For Australian visas, you must sit PTE Academic at an official test centre. The Department of Home Affairs does not accept at-home or online versions of English tests. Some universities and other organisations may accept an online test, but always check with the organisation before booking. For most Nepali students heading to Australia, the test centre is the only safe choice.
Test centre vs at home: quick comparison
| Test centre | At home (where offered) | |
|---|---|---|
| Accepted for Australian visas | Yes | No |
| Accepted by universities | Yes | Some, check each one |
| Equipment | Provided by Pearson | Your own computer, webcam and room |
| Risk of technical problems | Low | Higher (internet, room checks) |
| Noise from other test takers | Yes | No |
Booking an online test for a visa that needs a centre test means paying twice. Check the exact requirement first.
What you need at a test centre
- Your valid passport (name matching your booking).
- Nothing else: Pearson provides the computer, headset, microphone, notepad and pen.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early. See PTE exam centres in Nepal and our exam day checklist.
If you take an online test: equipment checklist
Where an online version is offered and accepted, Pearson's rules are strict. Generally you need:
- A personal computer (not a work computer with restrictions) that passes Pearson's system check.
- A webcam and microphone that meet the stated requirements.
- A quiet, private room with nothing on the walls or desk, and no one else present.
- A stable internet connection. Power cuts and slow internet are common causes of failed online tests in Nepal.
- Your passport for identity checks on camera.
Always run Pearson's official system check on the same computer, in the same room, before booking.
Which should you choose?
- Australian student, graduate or skilled visa: test centre.
- Australian registration such as AHPRA: test centre. See PTE for nurses.
- University admission only: check the university's page. If in doubt, choose the test centre, because that score works for both admission and visa.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take PTE at home in Nepal?
Only where Pearson offers an online version and the organisation you need it for accepts it. For Australian visas, it does not count.
Is PTE at home easier?
No. It is the same level of English, with stricter room and equipment rules and more risk of technical problems.
Does Australia accept PTE Academic Online?
No. Australian visas require a test taken at a test centre.
Preparing for a test centre exam? Our tutors run full mocks under real timing. See courses or message us on WhatsApp.