Cambridge and PTE Exams in Malaysia: Complete Guide 2025

Studying or working abroad often requires proof of English proficiency, and in Malaysia, two globally recognized exams—the Cambridge English exams and the Pearson Test of English (PTE)—are becoming increasingly popular among international students and professionals. This guide explains everything you need to know about taking these exams in Malaysia, including exam types, test centers, fees, preparation tips, and how to choose between them.

Overview of English Proficiency Exams in Malaysia

Malaysia is a growing hub for English language learning and international education. As more students choose Malaysia for English studies or as a stepping stone to study overseas, proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, and PTE have become essential.

Among these, Cambridge English and PTE Academic are gaining popularity due to their accuracy, flexible testing systems, and worldwide acceptance.

What is the Cambridge English Exam?

The Cambridge English Qualifications are developed by the University of Cambridge and are recognized globally for academic and professional purposes.

Main Cambridge English Exams Offered in Malaysia

1. B2 First (FCE – First Certificate in English)

   • Intermediate to upper-intermediate level

   • Accepted by universities and employers worldwide

2. C1 Advanced (CAE – Certificate in Advanced English)

   • High-level English for academic or professional use

   • Often required for university admission

3. C2 Proficiency (CPE – Certificate of Proficiency in English)

   • The highest Cambridge level

   • Demonstrates near-native fluency

4. B1 Preliminary (PET) and A2 Key (KET)

   • Suitable for secondary students or those building foundational English

Each test evaluates four main skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Cambridge Exam Structure

Cambridge exams are typically paper-based or computer-based and are conducted at authorized centers.

Results are given on the Cambridge English Scale, which aligns with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) levels (A1–C2).

What is the PTE Exam?

The Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) is a computer-based English proficiency test designed to evaluate real-life communication skills in an academic or professional context.

Key Features of PTE Academic

• Fully computer-based (including speaking section)

• Uses AI-based scoring, ensuring objective and fast results

• Accepted by thousands of universities, including in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Malaysia

• Approved for student visa and migration applications in several countries

PTE Exam Structure

The PTE test consists of three main parts and is completed in about 2 hours.

Scores are based on the Global Scale of English (GSE), ranging from 10 to 90.

Cambridge vs. PTE: Which Should You Choose?

Choose Cambridge if you prefer a more traditional exam style or want a lifelong certificate.
Choose PTE if you value flexibility, faster results, and an AI-scored test without human bias.

Exam Centers in Malaysia

Cambridge English Test Centers

• British Council Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur, Penang

• Cambridge Assessment Authorized Centers – Found in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, and Kuching

• International Schools – Many offer Cambridge English exams for students

PTE Academic Test Centers

1. Pearson Professional Center Kuala Lumpur

2. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) – Skudai, Johor

3. IDP Malaysia (Subang Jaya)

4. ACE Education Group – Kuala Lumpur

Booking can be done online through the official Cambridge English or PTE Academic websites.

Exam Fees (as of 2025)

Fees vary depending on the test center and location. Always check the latest price before booking.

How to Register

For Cambridge Exams

1. Visit the Cambridge Assessment English Malaysia website.

2. Choose your exam type (FCE, CAE, or CPE).

3. Select an authorized test center.

4. Submit online registration and payment.

5. Receive your exam confirmation email.

For PTE Academic

1. Go to the official PTE Academic website.

2. Create a Pearson account.

3. Choose your preferred test center and date.

4. Pay the exam fee online.

5. Check email for confirmation and test instructions.

Preparation Tips for Cambridge and PTE Exams

For Cambridge

• Take sample tests from the Cambridge official website.

• Practice writing tasks (essays, letters, reports) under timed conditions.

• Review grammar, phrasal verbs, and vocabulary lists for your level.

• Watch English TV shows or podcasts to improve listening comprehension.

For PTE

• Familiarize yourself with the computer interface and AI scoring system.

• Focus on fluency and pronunciation—the microphone records your speech.

• Practice integrated tasks (e.g., summarize spoken text, describe image).

• Use the PTE Official Practice App or online mock tests.

Acceptance in Malaysia and Abroad

Cambridge English

• Recognized by universities in the UK, Europe, Australia, and Asia.

• Some Malaysian universities (like Taylor’s, Sunway, and Monash Malaysia) accept it for admission.

PTE Academic

• Accepted by most Australian and New Zealand universities for both academic and immigration purposes.

• Increasingly accepted in Canada and the UK.

• Recognized by private institutions and government bodies in Malaysia.

Advantages of Taking the Exam in Malaysia

• Affordable testing fees compared to other countries

• Frequent test dates (especially for PTE)

• Easy online registration and quick results

• Access to official preparation courses at Malaysian English schools

Preparation Courses and Study Options

Many language centers in Malaysia offer preparation courses for Cambridge and PTE exams.

Recommended Centers

• British Council Malaysia – Offers Cambridge and PTE preparation classes

• ELS Language Centers – Cambridge English courses

• EMS Language Centre – PTE Academic preparation

• Asia Pacific Language Centre (APLC) – Offers tailored English exam programs

These centers provide both short-term intensive programs and long-term academic preparation.

How Long Does It Take to Prepare?

• Cambridge Exams: Typically 2–3 months of focused study per level

• PTE Academic: 4–8 weeks of consistent practice for familiarization with the test format

Preparation time depends on your current proficiency level and study habits.

Getting Results and Certificates

Cambridge English

• Results released within 2–4 weeks after the test

• Certificates mailed to your home or available for pickup

PTE Academic

• Results available online in 1–5 days

• Digital scores can be directly sent to universities or visa authorities

Final Thoughts

Both Cambridge English and PTE Academic are excellent choices for proving English proficiency in Malaysia. If you value a traditional, human-evaluated test with lifelong validity, Cambridge is ideal. If you prefer a faster, fully digital experience with global recognition, PTE might be better.

