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PTE Score for Australia 2025 - Minimum Score for Study, PR & Work

By Shivangi Mishra

Updated on Jun 24, 2025 | 1.53K+ views

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The PTE Academic exam is one of the most accepted English tests for people planning to go to Australia. It is approved by the Australian government for many visa types, including student visa, PR (Permanent Residency), and work visa.

Many Australian universities, TAFE colleges, and training providers also accept PTE scores for admission. The test checks your English skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening. Your PTE score plays a big role in whether you can get into a university or apply for a visa.

In this article, you will learn about the required PTE score for Australia, how it works for different visas, and some useful tips to reach your target score.

Is PTE Accepted for Australia?

Yes, the PTE exam is fully accepted in Australia for different purposes like study, permanent residency (PR), and work visas. The full name of the test is Pearson Test of English Academic, and it is approved by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) in Australia. This means you can use your PTE Academic score to apply for student visas, skilled migration, or even for work permits.

Many top Australian universities and colleges also accept PTE scores for admission into undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma courses. It is also accepted by TAFE institutions, private training providers, and even some professional bodies.

Here’s a quick list of who accepts PTE in Australia:

  • DHA (Department of Home Affairs) – PR, work visa, partner visa, etc.
  • Universities in AustraliaUniversity of Sydney, Monash, ANU, etc.
  • TAFE colleges – Diploma and vocational courses
  • Private colleges and education providers
  • Employers and skill assessment bodies, in some cases

Also Read: PTE Exam for Australia- A complete guide

Minimum PTE Score for Australia Student Visa

If you are planning to study in Australia, you must take the PTE Academic test, as it is the version accepted for student visas. Your PTE score must meet the minimum English requirement for the visa as well as the university or college you are applying to.

PTE Score for Undergraduate Courses in Australia

To get admission in most bachelor’s degree programs in Australia, you need a minimum PTE score of 50 overall, with no section less than 45. But some universities may ask for a higher score, depending on the course.

PTE Score for Postgraduate Courses in Australia

For master’s in Australia, the minimum required PTE score is usually 58 overall, and some universities or courses may need 65 or more, especially for programs like MBA, law, or education.

PTE Score for Diploma & Vocational Courses

If you are applying for a diploma or TAFE courses, then a minimum PTE score of 42 to 49 is often accepted. These courses are less strict with the score, but it depends on the college and program.

University-Specific Variations

Every university in Australia has its own PTE cut-off score. For example, top universities like the University of Melbourne, UNSW, or the Australian National University may need a higher PTE Academic score than smaller colleges. Always check the official site of the university for exact details.

Also Read: Full Guide on PTE Exam Eligibility 2025 - upGrad

What is the PTE Score for Australia PR?

What PTE score is needed for Australia PR? International candidates who are not from countries like the USA, UK, Canada, New Zealand, or Ireland, must show proof of English language skills to apply for Australia Permanent Residency (PR).

The PTE Academic exam is accepted for Australia PR by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). The PR system in Australia is points-based. 

English Level PTE Score Needed PR Points
Functional English Total score of at least 30 overall Not eligible
Vocational English 36 in each of the 4 test parts Not eligible
Competent English At least 50 in each section (but less than 65) 0 points, but you can apply for PR
Proficient English At least 65 in each of the 4 parts (but less than 79) 10 points
Superior English At least 79 in each of the 4 test parts 20 points

Read: Top PR Courses in Australia for 2025 | Eligibility & Scope

PTE Score for Australian Work Visa

If you want to go to Australia for work, you need to show that your English level is good enough. For this, you can give the PTE Academic exam. It is accepted for both temporary and permanent work visas, including employer-sponsored visas.

Your PTE score must match the English level needed for your visa type. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) checks your score based on these English language levels:

English Level Minimum PTE Score Purpose / Visa Type
Functional English Overall score of 30 (no section rule) Used for partner or dependent visas, not valid for most skilled or work visas
Vocational English Minimum 36 in each section Needed for some trades and temporary work visas (e.g., subclass 482)
Competent English Minimum 50 in each section Required for most Employer Sponsored Visas and Skilled Work Visas
Proficient English Minimum 65 in each section Gives 10 PR points, helps with skilled migration and permanent work visa
Superior English Minimum 79 in each section Gives 20 PR points, best for permanent skilled jobs and higher visa ranking

PTE Score Table for Australia Visa Categories

If you are planning to move to Australia, either for study, work, PR, or even as a partner, you need to prove your English skills. One of the most accepted tests is the PTE Academic. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) accepts it for almost all Australian visa types.

