Ape University: Pros and Cons for PTE Preparation

When it comes to preparing for the PTE (Pearson Test of English), Ape University is a popular choice among students. I think it is a useful part of preparation but like anything, it has its ups and downs. Here’s my take on it.

Pros:

1. Familiarisation with the Test Environment: One of the biggest advantages of Ape University is that it helps you get used to the PTE test environment. This can really help reduce anxiety and make sure you don’t waste time figuring out prompts during the actual test. This is my number one reason for suggesting students log on to it.
2. Real Test Prompts: Okay, this is a small proportion of the prompts and a bit of lottery, but it seems someone who works in some ‘high security’ Pearson centre in some country…. has been screen shooting the test and send it to Ape Uni from time to time. They don’t have the answers or the real scores, but they have the questions! Numerous candidates have reported recognising questions in the real test from practice they have done at Ape Uni.
3. Reading Gap Fills Hack- this leads on from the previous point that same prompts are lifted from real tests. While it is hard for Ape Uni to imitate the scoring on speaking and writing as it is a scaled secret formula that Pearson use, the gap fills (the hardest part of the test for many people) are correct or incorrect, so here the answer are accurate, and there is a chance the same question will come up in the test.
4. Convenience: It’s online and accessible anytime, anywhere. Perfect for those of us with busy schedules.
5. Budget-Friendly: Compared to official prep courses, Ape University is easier on the wallet.

Cons:

1. No Pearson AI: Ape University doesn’t have access to Pearson’s AI for scoring. This means the results might not be as accurate as you’d like. For instance, I’ve done PTE numerous times and always got a 90 in the speaking, but I get a very mixed bag or results at Ape Uni, sometimes even a fail!
2. Misleading Results: The site is run by non-native speakers who aren’t exam experts. This can lead to feedback that’s not always reliable. For instance, the way the overscore template type answers on summaries and essays is simply inaccurate and misleading.
3. Copyright Issues: There’s a bit of a grey area here. Ape University uses some materials that are, well, let’s say, not exactly theirs. This raises ethical concerns.
4. Lack of Expert Guidance: Unlike official courses, you might miss out on expert advice and personalized feedback, which can be crucial for improving your performance.

In a nutshell, Ape University can be a handy tool for getting familiar with the PTE test environment and question types. I suggest PTE candidates use it to practice the reading section with a chance they will have the same questions in the real test. (It’s not ethical but if everyone else is doing it, and you don’t, you are putting yourself at a disadvantage. And in any case, Pearson’s should be looking at the security of the test and updating it more often).

But outside of reading, it’s great to practice timing and understanding prompts quickly, but remember that the scores it gives are questionable.

So, be aware of its limitations, but exploit its assets whilst considering supplementing your study with other sources.

Link: apeuni