PTE Essay Predictions May 2026 — 16 Topics + Sample Answers

Below are the 16 most-likely PTE Academic essay prompts for May 2026, drawn from April 2026 reported test-centre exits across Nepal, India, the Philippines, and Australia. These are practice prompts — Pearson rotates its essay bank, but the same themes (education, work, climate, media, technology) recur month after month with rephrased wording. Treat this list as your 20-minute timed-practice set for the next two weeks.

Sample answers for two of the prompts (a full 250-word essay each, with thesis, body paragraphs, conclusion, and rubric notes) appear at the bottom of this page after the question list.

How to use this list

Set a 20-minute timer and write one essay from cold. No notes, no edits.
Target 270–300 words across five paragraphs: intro, three body, conclusion. Under 200 = length penalty. Over 300 = wasted time.
Pick a clear position in the intro. Don't sit on the fence — the algorithm scores "development" on whether you take a stance and defend it.
Always end the intro with one preview sentence: "primarily because [reason 1] and [reason 2]." This sets up the body paragraphs and lifts your written-discourse score.

The 16 essay questions

Question 1

It is harder for children living in the 21st century than that in the past. Do you agree or disagree?

Question 2

In the future, people will work fewer hours at their jobs. To what extent do you agree with it? Please support your opinion with your own experience.

Question 3

Mass media, including TV and newspapers, have a great influence on humans, particularly on the younger generation. It can shape people's opinions. What is your opinion?

Question 4

As cities are expanding, some people claim governments should look forward to creating better networks of public transportation available for everyone rather than building more roads for vehicle-owning population. What's your opinion? Give some examples or experience to support.

Question 5

How does the design of buildings impact the quality of life in the places where people live and work, both positively and negatively?

Question 6

Some people believe that online education is more effective and convenient than traditional classroom learning, while others argue that face-to-face education provides better interaction and understanding. Discuss both views and give examples based on your own experience.

Question 7

People often choose to study abroad in search of better educational opportunities, while others believe that quality education can be obtained within one's own country. Do you agree or disagree?

Question 8

Some believe the value of travel is overrated. "One brilliant scholar never leaves the home base." People argue whether travel is or is not a necessary component of quality education. To what extent do you agree with it?