If you’re planning to study or migrate abroad, the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) is a widely accepted English proficiency test that can unlock opportunities in countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand. But while preparing for the exam is crucial, understanding and meeting key PTE deadlines is equally important.
Missing important dates can lead to unnecessary delays, missed university intakes, and even the need to reschedule your entire academic or immigration plan.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most important PTE deadlines, mistakes you should avoid, and smart tips to help you stay ahead.
There is no fixed booking deadline for the PTE Academic exam, but slots fill up fast, especially during peak intake seasons (January, May, and September).
Book your PTE test at least 30 to 45 days in advance to secure your preferred date and test center. You can book your test directly from the official Pearson PTE website.
Don’t wait until your application deadline is close. Booking late might mean no availability in your city or being forced to travel long distances for a test slot.
You can reschedule or cancel your test through the PTE portal, but refunds depend on the timing.
Full Refund: Cancel or reschedule at least 14 full calendar days before your test date.
Partial Refund: If canceled between 7–13 calendar days before the test.
No Refund: Cancelling less than 7 calendar days in advance.
Source – Pearson PTE FAQs
Set a reminder at least 2 weeks before your test in case you need to adjust plans without losing your money.
Many candidates forget to cancel in time and lose the entire test fee (~$220). Always know the cutoff dates.
After taking the test, your results are typically available within 2 business days, but can take up to 5 days.
However, sending scores to universities or immigration bodies takes additional time depending on their processing systems.
Take your PTE at least 3–4 weeks before your university or visa application deadline to account for score processing and delivery.
Don’t assume you’ll get your scores instantly. Even if results come in 48 hours, universities may take 7–10 days to acknowledge receipt.
Each university has specific deadlines for submitting PTE scores as part of their admission requirements. These can vary by course, country, and academic intake.
For example:
Australia: Semester 1 usually starts in February; deadline is typically in October–December.
Canada: For September intake, submit all documents by May–June.
UK: UCAS deadline for most undergraduate programs is January 31.
Check with the university directly or refer to their official admission page for exact timelines.
Work backward from the university deadline and set your own internal deadline for taking the PTE and receiving results.
If you're using your PTE results for immigration (e.g., Australia PR), the test must be taken within 2 years of the application date.
For student visas, many countries also need English test results submitted as part of your complete visa file. Late submission can result in delays or rejection.
Take the test early in your application process, ideally before applying for a visa.
Don’t assume that universities will wait for you to take the test later. Incomplete applications are often rejected without notice.
Create a Google Sheet or use a planner app to note down:
PTE test date
Application deadlines
Visa submission deadlines
Internal prep goals
Use phone alarms and calendar alerts to avoid missing key windows like cancellation/reschedule periods and university cutoffs.
Once your score is out, send it immediately to universities through the PTE portal. Don’t wait until the last minute.
Some universities require official PTE scores directly from Pearson. Always check their submission guidelines.
PTE Exam Booking: 30–45 days before your target test date
Rescheduling/Cancellation: At least 14 days before the test for a full refund
Score Report Processing: 2–5 business days
University Applications: 3–6 months before the intended intake
Visa Submission: Varies by country; usually 4–8 weeks before travel
Proper deadline management is the backbone of a successful PTE journey. Even if you're well-prepared academically, poor planning can derail your application. Stay ahead by tracking your timelines and being proactive.
And most importantly — start your preparation early.
If you're serious about acing the PTE and hitting your deadlines, begin with real practice.
👉 Gurully offers a Free PTE Mock Test that mirrors the actual exam, complete with AI scoring, question-wise practice, and instant performance insights.
Whether you're a beginner or re-attempting, Gurully's PTE platform helps you identify your weak areas, improve fast, and stay confident as deadlines approach.
Also Read:
How to Submit Your PTE Application Without Errors: A Complete Guide