Learn how to calculate your skilled migration points in 2025, including PTE Academic score requirements. Step-by-step guide, tips, and FAQs.
Introduction
Australia’s skilled migration program is highly competitive, with only the highest-scoring candidates receiving invitations. In 2025, you need a minimum of 65 points to qualify for visas like subclass 189, 190, or 491. This guide explains how to calculate your skilled migration points, including how your PTE Academic scores convert to migration points.
Understanding the Skilled Migration Points System
Australia uses a transparent points-based system to assess skilled migration applicants. Points are awarded for factors such as age, English proficiency (IELTS or PTE Academic), skilled work experience, education, and additional criteria. The higher your total, the better your chance of receiving an invitation for permanent residency.
Key points categories:
- Age: Up to 30 points (best for ages 25–32)
- English Language Ability:Â Up to 20 points (IELTS or PTE Academic)
- Skilled Work Experience:Â Up to 20 points
- Qualifications:Â Up to 20 points
- Other Factors:Â Partner skills, Australian study, regional study, community language, and more
The minimum pass mark is 65 points, but successful applicants often score higher.
Step-by-Step Guide: Calculating Your Points (Including PTE Academic Scores)
1. Age
| Age Range | Points |
|---|---|
| 18–24 | 25 |
| 25–32 | 30 |
| 33–39 | 25 |
| 40–44 | 15 |
| 45+ | 0 |
2. English Language Proficiency (IELTS & PTE Academic)
| Level | IELTS Score (each band) | PTE Academic Score (each band) | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Superior | 8.0+ | 79+ | 20 |
| Proficient | 7.0+ | 65+ | 10 |
| Competent | 6.0+ | 50+ | 0 |
- Superior English: IELTS 8.0+ or PTE Academic 79+ in each component (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) – 20 points
- Proficient English: IELTS 7.0+ or PTE Academic 65+ in each component – 10 points
- Competent English: IELTS 6.0+ or PTE Academic 50+ in each component – 0 points (required for eligibility but no points awarded)
3. Overseas Skilled Work Experience (Last 10 Years)
| Years of Experience | Points |
|---|---|
| 3–5 | 5 |
| 5–8 | 10 |
| 8+ | 15 |
4. Australian Skilled Work Experience (Last 10 Years)
| Years of Experience | Points |
|---|---|
| 1–2 | 5 |
| 3–4 | 10 |
| 5–7 | 15 |
| 8+ | 20 |
Maximum combined work experience points: 20
5. Educational Qualifications
| Qualification | Points |
|---|---|
| Doctorate (PhD) | 20 |
| Bachelor/Master | 15 |
| Diploma/Trade | 10 |
6. Australian Study Requirement
- 5 points for at least 2 years of study in Australia
7. Specialist Education Qualification
- 10 points for a Master’s or Doctorate by research in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or ICT
8. Partner Skills
- 10 points if your partner meets age, English (PTE 50+), and skills requirements
- 5 points if your partner has only competent English (PTE 50+)
9. Other Factors
- Accredited community language: 5 points
- Professional Year in Australia: 5 points
- Regional study in Australia: 5 points
10. Nomination/Sponsorship
- 5 points for state/territory nomination (subclass 190)
- 15 points for regional nomination (subclass 491)
Tip:Â Use the official Department of Home Affairs points calculator or reputable migration tools to tally your total score.
How to Maximize Your Skilled Migration Points
- Improve your PTE Academic or IELTS score: Achieving a higher band (PTE 79+ or IELTS 8+) can add 10–20 points.
- Increase skilled work experience:Â Both Australian and overseas experience count toward your total.
- Upgrade your qualifications:Â Higher degrees mean more points.
- Leverage partner points:Â If your partner is eligible, include their skills and English results (PTE 50+ minimum).
- Seek state or regional nomination: Adds 5–15 valuable points.
- Complete a Professional Year or community language credential:Â Each can add 5 points.
While 65 points is the minimum, aim for the highest possible score to maximize your invitation chances.
Conclusion
Calculating your skilled migration points in 2025—including your PTE Academic score—is crucial for Australian PR eligibility. Assess each category honestly, use official calculators, and look for every opportunity to increase your score. Start early and seek expert advice to maximize your chances of receiving an invitation.
