PTE Score for Australia: Minimum Score Required for PR, Student, and Work Visa in 2025
Australia is a top choice for international students seeking a world-class education and excellent career opportunities. Moreover, Indian students form the country’s second-largest source of international students. If you plan to study in Australia, demonstrating proficiency in English is essential. Knowing the PTE score required for Australia becomes necessary if you wish to appear for the exam. This guide aims to break down how much score is required in PTE for Australia based on your objective.
What is PTE?
The PTE is a computer-based English language proficiency test designed for non-native speakers. The exam evaluates four core skills: speaking, writing, reading, and listening, providing a comprehensive assessment of English proficiency.
Developed by Pearson, the PTE Academic has become a popular choice due to its accessibility, and reliable scoring system. It has a wide acceptance rate in countries like Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. With these advantages, the PTE has become a preferred choice for students applying to study in Australia. The PTE syllabus is designed to cover a range of tasks and question types, ensuring a thorough evaluation of language skills across real-life scenarios.
Key Features of PTE
Here are a few important features of the PTE examination:
- Computer-Based and AI-Scored: The PTE uses AI technology for scoring, making it less subjective than other English tests. This feature ensures accurate and unbiased scores.
- Flexible Scheduling and Quick Results: PTE offers flexible test dates and quick score reporting, usually within 48 hours, which is advantageous for applicants on tight schedules.
- Global Acceptance: PTE scores are accepted by thousands of universities worldwide, government organizations, and visa departments, especially in Australia, where it’s recognized for study, work, and PR applications.
Pro Tip: Contact a study abroad consultant to learn more about the PTE examination.
Minimum PTE Score Required for Australia: Complete Overview
PTE score requirements for Australia vary depending on the purpose of your application. The Australian government, universities, and employers each have specific score requirements based on the proficiency level needed for study, work, or residency. We have discussed these requirements in detail below:
1. PTE Score Required for Admission at Universities in Australia
The required PTE score for Australian universities can depend on the university and the program. Generally, undergraduate programs require an intermediate level, while postgraduate programs and specialized courses may demand higher scores. Most Australian universities have section-wise minimum requirements, meaning you’ll need to achieve a certain score in each skill area — speaking, writing, reading, and listening. This ensures that applicants possess a balanced proficiency in all aspects of English. The PTE exam pattern includes a mix of multiple-choice questions, essay writing, and speaking tasks designed to assess a wide range of language skills.
Here’s a table highlighting the general PTE requirement for Australia at some leading universities.
| University | QS World Ranking | Minimum PTE Score for Australia University |
|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | #13 | 64 |
| University of Sydney | #18 | 68 |
| University of New South Wales | #19 | 64 |
| Australian National University | #30 | 64 |
| Monash University | #37 | 58 |
| University of Queensland | #40 | 64 |
| University of Adelaide | #82 | 50 |
Note: Some universities offer the top MBA programs in Australia. For more information, refer to our top MBA universities in Australia blog.
2. PTE Score for Australia Student Visa
A Subclass 500 visa is a temporary visa valid for up to 5 years, allowing individuals to study in Australia. To apply for an Australian student visa, a minimum PTE Academic score of 42 is required. However, a score of 36 may be accepted if the candidate attends at least 10 weeks of English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS), and a minimum score of 30 is accepted if the student completes 20 weeks of ELICOS.
It’s important to note that some universities or courses might require a higher PTE score depending on the academic program. Therefore, it is essential to check the specific requirements of the institution you are applying to, as they may exceed the visa threshold.
A few key points for Subclass 500 Visa:
- Accepted English tests include PTE Academic, IELTS, and TOEFL.
- You must provide a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria.
- Additional requirements include proof of funds, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and a valid passport.
3. PTE Score for Australia Work Visa
For skilled immigrant work visas in Australia, the PTE Academic score requirements depend on the visa type and the English language proficiency level needed. These visas attract skilled workers who can contribute to Australia’s economy. Generally, applicants must meet one of the following proficiency levels:
Below is the list of the minimum PTE scores for an Australia work visa:
| Level of English Proficiency | Minimum PTE Score for Australia Work Visa |
|---|---|
| Competent English | 50 |
| Proficient English | 65 |
| Superior English | 79 |
Note: It is advisable to verify specific PTE requirements for Australia as per your chosen visa category, as some roles or institutions may have additional criteria. Also, be aware of your cost of living in Australia to make better choices while planning for your visa.
4. PTE Score for Australia PR
Applying for permanent residency (PR) in Australia requires meeting a certain level of English proficiency, as it impacts the points-based immigration system. The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, under which the PR process falls, awards additional points to candidates with proficient or superior English skills. Achieving a higher PTE score improves your profile and boosts your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for PR.
Here’s a table outlining the PTE score required for Australian PR:
| PR Application Type | Level of English Proficiency | Minimum PTE Score for Australia PR |
|---|---|---|
| General Skilled Migration | Competent English | 50 |
| Subclass 186 | Competent English | 50 |
| Subclass 187 | Competent English | 50 |
| Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) | Proficient English | 65 |
| Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) | Superior English | 65+ |
Conclusion
The PTE score required for Australia is of great importance for anyone seeking to study, work, or live in Australia. The score requirements vary depending on your goal, be it university admission, a work visa, or permanent residency. As the competition for visas and university seats continues to grow, meeting and exceeding the minimum PTE scores can significantly enhance your profile. For students, securing a higher score may lead to acceptance into prestigious programs, while professionals may benefit from improved job opportunities. For those aiming for PR, a higher PTE score can lead to more immigration points, speeding up the journey toward permanent residency in Australia.
If you want to pursue an MBA in Australia, you are surely making a good decision. For more information, check out our blog on MBA in Australia.
FAQs
Answer: To obtain an Australian student visa (Subclass 500), the minimum required PTE score is generally 42. However, universities often set their own higher requirements, especially for competitive programs.
Answer: Yes, the PTE is accepted for both types of visas, with varying minimum score requirements. Generally, a student visa requires 42+, while work visas require 50+, depending on the job’s communication demands.
Answer: Most postgraduate programs in Australia require a PTE score of 58 to 65. However, certain fields or universities might have higher requirements due to the specialized nature of the coursework.
