Joseph Rospars, vice-president, Pearson Language Tests, was in Chennai recently to promote the English language test which has given a tough competition to the legendary TOEFL and IELTS. Excerpts from the interview.
Tell us more about the Pearson Test of English (PTE)
Six years ago, we realised the need for a English language test. Also, the growth in the language test market inspired us to formulate something new. And the result was PTE. It was launched in September 2009.
How is the response in India?
India is our second global market, next to China. Within a year, we were able to tie-up with 150 partners and open 15 centres across India.
What are its salient features?
Every procedure of the test has been made digital and the results are given in two days. Also, you can send the scores to universities free of cost. Apart from the results, we also give additional information like the candidate’s fluency, pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary.
How do I register for the test?
You can register at www.pearsonpte.com, even a day before the test. You can take it up on any day except Sunday.
What is the test format?
The questions are different for each individual. It tests four skills of an individual — reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
How many universities accept it?
Around 2,000 university programmes (only for specific courses) have approved it. Apart from this, Stanford University, Harvard Business School and many other B-schools in the US and various engineering colleges in the UK and US have also accepted it.
What is the fee?
It’s $160 (approximately Rs 7,107)
How different is it from others?
One major aspect is time. With Pearson, you can finish the entire registration, test and sending results in just five days. Whereas it takes weeks with other tests. Also, you can forward as many as scorecards to the universities for free. IELTS gives you first five scorecards free, and in TOEFL its just four. Pearson allows you to register even one day before the test, for free.
Are there any learning material available?
Yes, you can log on to www.pearsonpte.com for test materials. There’s also a free practice test you can take.
-- ammu@expressbuzz.com