Visa Type Minimum PTE Academic Score Required Details / Notes
Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) Overall 50, no section below 45 May change depending on the university or course type
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) 50 in each section Needed for students who want to stay after studying
Skilled Independent PR (Subclass 189) 50 in each section (Competent English) No PR points, but required to apply
Skilled Nominated PR (Subclass 190) 65 or 79 in each for extra PR points 10 or 20 points for Proficient or Superior English
Employer Sponsored Visa (Subclass 482) 42 to 50 in each, depending on job Some jobs ask for Vocational or Competent English
Permanent Work Visa (Subclass 186) Minimum 50 in each section Competent English needed, no PR points
Partner Visa (Subclasses 820 & 801) Functional English (Overall 30) Can also prove English by citizenship or other options
Parent / Family Visas Functional English (Overall 30) May need to pay extra if English is not proven
Business Innovation Visa (Subclass 188) Usually 30–50 overall, varies by state Some states ask for higher taxes depending on business type

PTE to IELTS Score Comparison for Australia

Many students and visa applicants get confused between PTE scores and IELTS bands. Both are accepted by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).

PTE Academic vs IELTS Band Score Table

PTE Academic Score IELTS Band Equivalent
85 – 90 9.0 Band
83 – 85 8.5 Band
74 – 82 8.0 Band
66 – 73 7.5 Band
58 – 65 7.0 Band
50 – 57 6.5 Band
42 – 49 6.0 Band
35 – 41 5.5 Band
30 – 34 5.0 Band

How to Send PTE Scores to Australian Institutions or Immigration?

All candidates must send their PTE scores to their desired universities, employer, or visa authorities, to apply for higher studies, immigration, or work opportunities in Australia

Steps to Send PTE Scores to Australia

  1. Log in to your PTE account
    • Visit the Pearson PTE website
    • Sign in using your email ID and password.
  2. Go to “My Scores”
    • Once logged in, click on “View Scores” or “Send Scores”.
  3. Select the Australian Institution or DHA
    • Use the search bar to find your university, college, or choose “Department of Home Affairs” for visa use.
    • You can send scores to multiple universities for free.
  4. Confirm and Submit
    • Review the selected organisations.
    • Click on “Next” or “Submit” to send the scores.
  5. Check for Confirmation: You will get a confirmation on your screen. Sometimes, a confirmation email is also sent.

Tips to Achieve Required PTE Score for Australia

Here are some simple tips to help you score better in PTE exam.

1. Know the PTE Format Well: Before starting anything, learn how the PTE test works. There are four parts – Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. Each part has different question types.

2. Practice Speaking Every Day: For many students, speaking is the hardest part.

  • Try to speak English daily with friends or family.
  • Record your answers and listen to your own voice.
  • Focus on clear pronunciation, not speed.

3. Work on Time Management: The PTE test is computer-based and has timed sections.

  • Don’t spend too much time on one question.
  • Practice using mock tests with timers.

4. Improve Vocabulary and Grammar: You don’t need tough English, but your words and grammar must be correct.

  • Read English news, blogs, or books.
  • Make a notebook of new words and use them in writing or speaking.

5. Use Official PTE Practice Materials: There are many practice materials online, but use official PTE sources too.

  • Pearson provides free sample tests.
  • Also try PTE practice apps or coaching if needed.

6. Focus on Each Section One by One: Don’t try to master everything in one day.

  • Start with your weakest section.
  • For example, if your reading is low, spend 1 week only on that.

7. Review Your Mistakes: Every time you practice, check your mistakes. Learning from mistakes is the best way to improve.

8. Take Mock Tests Before the Real Exam: Try to take at least 2 full mock tests before the real exam. It helps you feel less nervous and gives an idea of your current score.

Explore programs and Universities in Australia:

Conclusion 

The minimum PTE score for Australia in 2025 depends on your goal. For most student visas, you need at least PTE 42–50 overall, but top universities may ask for PTE 58–65 or higher for some courses.

For skilled migration (PR), you usually need PTE 50 for “competent English,” PTE 65 for “proficient English,” and PTE 79 for “superior English”. 

Some jobs or courses might need higher scores in each section (Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening). Always check the exact PTE requirement for your university, course, or visa type.

If you need help with PTE preparation, university selection, or the visa process, talk to upGrad experts.

FAQs

Is PTE accepted for Australia student visa?

What is the minimum PTE score for an Australian student visa?

What PTE score is needed for PR in Australia?

Is PTE score valid for Australian work visa?

How long is the PTE score valid for Australia?

Can I use PTE to apply for Australian citizenship?

What is the minimum PTE score for postgraduate studies in Australia?

How to send PTE scores to Australian immigration?

Can I send PTE scores to multiple Australian universities?

What PTE score gives points for Australia PR?

Is PTE easier than IELTS for Australia?

Can I retake the PTE exam for Australia PR?

Which universities in Australia accept PTE?

What is Functional English in PTE for Australia?

Can I use PTE Core instead of PTE Academic for Australia?

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Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor |279 articles published

She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them w...

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