meal, review your spelling hitlist briefly, check your passport and test centre address, plan your route to arrive 30 minutes early.

Do not: Cram intensively (you will not learn new skills in 12 hours), take a mock test (adds unnecessary stress), stay up late, or try new preparation strategies.

EEC Exam Day Guidance

EEC's coaching programme includes exam day orientation — covering logistics, stress management, and test-day strategy. Students participate in full-length mock tests under simulated test conditions (headset, timed sections, no breaks during Speaking & Writing) to prepare for the real experience.

“Exam day nerves are the number one reason students score below their practice test average. A consistent pre-exam routine eliminates anxiety and lets your preparation shine through.”

— EEC PTE Exam Coach, Test Day Specialist

Related Resources & Further Reading

Ready to begin? Register for a free demo class. PTE is also accepted for study in New Zealand. Planning Canada? See our study in Canada options. Read our PTE Academic complete guide. Read our PTE fee structure in India. Read our PTE Academic vs PTE Core. Read our PTE scores for Australia PR. Read our PTE vs IELTS comparison. Read our PTE preparation tips for 79+. Also explore our IELTS complete guide. Also explore our IELTS vs PTE comparison. Also explore our IELTS Band 7 tips. Visit EEC Ahmedabad or EEC Surat for in-person guidance. Use our IELTS vs PTE comparison page for a side-by-side breakdown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Exam day questions from PTE students: