To secure Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia, a PTE Academic score of 65+ is mandatory. Higher scores contribute to achieving 189–190 points for eligibility under visa programs like the Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) visas. PR applicants must be under 45 years old and demonstrate strong English proficiency. The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program requires PTE scores to assess language skills in Listening, Writing, Speaking, and Reading.
Focus on achieving high scores to enhance your chances of obtaining PR and starting a bright career in Australia.
Must Read: Australia Launches Priority Visa System for Select Universities
PTE Score for Australia Visa Categories 2025
According to the High Commission of India, 122,391 students travelled to study in Australia in recent years. For Indian applicants aiming for Permanent Residency (PR), demonstrating English language proficiency through PTE Academic is a critical requirement.
- Primary Applicants: Must provide proof of competent English proficiency.
- Secondary Applicants: Need to demonstrate a functional English ability.
Also Read: Australia Work Visa
Below are the Australian permanent residency visa categories requiring competent English language proof:
| Type of Visa | Subclass |
|---|---|
| General Skilled Migration | Skilled Independent (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) |
| Permanent Employer Sponsor | Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187), Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) |

| Demonstrating the required PTE proficiency level is key to successfully obtaining these visas. |
PTE Academic Score Requirements for Australia PR
To meet Australia PR requirements, achieving specific PTE Academic scores across different modules is essential. Each section—Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking—has distinct score benchmarks depending on your required level of English proficiency.
PTE Academic Score Requirements by Proficiency Level:
The table below shows the PTE score requirements for various levels of English proficiency, including functional, vocational, competent, and proficient.
| Level of English Proficiency | Test Module | Required PTE Academic Score |
|---|---|---|
| Functional | Total Score | 30 |
| Vocational | Reading | 36 |
| Writing | 36 | |
| Listening | 36 | |
| Speaking | 36 | |
| Competent | Reading | 50 |
| Writing | 50 | |
| Listening | 50 | |
| Speaking | 50 | |
| Proficient | Reading | 65 |
| Writing | 65 | |
| Listening | 65 | |
| Speaking | 65 | |
| Superior | Reading | 79 |
| Writing | 79 | |
| Listening | 79 | |
| Speaking | 79 |
PTE Score for Australian PR Points:
Your PTE Academic score also determines the number of points you earn for skilled migration visas:
| English Language Skills | PTE Score for PR Points | Points Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| Competent | 50+ | 0 |
| Proficient | 65+ | 10 |
| Superior | 79+ | 20 |
Additional Insights:
- A PTE score of 58 may be sufficient for admission to level 1 and 2 universities, but 65+ is mandatory for skilled migration visas.
- Scores below the required threshold can lead to visa rejection. Proper preparation through coaching centers and targeted practice in vocabulary, essay writing, and test strategies is crucial for success.
Also Read
PTE Score Validity for Australia PR
The PTE Academic score for Australia PR is valid for 3 years from the test date. After this period, applicants must retake the exam to ensure their English proficiency is up to date. Understanding when to provide your PTE score for PR applications is critical, as different visa subclasses have specific requirements.
Check: PTE Eligibility
PTE Validity by Visa Subclass:
| Australia Visa Subclass | When to Provide | PTE Score Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) | By the time of application | Not more than 3 years before the application date |
| Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (Subclass 187) – Temporary Residence Transition Stream | By the time of application | Not more than 3 years before the application date |
| Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (Subclass 188) (Entrepreneur Stream) | By the time of invitation | Not more than 3 years before the invitation date |
| Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) (Points-tested stream) | By the time of invitation | Not more than 3 years before the invitation date |
| Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) | By the time of invitation | Not more than 3 years before the invitation date |
| Skilled Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 489) (First Provisional Stream) | By the time of invitation | Not more than 3 years before the invitation date |
| Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 491) | By the time of invitation | Not more than 3 years before the invitation date |
| Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 494) | By the time of application | Not more than 3 years before the application date |
Also Check: PTE Exam Pattern
How to Increase Australia PR Points?
Achieving a PTE score above 80 can significantly boost your chances of securing PR in Australia. With a structured preparation plan and focused effort, scoring high is achievable. Below are key tips to help you succeed.

Also Check: PTE Band score
To make a successful PR application, meeting the PTE score requirements is essential. Through consistent practice and effective preparation, you can achieve high scores and smoothly navigate the process to immigrate to Australia.
FAQs
Ques. Can I combine multiple PTE test scores for Australia PR?
Ans. No, you cannot combine scores from multiple PTE exams. For Australia PR, only the scores from a single test attempt are considered valid.
Ques. How long does it take to receive PTE Academic scores?
Ans. PTE Academic results are typically available within 48 hours of completing the test. Make sure to plan accordingly when applying for visas or universities.
Ques. Can I use my expired PTE score for PR applications?
Ans. No, you cannot use an expired PTE score for PR applications. The score must be valid within 3 years of the application or invitation date.
Ques. Are there any exemptions from PTE requirements for an Australian PR?
Ans. Yes, applicants from countries where English is the primary language or who hold specific qualifications from Australian institutions may be exempt from providing PTE scores.
Ques. Is a PTE score of 65 enough for all PR visa subclasses?
Ans. A PTE score of 65 is sufficient for most PR visas. However, certain streams or occupations may require higher scores, such as Proficient (65+) or Superior (79+).
Ques. What is the difference between PTE Academic and PTE Academic UKVI?
Ans. PTE Academic is accepted for Australian PR and academic purposes, while PTE Academic UKVI is specifically designed to meet the UK visa and immigration requirements.
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.

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