Achieving a PTE Academic score of 79+ (equivalent to IELTS Band 8) is entirely possible with the right preparation plan, skill-specific strategies, and effective time management. This score is highly sought after for visa, study, and migration purposes in Australia, Canada, and other countries.
In this guide, we outline exactly what you need to do to progress from good to exceptional.
Step 1: Develop the 79+ Mindset
Before focusing on techniques, adopt the right approach:
- Accuracy before speed – Fluency matters, but not at the expense of accuracy.
- Integrated learning – Many PTE tasks assess multiple skills at once (e.g., Read Aloud impacts both Speaking and Reading).
- Consistency over cramming – Short, daily practice sessions are more effective than long, irregular study bursts.
Step 2: Understand the Scoring System
PTE scoring is AI-based and evaluates:
- Content – How well you address the prompt
- Form – Adhering to word limits and correct format
- Oral Fluency & Pronunciation – Speaking naturally and clearly
- Grammar & Vocabulary – Using a wide range of structures accurately
- Spelling & Cohesion – Avoiding careless mistakes and ensuring smooth flow
Many tasks contribute to multiple sections. For example, Read Aloud influences both Speaking and Reading scores.
Step 3: Speaking – Sound Natural, Not Robotic
High-weight tasks: Read Aloud, Repeat Sentence, Describe Image, Retell Lecture, Answer Short Question
Strategies for 79+:
- Read Aloud: Break sentences into meaningful chunks; avoid rushing.
- Repeat Sentence: Focus on keywords and sentence rhythm rather than memorising every word.
- Describe Image: Use a consistent structure – Introduction → Key details → Conclusion.
- Retell Lecture: Take quick notes using abbreviations and focus on three to four main points.
- Maintain fluency; even if unsure, keep speaking confidently.
Step 4: Reading – Strategic, Not Just Fast
High-weight tasks: Reading & Writing Fill in the Blanks, Reorder Paragraphs, Reading Fill in the Blanks
Strategies for 79+:
- Recognise collocations – Many answers rely on understanding common word pairings.
- Skim, then scan – Get the overall idea before filling in blanks.
- Reorder Paragraphs – Look for linking words, logical sequence, and pronoun references.
- Manage your time – Don’t get stuck; move on and return if needed.
Step 5: Writing – Precision and Structure
High-weight tasks: Summarize Written Text, Essay
Strategies for 79+:
- Summarize Written Text: Write one sentence (5–75 words) that captures all main points without unnecessary details.
- Essay: Use a clear four-paragraph format – Introduction, Body 1, Body 2, Conclusion. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence.
- Avoid overly complex vocabulary unless confident about its meaning and spelling.
- Leave one to two minutes for proofreading.
Step 6: Listening – Stay Active and Alert
High-weight tasks: Summarize Spoken Text, Write from Dictation, Fill in the Blanks (Listening)
Strategies for 79+:
- Summarize Spoken Text: Take structured notes with keywords, then craft a 50–70 word summary.
- Write from Dictation: Prioritise accuracy in spelling and word order.
- Highlight Correct Summary: Focus on the main idea rather than minor details.
- Use pre-audio pause time to anticipate the topic.
Step 7: Master Time Management
- Stick to the allocated time per question – the PTE is designed to keep you moving.
- Monitor the on-screen timer throughout the test.
- In Speaking, begin promptly after the beep—avoid starting too early or too late.
Step 8: Practise with AI-Based Mock Tests
Because the PTE is scored by AI, using realistic AI-scored mock tests helps you understand how the system evaluates your fluency, pronunciation, and grammar.
- Analyse mistakes immediately.
- Track improvement by individual skill area.
Step 9: Final Week Before the Test
- Attempt at least two to three full mock tests.
- Focus each day on your weakest section.
- Rest well – fatigue can negatively affect fluency and focus.
Quick 79+ Checklist
- Use proven templates for efficiency
- Learn academic vocabulary and collocations
- Maintain natural rhythm and tone in speaking
- Keep writing concise, clear, and accurate
- Manage time effectively in all sections
Final Thought:
Scoring 79+ in the PTE Academic is not just about improving English—it is about mastering exam-specific techniques. With targeted strategies, consistent practice, and the right mindset, you can reach and even exceed your target score.