Pearson's retake rules
From the PTE retake policy, effective since 8 August 2024:
| Rule | What it means |
|---|---|
| Wait for your score | You can book a new test only after you have received the scores from your last test |
| One booking at a time | You cannot hold two future test bookings at once |
| Book up to 6 months ahead | The furthest a test can be booked in advance |
| More than once a month is allowed | You can retake within the same month |
| 12 tests in 12 months | No more than 12 tests in any 12-month window; an exception form can be submitted to ask for more |
| One account only | Creating a new account to get round the rules delays future scores and may breach the malpractice policy |
How the 12-month limit works
Pearson's example: if you took 12 tests within six months, you would need to wait another six months before you could book again (Pearson help centre). Testing again after reaching the limit is listed as malpractice, and the extra results may be cancelled (malpractice policy).
Because scores usually arrive within two days, the practical minimum gap between tests is a few days, plus the time to find a free slot.
Know your target? Check where you stand
Take a free AI-scored PTE mock and see your score per skill before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
Take a free scored PTE mock →Practise before you book: free PTE mock test, PTE predictions, PTE Core practice test and PTE to IELTS converter.
Retake or rescore?
A rescore must be requested before you book another test: Pearson does not allow a rescore if you have already scheduled a new one, and only your most recent test can be rescored (rescore policy). Decide on a rescore first. See PTE rescore and technical review.
What institutions see
Institutions only see the score you send them; they cannot see whether earlier attempts were better or worse (Pearson help centre). Each test has its own Score Report Code (Score Guide). Every result can be sent for two years from its test date; see PTE score validity.
Pearson updates its policies from time to time. Check the linked policy page before you act. This guide is general information, not official PTE advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a limit on PTE attempts?+
Yes: up to 12 tests in any 12-month window. Pearson can approve more through its exception form.
How soon can I retake PTE?+
As soon as you have received your last score; there is no fixed gap and you can retake in the same month.
Can I book two PTE tests at once?+
No. You can only hold one booking at a time.
Can I open a new PTE account to test more often?+
No. Pearson says this delays future scores and may count as malpractice.
Do universities see my old PTE scores?+
No. They only see the Score Report you send them.
Keep reading
Related
Verified against the linked official sources on 11 October 2026. Rules change: confirm on the official page before you book or apply.
© 2026 BandLadder. Written and checked by the BandLadder team. You may quote or cite this page with credit to BandLadder and a link to it; republishing it in full needs our written permission. Content use policy