Enhancements to Pearson's English Language Testing Including New Express Test

Pearson Enhances English Language Assessment with New Testing Options

In a major evolution of its English language assessment offerings, Pearson, a renowned leader in lifelong learning, has unveiled significant updates to its testing portfolio, including enhancements to the Pearson Test of English (PTE) and the introduction of the Pearson English Express Test. This initiative, set to be deployed in August 2025, reflects Pearson’s ongoing commitment to improving experiences for governments, educational institutions, and learners globally.

Enhancements to the Pearson Test of English (PTE)

Starting in August 2025, PTE Academic will feature two novel speaking tasks: "Respond to a Situation" and "Summarize a Group Discussion." These additions are meticulously designed to evaluate test-takers' communication skills in scenarios they are likely to encounter in academic and professional contexts. Moreover, Pearson has enhanced its scoring model by integrating advanced AI technologies alongside human oversight to identify unoriginal responses accurately.

To ensure that learners are optimally prepared, Pearson has also introduced a suite of new resources tailored specifically for the updated PTE Academic. This includes scored practice tests, expert courseware, engaging webinars for test-takers, and a variety of instructional video content.

Despite the new enhancements, the fundamental aspects of the PTE remain intact. It is still a fully computer-based test predominantly scored by AI, with rapid results typically delivered within two days. The reliability of this assessment has earned the trust of over 3,500 institutions and millions of learners worldwide.

Expansion of Global Test Center Network

Pearson's secure test center network continues to grow, with 30 new centers having opened in 2025 alone, increasing the total to 517 locations worldwide. These expansions span various countries including Canada, China, Australia, India, Vietnam, and a dozen others, catering to growing demands in migration and study abroad sectors.

Introduction of the Pearson English Express Test

In response to the increasing need for accessible English proficiency assessments from learners aspiring to study in the United States, Pearson is introducing the Pearson English Express Test. This new online assessment allows learners to take the test at their convenience, offering an affordable alternative for individuals lacking access to physical test centers.

The one-hour Pearson English Express Test can be taken anytime, anywhere, and results are provided within minutes, with a certified report available within 48 hours. This test meets the evolving needs of universities looking for secure and accurate English proficiency assessments. Institutions can establish their required scores using the Global Scale of English (GSE) proficiency framework, receiving results through the same reliable platform utilized for the PTE Academic.

Each participating university will receive samples of both written and spoken responses from test-takers, enhancing the assurance of the assessment's integrity. Security measures in place draw on Pearson's extensive 30-year expertise in test administration and include identity verification, equipment checks, human oversight, and dual-camera monitoring during assessments.

Sharon Hague, President of English Language Learning at Pearson, emphasizes the importance of these advancements, stating, "As English becomes increasingly vital for global education, careers, and migration, we are committed to innovating assessments. Our enhancements are designed to reflect real-world skills and provide new preparation tools, equipping learners to succeed on test day."

Conclusion

Pearson’s latest developments not only address the diverse needs of governments, institutions, and learners across the globe but also showcase an ongoing commitment to innovation in English language assessment. The enhanced PTE Academic will take effect on August 7, 2025, and the Pearson English Express Test is set to be launched in Q4 of 2025 across Brazil, Mexico, the United States, Japan, France, Italy, Germany, and Spain, with plans to expand into additional markets in 2026.

For more details about these advancements, visit the official Pearson website.