Exam Guide

How Long Is a PTE Score Valid and How to Send It to Universities

PTE scores are valid for 2 years, but sending them to universities has its own steps. Here is everything about validity, results, and sharing your scores.

By PTEAce Team · June 3, 2026 · 8 min read

Once you have your PTE result, two questions matter most: how long it stays valid, and how to get it to the universities or authorities that need it. This guide answers both clearly, plus when to expect your results and how to read them.

How Long Is a PTE Score Valid?

PTE Academic and PTE Core scores are valid for 2 years from the test date. After 2 years the result expires and you can no longer send it to institutions.

A few practical points:

• The clock starts on your test date, not the day you receive results.
• If your application process is slow, make sure your score will still be valid at the moment the institution or visa authority assesses it.
• For immigration, the score usually needs to be valid when you submit, but always confirm the specific rule for your program, since some have additional requirements.

When Do PTE Results Arrive?

PTE is known for fast results. Most test takers receive their scores within 48 hours of the exam, and sometimes sooner. In a small number of cases it can take up to 5 days if a result needs additional review.

You will get an email when your scores are ready, and you can then view your full score report by logging into your Pearson account.

How to Read Your Score Report

Your report shows three layers of information:

• Overall score from 10 to 90.
• Communicative skills: Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing.
• Enabling skills: Grammar, Oral Fluency, Pronunciation, Spelling, Vocabulary, Written Discourse.

If you are reapplying or retaking, the enabling skills tell you exactly where you lost marks, which is the best guide for targeted practice.

How to Send Your PTE Score to Universities

One of the best features of PTE is that sending scores is free and unlimited. You can send your report to as many institutions as you like at no extra cost. Here is how.

1. Log in to your Pearson account with the credentials you used to book.
2. Open your score report once results are available.
3. Select the send scores option.
4. Search for the institution by name. Most universities are listed in the Pearson system.
5. Add the institutions you want to receive your score and confirm.
6. The institution then accesses your verified score directly through the secure Pearson system.

Because sending is free, there is no reason to hold back. Send to every institution on your shortlist as soon as your scores are ready.

Sending Scores for Visa and Immigration

For migration, the process differs by country:

• Australia: You typically link or send your PTE score to the Department of Home Affairs through their system as part of your application.
• Canada (Express Entry): Use your PTE Core result and enter the details into your IRCC profile.
• United Kingdom: For visas requiring a Secure English Language Test, you must take the UKVI version and follow the visa-specific sharing process.

Always follow the exact instructions for your visa program, as the method of sharing scores can differ from the university process.

What If Your Score Expires?

If your 2 year validity runs out before you finish your application, you will need to retake the test. To avoid this:

• Time your test so the result will still be valid at the point of assessment.
• If your process is delayed, check whether you need a fresh score before deadlines pass.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a PTE score valid? 2 years from the test date for both PTE Academic and PTE Core.

How fast do PTE results come out? Usually within 48 hours, occasionally up to 5 days if extra review is needed.

Does it cost money to send PTE scores to universities? No. Sending your PTE score to institutions is free and unlimited through your Pearson account.

Can I send my PTE score to multiple universities? Yes. You can send it to as many institutions as you want at no extra charge.

Can I use an expired PTE score? No. Once a score passes its 2 year validity it can no longer be sent or used. You would need to retake the test.

Planning your timeline? Make sure you test early enough that your score stays valid through every step of your application, and practise with mock tests so you hit your target on the first attempt.

Tags: PTE score validity, send PTE scores, PTE results, PTE score report