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.
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.
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)
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.
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
Log in to your PTE account
Visit the Pearson PTE website
Sign in using your email ID and password.
Go to “My Scores”
Once logged in, click on “View Scores” or “Send Scores”.
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.
Confirm and Submit
Review the selected organisations.
Click on “Next” or “Submit” to send the scores.
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.
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?
Yes, PTE Academic is accepted for student visas by the Australian government and most universities, colleges, and TAFE institutions.
What is the minimum PTE score for an Australian student visa?
Usually, you need an overall PTE score of 50, and no section below 45, but the exact score may change depending on your course or university.
What PTE score is needed for PR in Australia?
For Australia PR, you need at least 50 in each section (Competent English). Higher scores like 65 or 79 can get you 10 or 20 PR points.
Is PTE score valid for Australian work visa?
Yes, PTE scores are accepted for work visas, including temporary and permanent employer-sponsored visas. Score requirements change based on the visa type.
How long is the PTE score valid for Australia?
Your PTE score is valid for 2 years from the test date when applying for visa or university admission in Australia.
Can I use PTE to apply for Australian citizenship?
No, PTE is not accepted for citizenship applications. You must meet the specific English test requirement given by Home Affairs.
What is the minimum PTE score for postgraduate studies in Australia?
Most postgraduate courses need at least 58–65 overall. Some programs like MBA, Law, or Education may need even more.
How to send PTE scores to Australian immigration?
Log in to your PTE account, go to “Send Scores,” and choose “Department of Home Affairs” or the required university.
Can I send PTE scores to multiple Australian universities?
Yes, you can send PTE scores to multiple institutions in Australia for free through your online PTE account.
What PTE score gives points for Australia PR?
65 in each section = 10 PR points (Proficient English)
79 in each section = 20 PR points (Superior English)
Is PTE easier than IELTS for Australia?
It depends. Many students feel that PTE is easier because it’s computer-based and less stressful. But choose what suits your strengths.
Can I retake the PTE exam for Australia PR?
Yes, you can retake the test if you're not happy with your score. There's no limit on the number of times you can take the PTE test.
Which universities in Australia accept PTE?
Almost all top universities accept it, like the University of Melbourne, UNSW, ANU, Monash, and many more.
What is Functional English in PTE for Australia?
It means an overall score of 30. This is enough for partner or parent visas, but not valid for PR or work visas.
Can I use PTE Core instead of PTE Academic for Australia?
No, Australia only accepts PTE Academic for visa, study, and PR. PTE Core is not valid for these purposes in Australia.
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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