Do you want to study in the USA without IELTS? You can get a USA student visa without IELTS if you are from an English-speaking country. But if you are from a non-English speaking country, you must show your English proficiency skills. In that case, if you don’t want to take the IELTS exam, you can take alternative English language proficiency tests like PTE, Duolingo, OIETC etc. or you can also study in USA with MOI.
However, if your MOI is valid, you can go for the MOI accepted universities in USA. But if you want to take an alternative to IELTS test, PTE will be the best option for you. Many top universities in the USA are accepting PTE from international students. The minimum PTE score requirement in the USA is around 50–60.
In this blog, we will discuss the PTE accepted universities in USA, the minimum score requirements and how to improve your score for PTE. So, if you want to study in USA with PTE for the September 2025 intake this blog will help you a lot.
Check Your Eligibility!
What is PTE?
PTE stands for Pearson Test of English, a standardized English language proficiency test designed for non-native speakers who need to demonstrate their language skills, often for immigration or study abroad purposes. The PTE Academic test is particularly popular for students applying to English-speaking universities, as well as for immigration applications in countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK. PTE assesses four language skills:
- Speaking
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
Unlike traditional paper-based exams, PTE is fully computerized, and results are typically available within 48 hours, making it a quick and convenient option for test-takers. The test is scored on a scale from 10 to 90, with scores correlating to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) levels, which helps institutions and governments determine applicants’ proficiency levels.
Why Choose PTE for Studying Abroad?
Choosing PTE (Pearson Test of English) for studying abroad has become increasingly popular for several reasons:
- Quick Results: PTE provides fast results, usually within 48 hours, making it ideal for students with tight deadlines. This quick turnaround can help applicants submit scores to universities and meet application deadlines with ease.
- Accepted Worldwide: PTE is widely accepted by thousands of universities and colleges around the world, including top universities in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Many immigration authorities, especially in Australia, also accept PTE scores.
- Computer-Based Testing: PTE is fully computerized, which means all sections, including speaking, are completed on a computer. This ensures standardized testing conditions and unbiased scoring, as AI technology is used to assess responses.
- Fair and Transparent Scoring: The AI-based scoring system means that there is no human bias, offering a fair assessment of language skills. Scores are based on your actual performance rather than subjective evaluations.
- Flexible Testing Dates and Locations: PTE offers flexible test dates with multiple testing centres worldwide, making it convenient to find a date and location that suits your schedule. Some centres even offer the test several times a month.
Choosing PTE can make the application process smoother, faster, and more reliable, providing an efficient way to demonstrate English language proficiency for international education and immigration.
Is PTE Accepted in USA?
Yes, the PTE (Pearson Test of English) is accepted in the USA by many universities and colleges as proof of English language proficiency for international students. There are many PTE accepted universities in USA, including reputable universities like Harvard, Yale, and Columbia, as well as a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
PTE Accepted Universities in USA
Many universities in the USA accept PTE scores as an alternative to the IELTS test. Let’s explore some PTE accepted universities in USA.
- Columbia University
- Yale University
- University of Southern California
- Colorado State University
- Pace University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Arizona State University
- California State University, Monterey Bay
- Cornell University
- Duke University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, etc.
Columbia University
All applicants whose first language is not English must show proof of English skills, no matter which country they’re from. F1 visa applicants also need to provide proof of English skills, even if they listed English as their first language on their application. However, Columbia University accepts the PTE test. The minimum PTE score requirement for Columbia University is an overall 65 & Writing Minimum of 65.
University of Southern California
USC needs to receive your test scores directly from the testing service for them to count as official. Photocopies or paper copies are not accepted. When you register for the PTE Academic test, choose “University of Southern California” from the list of schools. Or, you can give this information to the testing centre after you finish the test. You don’t need to provide contact information for the specific USC department you’re applying to. The minimum PTE score requirement at the University of Southern California is 61 or above, with 53 or above on each band.
Colorado State University
CSU Graduate School requires proof of English language skills for admission. You can show this by taking the TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or PTE Academic tests. The minimum PTE score requirement at Colorado State University is overall 58.
Pace University
Students who completed a bachelor’s degree in a country where English is not the official language, and whose first language is not English, must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Pearson PTE scores. The test scores must be from within the last two years. The minimum PTE requirement at Pace University is an overall 52.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University is one of the most popular PTE accepted universities in USA. The minimum PTE score required for Arizona State University is 60.
California State University, Monterey Bay
To be considered for admission at California State University, Monterey Bay, students must complete all academic and English language requirements by the end of the term before they start. Summer classes cannot be used to meet the requirements for Fall admission. All documents must be in the original language and include certified English translations. California State University also accept PTE tests. The minimum PTE requirement for California State University, Monterey Bay is an overall 45.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
If English is not your first language, MIT strongly recommends that you provide English proficiency test scores if you have been using English for less than 5 years, or if you don’t speak English at home or school. This helps the university review your application more completely. The minimum PTE score requirement at Massachusetts Institute of Technology is 65.
Minimum PTE Score Requirements at USA Universities
Most of the universities in USA accept PTE scores of an average of 50-60. However, the minimum PTE score requirement at US universities is 45. Some universities accept this score. However, some universities may require a score of more than 60.
| Degree | Minimum PTE Score |
| Bachelor’s | 45-55 |
| Master’s | 50-60 |
Documents Required to Apply for the PTE Accepted Universities in USA
Every university in USA has its admission requirements. However, here are some general documents required to apply for the PTE accepted universities in USA.
- Completed Application Form: Applicants need to fill out the university’s application form.
- PTE Score Report: Submit a valid PTE score report.
- Transcripts: Provide academic transcripts from previous schools.
- Letters of Recommendation: Usually needed for graduate programs.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): Write a personal statement about your goals and reasons for applying.
Final Words
A good PTE score is an important first step, but doing well in other parts of your application can greatly improve your chances of getting into a university in the USA that accepts PTE. Start preparing for the PTE ahead of time. Use official study materials and practice tests from Pearson to help you get ready. However, if you want to apply for the PTE accepted universities in USA, you can always contact AIMS Education.
FAQ
Which university will accept PTE in the USA?
Ans: Columbia University, Yale University, University of Southern California, Colorado State University, Pace University, University of Pennsylvania, etc. are the best PTE accepted universities in USA.
Is PTE valid for 3 years for PR?
Ans: Although the PTE Academic Score Report is marked as valid for 2 years, it is accepted for immigration purposes in Australia for up to 3 years.
What is the minimum PTE score for a USA student visa?
Ans: The minimum PTE score requirement for a USA student visa is 45.
Is 50 in PTE 6 in IELTS?
Ans: You can think of a PTE score of 46 as being the same as an IELTS band score of 6.0, or a PTE score of 50 as equivalent to an IELTS band score of 6.0.
Is PTE easier than IELTS?
Ans: In conclusion, there is no clear “easier” test between IELTS and PTE. It depends on what you prefer, what you’re looking for, and which test your chosen university accepts.
Which PTE is most difficult?
Ans: The PTE Reading section is considered the most difficult of the three. Many test-takers lose points in this part. Most questions in the Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks section focus on word combinations, known as collocations.