Before deciding, check the specific language requirements of your target institution or visa program. With Malaysia’s growing number of accredited test centers, taking either exam locally is convenient, affordable, and efficient.

What are the Cambridge English exams and PTE Academic?

Cambridge English Qualifications (e.g., B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency) are level-based exams aligned to the CEFR (A1–C2) and assessed by trained human examiners. PTE Academic is a fully computer-delivered test scored using AI on the Global Scale of English (10–90). Both assess reading, writing, listening, and speaking for study, work, or migration.

Which test is better for me: Cambridge or PTE?

Choose Cambridge if you prefer a traditional, task-based exam with face-to-face speaking and a certificate that does not expire. Choose PTE if you want fast, flexible testing with quick results and AI scoring. Your decision should primarily follow the score/type required by your target university, employer, or visa authority.

Are these exams accepted in Malaysia and internationally?

Yes. Malaysian universities and private institutions commonly accept both, with program-specific score requirements. Internationally, Cambridge is widely recognized across Europe, the UK, and many global institutions. PTE is accepted by thousands of universities worldwide and by several governments for student visas and skilled migration. Always confirm acceptance and minimum scores with your specific destination.

How do I register in Malaysia?

For Cambridge: choose your level, find an authorized local center, pick a date (paper- or computer-based if available), and complete payment. For PTE: create a Pearson account, select a Malaysian test center and time slot, and pay online. You will receive email confirmations and test-day instructions.

What identification do I need on test day?

A valid, original government-issued photo ID (often a passport for international candidates) is required. The name on your registration must exactly match the ID. Photocopies or expired documents are not accepted. Arrive early to allow for check-in, palm or photo capture (for PTE), and security procedures.

How long are the exams and when do I get results?

Cambridge exam length varies by level; allow around 3.5–4 hours across multiple papers, with results typically released in a few weeks. PTE Academic takes about two hours in a single sitting, with results usually available within a few days. Check your confirmation for the most accurate timelines.

Do the scores expire?

Cambridge certificates do not have an official expiry, but institutions may set their own currency window (e.g., results within two years). PTE Academic score reports are typically considered valid for two years for admissions or immigration purposes. Always follow the policy of the receiving organization.

How are the exams scored?

Cambridge uses the Cambridge English Scale mapped to CEFR levels; performance across papers produces an overall grade and level statement. PTE uses AI-driven scoring on the Global Scale of English (10–90) across communicative and enabling skills. Both provide profile information to highlight strengths and areas to improve.

Can I convert scores between PTE, IELTS, and CEFR?

Institutions may publish their own equivalency tables. Broadly, Cambridge levels align directly to CEFR (e.g., B2, C1, C2). PTE offers score ranges associated with CEFR bands. Because policies differ, use official concordance guides only as reference and rely on the exact requirements of your target program or authority.

How much do the exams cost in Malaysia?

Fees vary by level, test center, and city. Cambridge fees differ between B2, C1, and C2; PTE has a standard test price with potential reschedule/no-show charges. Check the official registration portals or local centers for current pricing before booking, as fees may change during the year.

How often are test dates available?

Cambridge sessions run on scheduled dates set by centers, with additional computer-based windows in some locations. PTE offers frequent year-round slots because it is fully computer-delivered. If you have an application deadline, book as early as possible and plan backward from the date you must submit scores.

Can I reschedule or cancel my test?

Both exams allow changes subject to deadlines and fees. Cambridge policies differ by center; contact your center well in advance. PTE offers online rescheduling within the portal, with fees depending on how close you are to test day. Read the terms during registration to avoid unexpected costs.

What is test-day format like?

Cambridge includes separate papers (Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and face-to-face Speaking with an examiner). PTE delivers all sections on a computer in one session; Speaking is recorded via microphone. Arrive early, follow invigilator instructions, and bring only approved items into the room.

How should I prepare effectively?

Use official practice materials. For Cambridge, practice extended writing under time, build academic vocabulary and grammar, and attempt full-length past papers. For PTE, familiarize yourself with item types (e.g., Repeat Sentence, Describe Image, Summarize Spoken Text), practice with timed mocks, and work on fluency, pronunciation, and keyboard speed.

Can I retake the exam?

Yes. You can retake either exam as many times as needed, subject to availability and fees. For PTE, you may book another sitting once your score is released. For Cambridge, choose the next suitable session or computer-based window. Use feedback from your score report to target weak areas before retesting.

Are there accommodations for test takers with disabilities?

Yes. Both providers offer accommodations (e.g., extra time, assistive technology) with advance notice and documentation. Start the request process early—well before booking—so your center can confirm what is available and ensure everything is in place on test day.

Will speaking with a computer hurt my score in PTE?

No, provided you follow best practices. Speak clearly at a natural pace, avoid long silences, and use complete responses. The AI evaluates multiple features (content, fluency, pronunciation). Practicing with official item types and recording yourself can help you calibrate delivery and timing.

Does a Cambridge certificate help beyond admissions?

Yes. Cambridge certificates can be valuable for professional licensing, job applications, and long-term proof of proficiency because they do not expire. Employers may also recognize the specific level (e.g., C1 Advanced) as evidence of strong workplace communication skills.

What if my institution only lists IELTS scores?

Ask admissions whether they accept Cambridge or PTE equivalents; many do. If alternatives are not listed, request written clarification. If the institution requires a specific test only, follow that requirement. Always keep email confirmations for your records when applying with a non-listed exam.

How far in advance should I book?

Work backward from your application deadline, adding time for score release and potential retakes. Many candidates book six to eight weeks ahead for Cambridge sessions and two to four weeks ahead for PTE. Earlier booking improves your choice of dates, times, and locations.