Pearson plc Enhances English Testing with PTE Updates and New Express Test Launch
- Pearson plc updates its English language assessments with new tasks and a hybrid scoring model for improved accuracy.
- The company expands its global test center network to 517 locations, enhancing accessibility for candidates.
- Pearson launches the Pearson English Express Test, offering a flexible, secure online assessment with quick results.
Pearson Enhances English Language Testing to Meet Global Demand
In a significant move to bolster its English language assessment services, Pearson plc announces comprehensive updates to its Pearson Test of English (PTE) offerings, alongside the launch of the new Pearson English Express Test. Set to take effect in August 2025, these enhancements are designed to elevate the testing experience for learners and educational institutions alike. The PTE Academic will introduce two innovative speaking tasks—“Respond to a Situation” and “Summarize a Group Discussion”—which focus on real-world communication skills, reflecting Pearson's commitment to equipping test-takers with practical language abilities.
The updated PTE Academic will also feature a revamped scoring model that integrates advanced artificial intelligence with evaluations from human experts. This hybrid approach aims to enhance the accuracy of scoring by effectively identifying unoriginal responses, thus ensuring a fairer assessment process. In addition to these technical improvements, Pearson is committed to providing ample support for test-takers through tailored preparation resources, including scored practice tests and expert-led webinars. This holistic strategy not only prepares candidates for success but also strengthens the reliability of the PTE as a trusted assessment tool, endorsed by over 3,500 institutions worldwide.
Furthermore, Pearson expands its global test center network, which now includes 517 locations following the opening of 30 new centers across countries such as Canada, China, and Australia in 2025. This expansion significantly increases accessibility for candidates pursuing migration and study opportunities abroad. Complementing these efforts, the introduction of the Pearson English Express Test addresses the growing demand for a secure, convenient testing solution. This one-hour online assessment is designed for flexibility, allowing learners to take the test at their convenience and receive results within minutes, along with a certified report within 48 hours. Emphasizing security, Pearson employs identity verification and dual-camera monitoring to safeguard the integrity of the testing process.
As Sharon Hague, President of English Language Learning at Pearson, underscores, the company is dedicated to enhancing the testing experience for all stakeholders involved. These updates not only reflect Pearson's adaptability in a rapidly changing educational landscape but also affirm its ongoing commitment to providing high-quality language assessments that meet the needs of learners globally.
In light of these developments, Pearson reinforces its position as a leader in the English language learning sector, offering innovative solutions that cater to the evolving demands of students and educational institutions. The company’s strategic enhancements to the PTE and the introduction of the Express Test mark a significant advancement in the realm of language assessment, paving the way for more effective and accessible learning opportunities.