PTE Test Center & Technical Requirements
Complete guide to PTE test center facilities, equipment, technical support, and troubleshooting.
Q185. What equipment is provided at the PTE test center?
The PTE test center provides: a desktop computer, noise-cancelling headset with microphone, erasable notepad booklet (typically 2 sheets), an erasable pen, and a locker for personal belongings. You are not permitted to bring your own equipment into the testing room.
#Link to this answerQ186. Can I use scratch paper in PTE exam?
You cannot bring your own paper. The test center provides an erasable notepad booklet which you can use for notes throughout the exam. The notepad can be exchanged for a new one if it becomes full, though this is rare in practice. All notes are erased after the test.
#Link to this answerQ187. What happens if the computer crashes during PTE exam?
If there is a technical failure during your PTE exam, test center staff will assist immediately. Pearson has protocols for test interruptions including restarting the test from where you left off or, in severe cases, rescheduling at no charge. Report any technical issue to the test center administrator immediately rather than trying to resolve it yourself.
#Link to this answerQ188. Can I take PTE at home (online proctored)?
As of 2026, PTE Academic does not offer an officially supported at-home online proctoring option equivalent to the full exam. Some test preparation platforms like OpenPTE offer at-home practice under simulated exam conditions, but the official scored PTE Academic exam must be taken at an authorised Pearson test center.
#Link to this answerQ189. How is noise managed in PTE test centers?
PTE test centers are open-plan — multiple candidates may be in the same room speaking aloud for different sections simultaneously. Noise-cancelling headsets are provided for listening tasks and recording, and the AI scoring system is designed to isolate your microphone input. However, if you are distracted by ambient noise, inform the test administrator.
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