Preparing for the PTE Speaking Test in 2025? Whether you’re aiming for a student visa, PR, or professional registration, mastering this section is crucial for achieving a competitive score. The PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic) has become one of the most trusted English proficiency exams worldwide. With AI scoring and digital test formats constantly improving, understanding the latest PTE Speaking Test format can make a huge difference in your preparation strategy.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the updated PTE Speaking format for 2025, explain each task in detail, and show how free mock tests can help you boost your confidence and score higher.

Overview of the PTE Speaking Test

The PTE Speaking Test is the first section of the overall “Speaking & Writing” module. It evaluates your spoken English skills, including pronunciation, fluency, clarity, and grammatical accuracy.

• Duration: 30–35 minutes

• Tasks: 5 main speaking tasks (after a short introduction)

• Scoring: AI-based evaluation  completely unbiased and consistent

The tasks are designed to simulate real-life communication, such as summarizing spoken texts, describing images, and answering short questions  the kind of language skills universities and employers expect from non-native English speakers.

The Updated PTE Speaking Test Format (2025)

In 2025, the PTE Academic test continues to emphasize fluency, pronunciation, and content accuracy. While the task types remain mostly the same, the AI scoring algorithm has been refined for better accuracy and fairness. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll face in the PTE Speaking Test:

Task 1: Personal Introduction (Not Scored)

• Time: 30 seconds to prepare, 30 seconds to record.

• This is your opportunity to introduce yourself. It’s not marked, but it helps you get comfortable with the microphone and speaking pace.

• Tip: Speak naturally and confidently  this is your warm-up round.

Task 2: Read Aloud

• Skills Tested: Reading and Speaking

• What You Do: Read a short text displayed on the screen aloud.

• Scoring: Based on pronunciation, fluency, and how accurately you speak.

• Tip: Practice reading naturally  avoid sounding robotic. Take short pauses at punctuation marks.

Example:

“Artificial Intelligence is transforming the way we communicate and learn.”

Task 3: Repeat Sentence

• Skills Tested: Listening and Speaking

• What You Do: Listen to a sentence and repeat it exactly as you heard it.

• Challenge: You only hear it once!

• Tip: Focus on capturing the rhythm and tone of the speaker instead of memorizing every word.

Pro Tip: Practicing with a free mock test helps you develop short-term memory and fluency through repeated listening exercises.

Task 4: Describe Image

• Skills Tested: Speaking

• What You Do: You’ll see an image (graph, chart, map, or picture) and describe it in 40 seconds.

• Scoring: Based on content, fluency, and pronunciation.

• Tip: Use structured responses: introduction → main trend → comparison → conclusion.

Example structure:

“The bar chart shows… The highest value is… In contrast, the lowest point is… Overall, the trend suggests…”

Practice Idea: Use AI-based free mock tests to get instant feedback on your fluency and structure.

Task 5: Retell Lecture

• Skills Tested: Listening and Speaking

• What You Do: Listen to a short lecture (audio or video) and summarize the main points in your own words.

• Tip: Take quick notes while listening  note down keywords, numbers, and tone.

• Scoring: Based on how well you capture and organize key ideas.

Example approach:

“The lecture discussed the impact of global warming, highlighting the rise in temperature and its effect on marine life…”

Task 6: Answer Short Question

• Skills Tested: Listening and Speaking

• What You Do: You’ll hear a simple question and must respond with a one- or two-word answer.

• Example:

Q: What device do you use to measure time?
A: A clock.

Tip: Focus on pronunciation and clarity  every second counts.

Scoring System for PTE Speaking Test

The AI scoring system is one of the key features that make PTE reliable. Unlike human examiners, the system evaluates your speaking performance objectively.

Your PTE Speaking Test score is based on:

1. Content Accuracy – Did you include key points correctly?

2. Oral Fluency – Was your speech smooth, natural, and without long pauses?

3. Pronunciation – Did your words sound clear and understandable to native listeners?

Each task contributes differently to your total speaking score. For example, “Read Aloud” and “Repeat Sentence” carry more weight than “Answer Short Question.”

Common Challenges in the PTE Speaking Test

Many test-takers face difficulties such as:

• Speaking too fast or too slow

• Hesitating between sentences

• Mispronouncing unfamiliar words

• Missing key details in “Retell Lecture”

The best way to overcome these issues is consistent practice  ideally with AI-powered free mock tests that mimic the real exam environment.

How Free Mock Tests Help You Prepare for PTE Speaking

Using a free mock test for the PTE Speaking section is one of the smartest ways to prepare. Here’s why:

Real Test Experience

Mock tests simulate the real PTE interface and timing. You’ll get used to managing your pace and responding within limited time frames.

AI Scoring Feedback

Modern mock tests use AI to analyze your pronunciation, fluency, and coherence  giving you instant feedback similar to the official PTE scoring system.

Identifying Weak Areas

With detailed score breakdowns, you’ll know exactly where you need improvement (like pronunciation or timing).

Building Confidence

Regular practice reduces exam-day anxiety and helps you speak naturally during the test.

Tips to Score High in PTE Speaking Test

Here are some actionable tips to boost your performance:

1. Speak Clearly and Confidently – Avoid mumbling; maintain steady volume.

2. Keep Natural Pace – Don’t rush; the AI system detects unnatural rhythm.

3. Use Templates Smartly – Especially for “Describe Image” and “Retell Lecture.”

4. Practice Daily – Even 15–20 minutes daily can make a huge difference.

5. Record and Listen – Self-review helps you recognize pronunciation errors.

6. Take Multiple Mock Tests – Each attempt sharpens your speaking strategy.

What’s New for PTE Speaking in 2025

Pearson’s 2025 update brings refined AI evaluation models, ensuring even more accurate results.
Key highlights include:

• Improved recognition of global accents (Indian, Filipino, African, etc.)

• Better fluency tracking with advanced speech analytics

• Smarter feedback reports for personalized learning

This means your PTE Speaking Test results in 2025 will be more precise and aligned with real-world English proficiency expectations.

Final Thoughts

The PTE Speaking Test is not just about perfect English  it’s about clear communication, confidence, and consistency. Understanding the format and scoring pattern is the first step to success. Combine that with regular practice through a free mock test, and you’ll see steady improvement in your pronunciation, fluency, and overall performance.

Remember, preparation is the bridge between your current skill level and your desired score. So, start your free PTE speaking mock test today, track your progress, and step confidently into your exam.