Pearson Enhances PTE Academic with Real-World Speaking Tasks and AI-Driven Security, Launches Express Online Test

Pearson Enhances PTE Academic with Real-World Speaking Tasks and AI-Driven Security, Launches Express Online Test

(IN BRIEF) Pearson is enhancing PTE Academic with two new speaking tasks (“Respond to a Situation” and “Summarize a Group Discussion”) and improved AI-assisted scoring, effective August 7, 2025. The upgrades include expanded preparation materials and an ever-growing test-center network of 517 locations. Additionally, Pearson will launch the Pearson English Express Test in Q4 2025—a one-hour, on-demand online assessment delivering instant preliminary results and certified scores within 48 hours. Designed for US-bound and globally mobile learners, the Express Test offers GSE-aligned scoring, response samples for verification, and robust security protocols. These initiatives underscore Pearson’s commitment to secure, realistic, and learner-focused English assessments.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 10-Jul-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), the world’s lifelong learning company, today unveils significant enhancements to its English language testing portfolio, featuring upgrades to the Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic and the introduction of the new Pearson English Express Test. These developments reinforce Pearson’s dedication to delivering secure, accurate, and trusted assessments for governments, universities, and learners worldwide.

Effective August 7, 2025, PTE Academic will add two real-world speaking tasks—“Respond to a Situation” and “Summarize a Group Discussion”—to more precisely gauge communication skills vital for academic and professional success. The scoring model will also be strengthened by integrating advanced AI alongside expert human scorers to better detect unoriginal responses. To support test takers, Pearson is launching tailored preparation resources, including scored practice tests, expert courseware, webinars, and instructional videos.

Core features of PTE—fully computer-based delivery, AI-driven scoring, and rapid results (typically within two days)—remain unchanged, ensuring continued trust from over 3,500 institutions and millions of learners. Pearson’s secure test-center network is also expanding, with 30 new centers opened so far in 2025—bringing the total to 517 across key markets such as Canada, China, Australia, India, and Vietnam.

In response to growing demand from US-bound learners, Pearson is launching the Pearson English Express Test in Q4 2025 (initially in Brazil, Mexico, the US, Japan, France, Italy, Germany, and Spain). This one-hour, online test can be taken anywhere, anytime, with results available in minutes and certified reports delivered within 48 hours. Universities can set benchmarks using Pearson’s Global Scale of English (GSE) and receive written and spoken response samples for added assurance. Security features include identity and equipment checks, human oversight, and dual-camera monitoring—built on 30 years of Pearson’s assessment expertise.

“As English proficiency becomes increasingly critical for global education, careers, and migration, we’re investing in assessment innovations that mirror real-world communication and uphold the highest security standards,” said Sharon Hague, President of English Language Learning at Pearson. “Our enhanced tasks and new preparation tools are designed to help test takers feel confident and institutions feel assured that results are both accurate and meaningful.”

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to help people realize the life they imagine through learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s lifelong learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at pearsonplc.com.

Media Contact:

email: ellen.clark@pearson.com

SOURCE: Pearson