How does a PTE rescore work?

This is the big difference from IELTS, where the British Council says a re-mark can never lower your band (see IELTS re-mark). With PTE, a lower rescore overwrites the score you already have.

Pearson advises asking for a rescore before you share your score in any application. If you have already shared it, telling the institution about a change is your responsibility; institutions verify scores only through Pearson's secure system (rescore policy).

If you think a technical problem affected your speaking score, a technical review checks your audio recordings. It costs US$50, must be requested by phone within 15 business days of receiving your results, and reports back within 15 business days of payment (rescore policy).

A technical review never changes your scores. If it finds a technical issue, Pearson refunds your test fee (or gives a free voucher if you paid by voucher) and the review fee. If it finds none, neither fee is refunded and you can book a new test at your own cost.

You can appeal only after a rescore, technical review or malpractice decision, and an appeal checks whether Pearson followed its procedures; it does not re-assess your test (appeals policy).

Stage One: submit the customer service form within 15 business days of the decision, then pay US$120 by phone within 48 hours; the outcome comes within 30 business days. Stage Two, reviewed by an independent reviewer, costs US$150 on the same timings and is final. Fees are refunded if the appeal succeeds.

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