Sign in Subscribe

PTE UKVI vs PTE Academic: Which One Do You Need for Your UK Visa?

Last updated on 

The PTE Academic and PTE UKVI are essentially the same test. The only difference is that the PTE UKVI is recognized as a Secure English Language Test (SELT), so the UK government accepts it for visa purposes.

Table of Contents

  1. Key Differences Between PTE UKVI and PTE Academic
  2. Which Test Should You Choose for Your UK Visa?
  3. Conclusion

Key Differences Between PTE UKVI and PTE Academic

Test Format and Content

The tests are identical. You will see the same question types with the same frequency on both tests. The difference lies in who accepts each test.

Purpose and Recognition

  • PTE UKVI: This test is recognized by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for visa applications. Basically, the PTE UKVI is just the PTE Academic but after you complete the test, you receive a Unique Reference Number (URN) for your UK visa application.
  • PTE Academic: Primarily intended for academic purposes, such as university admissions. Accepted by many UK institutions, but not for visa applications.

Which Test Should You Choose for Your UK Visa?

First, you should check which tests are accepted by your destination university or universities. Then, check if these schools can issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). A CAS will satisfy the UK government's visa requirements. In short, if a school accepts the PTE Academic and can issue you a CAS, then you're good to go for your visa application!

However, if a school cannot issue you a CAS, then you will need to take the PTE UKVI in order to fulfill the UK government's Secure English Language Test (SELT) requirements. If you are applying for a work permit or long-term residency, then you will also need to take the UVKI.

Conclusion

Whether you should take the PTE UKVI or the PTE Academic depends on whether you are applying for a study visa or a different kind of visa as well as whether the school or schools you are applying to can issue you a CAS. (If you are also wondering about the PTE Core, we cover that in another article.)

To prepare for both the PTE Academic and the PTE UKVI, check out our PTE preparation materials!