Ten test changes from 2025 and 2026 that candidates in Pakistan should know

Several major tests changed during 2025 and 2026. If you prepared from older books or advice, check that you are ready for the current version. Each point below links to the test owner's own information.

• TOEFL iBT: from 21 January 2026 the test is adaptive, about 90 minutes long, and reports scores on a 1–6 scale, with a matching 0–120 score shown during a transition period to January 2028.
• PTE Academic: two new speaking tasks were added from 7 August 2025, bringing the test to 22 question types.
• LanguageCert: from 6 July 2025 the four-skill ESOL SELT was replaced by LanguageCert Academic SELT and General SELT for UK visa purposes.
• LSAT: from the August 2026 test, the LSAT is taken in person at Prometric test centres for nearly all candidates, instead of remotely.
• USMLE: international medical graduates now apply through FSMB rather than ECFMG (from 12 January 2026), and the Step 2 CK passing score is 218.
• MRCP(UK) Part 1: moved to computer-based delivery at test centres in 2026. Karachi and Lahore are on the Federation's list of international centres.
• ACT: from September 2025 the Science section is optional, and the Composite score uses English, Maths and Reading only.
• SAT: a single USD 43 international fee replaced regional fees from August 2025.
• PLAB 1: from February 2027 the GMC will run fewer overseas sittings and close some overseas venues. Pakistan is not among the venues reported to close.
• PMP: a new exam launched in July 2026, with 180 questions in 240 minutes, including case-study questions.

Rules and fees change often. Always confirm the details on the official website before you book, and read our test pages for a full summary of each test.