Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
What Pearson says about it
The task opens Part 1 of the test. Pearson's PTE Academic format page describes it as an opportunity to get familiar with the test technology and prepare for the speaking and listening questions, and says it does not contribute to your score. The PTE Core page uses the same wording.
| Detail | PTE Academic | PTE Core |
|---|---|---|
| Scored? | No | No |
| Time to read and prepare | 25 seconds | 25 seconds |
| Time to record | 30 seconds | 30 seconds |
| Attempts | One | One |
Why it is recorded anyway
The Test Taker Handbook lists what Pearson takes on test day: your photograph, your signature, a scan of your palm vein pattern and a spoken personal introduction. It sits in the handbook's security and biometric data section, which says data may be shared with government authorities or higher education institutions processing an application that includes your PTE results, or that you have nominated to receive your scores.
Treat it as part of your identity record, not a throwaway. Follow the prompt on screen and answer it honestly.
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Using it as a warm-up
Because it carries no marks, it is a safe place to check your speaking volume and the feel of the microphone. The handbook advises speaking at a conversational level; you do not need to raise your voice. The scored tasks start straight after it.
Frequently asked questions
Does a bad Personal Introduction lower my PTE score?+
No. Pearson says it does not contribute to your score.
Can I skip the Personal Introduction?+
Pearson describes it as part of the test and lists the recording among the data it takes on test day. Answer the prompt as shown.
Is the Personal Introduction in PTE Core?+
Yes, with the same 25 seconds to prepare and 30 seconds to record.
Can universities hear my Personal Introduction?+
The handbook says test-day data may be shared with institutions processing an application that includes your PTE results or that you nominated to receive scores. It does not say more than that.
Keep reading
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