Rules, comparisons and data

Can I bring medicine into the PTE test?

Not into the room as a rule. Medication stays in your locker, and Pearson's handbook says that if you may need it, you must tell the test administrator before the test starts, because access will be supervised. Some comfort aids are allowed in the room after checking, including unwrapped cough drops and an insulin pump attached to your body. A medical break needs an accommodation request before booking.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • PTE

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

Comfort aids allowed in the test room

The Test Taker Handbook lists these comfort aids. They must be checked by the test administrator, and you must bring your own.

ItemAllowed in the room?
TissuesYes
Cough dropsYes, unwrapped
Pillow for neck, back or an injured limbYes
Sweater, sweatshirt or blazerYes; show the pockets are empty
Glasses and hearing aidsYes
Neck brace or collarYes
Insulin pump attached to your bodyYes
Food and drinkNo

Medication in your locker

All personal items go into a locker you cannot open until the test is over (test centre rules). If you may need medication from your locker, the handbook says you must tell the administrator before the test starts, as you will need to be supervised.

There are no scheduled breaks. You can request an unscheduled one, but the clock keeps running and you cannot use your locker during it. Eating, drinking and chewing gum are not allowed in the test room.

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When you need an accommodation

If you need a break for medical reasons, the handbook says you must request it before booking as a test accommodation. Pearson asks for the request form at least six weeks before your chosen test date (handbook), with evidence of any medical condition (booking help). See PTE accommodations for what is available.

If a hand injury would stop the palm vein scan at check-in, contact Pearson before booking, or you will be turned away and lose your fee. No score adjustment is made for unexpected illness at the time of the test.

Pearson updates its policies from time to time. Check the linked page before you act. This guide is general information, not official PTE advice.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take my inhaler or tablets into the PTE room?+

Medication stays in your locker. Tell the administrator before the test starts so you can have supervised access if you need it.

Can I bring water into the PTE test?+

No. Pearson's rules ban eating, drinking and chewing gum in the test room.

Is an insulin pump allowed in PTE?+

Yes. An insulin pump attached to your body is a listed comfort aid, checked by the administrator.

Can I get a break for a medical condition in PTE?+

Only as an accommodation requested before booking, with medical evidence. Unscheduled breaks do not stop the clock.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

© 2026 BandLadder. Written and checked by the BandLadder team. You may quote or cite this page with credit to BandLadder and a link to it; republishing it in full needs our written permission. Content use policy

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