PTE · Respond to a Situation

References and Recommendations: PTE Respond to a Situation practice questions

5 original Respond to a Situation questions. Question 1 is free to record, play back and compare with a sample answer right here; log in free to practise the rest in the BandLadder app.
  • 5 questions
  • Question 1 free, no login
  • PTE Academic and PTE Core
1

Academic Reference Extension Request

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Read and listen to the situation below. You have 10 seconds to prepare (20 in PTE Core), then 40 seconds to say what you would say. Answer as fully as you can.

You are applying for a postgraduate scholarship with a Friday deadline. Your academic tutor agreed to write your reference letter, but you notice they have not submitted it yet. Speak to your tutor, politely reminding them about the deadline and offering any details they might still need. What would you say to your tutor?

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Questions 2–5

Read and listen to the situation below. You have 10 seconds to prepare (20 in PTE Core), then 40 seconds to say what you would say. Answer as fully as you can.

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2

Declining Colleague Reference Request

A former colleague asks you to provide an urgent character reference for a senior management position. However, you only worked together briefly on one short project and do not feel qualified to assess their leadership skills. Speak to your colleague, declining the request politely and explaining your reasons. What would you say to your colleague?

3

Tenant Landlord Reference Request

You are moving into a new rented flat next month and your prospective agency requires a reference from your current landlord. You have lived in your flat for two years and always paid rent on time. Speak to your landlord to request this reference and explain the required timeframe. What would you say to your landlord?

4

Course Literature Recommendation

A classmate is struggling to find good secondary sources for an upcoming history essay due on Monday. You recently found two helpful journal articles in the university library that clarify the topic well. Speak to your classmate, recommending these readings and explaining how to access them. What would you say to your classmate?

5

Professional Endorsement Request

You recently finished a successful six-month internship at an architectural firm. You are now applying for graduate jobs and want your project manager to act as a professional referee. Speak to your manager, asking for their permission to list their contact details on your applications. What would you say to your manager?

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