Pearson's Academic English Language Test, PTE Academic, Enters Fourth Successful Year

LONDON, August 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Pearson, the world's leading learning company, developed PTE Academic over 5 years ago in response to feedback from universities and higher education institutions to meet the need for an English language proficiency test that more accurately measured the communication skills of international students as securely and efficiently as possible.

Since its launch nearly 4 years ago, PTE Academic has grown in popularity and is considered to be the key provider of English language testing for international students.  Its popularity is further marked by recognition and endorsement from over 3,000 programs from renowned colleges, universities, training providers and professional associations across the English-speaking world, including:

• Acceptance from over 96% of UK institutions including, University of St Andrews, University of Warwick and University College London, 92% of Australian universities and 96% of TAFEs and over 1,600 programs in the US including Harvard, Yale University, American and Purdue Universities

• Approval by the UK Border Agency (UKBA) for all visa tiers

• Approval by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) for Australian student visas

• Endorsement by GMAC® - the owners of the Graduate Management Admission Test® (GMAT) as their preferred English language test

Pearson collaborates with high-profile education organizations such as Kaplan, London School of Business and Finance, JJL Overseas Education Consultancy and Service and Global Education to increase access to tests and prepare candidates for PTE Academic.  Read more about Pearson's collaboration with partners at pearsonpte.com/media/Pages/FeatureStories.aspx

To follow our story visit pearsonpte.com/Documents/fourthyear.pdf

Notes for editors:

About PTE Academic

PTE Academic was launched in late 2009 by Pearson and is recognized by renowned colleges, universities, training providers and professional associations across the English-speaking world. Globally, close to 3,000 academic programs now accept PTE Academic scores. PTE Academic is recognized by the UK Border Agency for Tier 4 (student t) applications and applications for Tier 2 of the points-based system, where applicants are required to demonstrate English language proficiency. It is also approved by the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) for student visa applications. PTE Academic is endorsed by the prestigious Graduate Management Admission Council® (GMAC®), owner of the Graduate Management Admission Test® (GMAT®).

For a full list of recognizing institutions, please visit: http://www.pearsonpte.com/whoaccepts

Hear testimonials from our test takers first hand by visiting our YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/pearsonpte

About Pearson

Pearson is the world's leading learning company. Our education business combines 150 years of experience in publishing with the latest learning technology and online support. We are also part of the wider Pearson family which includes Penguin and the Financial Times. We provide education and assessment services in more than 65 countries. Our courses and resources are available in print, online and through multilingual packages, helping people learn whatever, wherever and however they choose. Products such as MyLabs are changing education practice worldwide.

SOURCE Pearson