How Many PTE Points Do You Need for Australia PR in 2025?
Securing Australian Permanent Residency (PR) is a major aspiration for many Indian students and professionals aiming for a global career. Achieving the right PTE score for Australia PR is a crucial step to make this dream a reality in 2025. Understanding the latest requirements, knowing how PTE compares to IELTS, and keeping track of PR points rules is essential for a successful application.
PTE Score Requirements for Australia PR 2025: At a Glance
- Competent English: PTE 50 (Equivalent: IELTS 6.0)
- Proficient English: PTE 65 (Equivalent: IELTS 7.0, earns 10 PR points)
- Superior English: PTE 79 (Equivalent: IELTS 8.0, earns 20 PR points)
- PTE Validity: Scores accepted from tests taken within last 3 years
- Accepted for: Skilled visas (subclass 189, 190, 491, 186, and more)
Exam Highlights – Australia PR 2025
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Accepted Test | PTE Academic (General not accepted) |
| Minimum PTE for PR | 50 (Competent English) |
| High Scorer Bonus | PTE 65+ (Proficient), PTE 79+ (Superior) |
| Score Validity | Up to 3 years |
| Other Accepted Tests | IELTS, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge English, OET (select visas) |
| Official Site | immi.homeaffairs.gov.au |
Achieving a strong PTE score is not just about meeting eligibility; higher bands earn additional PR points and may improve your invitation-to-apply (ITA) chances. If you’re torn between PTE vs IELTS for PR, remember both are equally accepted by the Australian Government for all skilled migration pathways.
Top Australian Universities Recognized for PR Prospects (2025)
Choosing the right university can impact your visa success and long-term settlement opportunities. Here are leading Australian universities favored by Indian students and known for excellent PR and job outcomes:
| University | QS 2025 Rank (AUS) | Popular PR Streams | Min. PTE (UG/PG) | Avg. Fees (AUD/year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | 1 | IT, Engg, Health, Business | 58/65 | 45,000–55,000 |
| Australian National University | 2 | Science, Law, Computing | 64/70 | 42,000–53,000 |
| University of Sydney | 3 | Nursing, Engineering | 61/68 | 43,000–50,000 |
| Monash University | 4 | Pharma, Data, Business | 58/64 | 40,000–48,000 |
| UNSW Sydney | 5 | Tech, Construction, Analytics | 54/64 | 40,000–47,000 |
| University of Queensland | 6 | Agriculture, Health, Engg | 60/64 | 39,000–44,000 |
| RMIT University | 9 | Design, STEM | 50/58 | 37,000–43,000 |
| Deakin University | 10 | Allied Health, IT | 50/58 | 35,000–39,000 |
Explore more options: Top Universities in Australia
Eligibility Criteria & PR Points – PTE vs IELTS
For Australian Skilled Migration (subclass 189, 190, 491, 186) in 2025, your English language test impacts your points:
| Level | PTE Academic (Each Section) |
IELTS (Each Band) |
PR Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Competent | 50+ | 6.0 | 0 |
| Proficient | 65+ | 7.0 | 10 |
| Superior | 79+ | 8.0 | 20 |
For PR, only PTE Academic, not General, is eligible. Both |ELTS and PTE Academic test all four skills (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking) and are accepted for all PR and work visas.
If you’re aiming for the maximum PR points, strive for a PTE score of 79 in each section for the Superior category. Your overall immigration points (calculated by age, work, education, etc.) should ideally cross 65-75 for strong chances.
Australia PR Visa Process: Steps & Documents (2025)
Here's a simplified pathway for Australia PR via the General Skilled Migration program:
- Take PTE Academic (or IELTS, TOEFL) and achieve the required band
- Get your qualifications assessed by the relevant Australian assessing authority
- Calculate PR points (use the official points calculator)
- Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
- Receive invitation to apply (ITA), submit documentation
- Medical & police checks; lodge visa application
- Visa grant; arrive in Australia and follow post-landing formalities
Key documents: Valid passport, PTE Academic scorecard, educational transcripts, employment proofs, skill assessment letter, EOI confirmation, police clearance, medical checks. Special pathways exist for graduates of regional universities with strong job offers.
Scholarships & Funding for Indian Students in Australia (2025)
Australia offers numerous merit-based and need-based scholarships for high-achieving Indian students seeking both degrees and PR eligibility:
- Australia Awards Scholarships
- Destination Australia Program
- University-specific merit scholarships (Monash, Melbourne, ANU, Deakin, etc.)
- Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
- Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship (various universities)
Also read: Scholarships for Studying Abroad
Cost of Study & Living in Australia (2025)
Typical annual tuition fees for international students in Australia range from AUD 20,000 to 55,000 per year. Annual living expenses (as per 2025 guidelines) can be between AUD 24,505 to 30,000, including accommodation, food, and transport.
Explore more: Cost of Living in Australia
Post-Study Work Visas & PR Pathways
Graduates can access Temporary Graduate Visas (485, 476) providing work rights after study. Extended “Stay Back” durations (2-6 years for master’s/doctoral graduates from regional universities) boost PR prospects. Gaining Australian work experience and employer sponsorships (e.g., subclass 186 PR) often accelerates the PR process.
For regional campus graduates, special additional PR points are offered to encourage study outside main cities. Fields with the highest PR potential include IT, Engineering, Nursing & Health Sciences, Accounting, and Construction Management.
Career Outcomes & PR-Boosting Fields for Indian Graduates
| Field | 2025 PR Demand | Avg. Salary (AUD/yr) | Stay Back (years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| IT & Computer Science | High | 80,000–110,000 | 4-6 |
| Nursing & Healthcare | Very High | 75,000–105,000 | 4-6 |
| Engineering | High | 85,000–120,000 | 3-5 |
| Accountancy | Medium | 70,000–95,000 | 3-4 |
Want to know more about global high-paying fields? Check out highest paying jobs worldwide.
In summary, a PTE Academic score between 65 and 79 sharply increases your PR chances—especially if combined with regional study and work experience in demand fields. Australia continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for skilled migration, welcoming ambitious Indian students who fulfill its latest PR and language requirements.
FAQs on Australia PR Points and PTE Score Requirements for 2025-26
1. Can I get PR with 75 points in Australia?
Yes, you can be invited to apply for Australian PR with 75 points under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. While the minimum eligibility is 65 points, achieving 75 points increases your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for subclasses like 189, 190, or 491 visas. However, cut-off scores can vary for each occupation and draw, so a higher score improves your prospects.
2. Is PTE score accepted for PR in Australia?
Yes, the PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) is accepted by the Australian Department of Home Affairs for Permanent Residency (PR) applications, along with other tests like IELTS, TOEFL iBT, OET and CAE.
3. How many PTE scores are needed for Australia PR?
The minimum required PTE Academic score for Australia PR is 50 in each section (Competent English). To increase your points, you can aim for:• Proficient English: At least 65 in each section (10 points)• Superior English: At least 79 in each section (20 points)
4. Is IELTS or PTE better for Australia PR?
Both IELTS and PTE Academic are equally accepted for Australia PR. The choice depends on your comfort:• PTE is computer-based and has automated scoring• IELTS offers both paper and computer-based optionsChoose the one that matches your strengths and familiarity.
5. What is the minimum PTE score for Australia PR?
The minimum PTE score for Australia PR is 50 in each section, classified as Competent English. Higher scores may earn you extra PR points.
6. What PTE score is required for Australia PR 20 points?
You need at least 79 in each section of PTE Academic (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) to qualify for Superior English and earn 20 points for your PR application.
7. What is the PTE score for the Australia PR points calculator?
The PTE score directly impacts your points for English language ability on the Australia PR points calculator:• Competent (PTE 50+): 0 points• Proficient (PTE 65+): 10 points• Superior (PTE 79+): 20 points
8. What PTE score is required for the 186 visa (Employer Nomination Scheme)?
For the 186 visa, at least a Competent English level is required. This means a minimum PTE Academic score of 50 in each section. Some occupations or employers may request higher.
9. What is the latest PTE score requirement for Australia PR in 2025?
As of 2025, the minimum PTE requirement for Australia PR remains 50 in each section (Competent English). For extra points:• Proficient English: PTE 65+ in each section• Superior English: PTE 79+ in each section
10. What is the Competent English PTE score?
Competent English for Australia PR via PTE means a score of 50 or above in each of the four components: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
11. What is the IELTS score required for Australia PR?
The minimum IELTS score for Australia PR is 6.0 in each band (Competent English). Higher scores can earn you 10 or 20 extra PR points.
12. Does the PTE score requirement change for Australia student visas or master’s programs?
Yes, the required PTE Academic score for Australian student visas and master’s admission depends on the institution and course level. Generally:• Undergraduate programs: PTE 50–58 overall• Master’s programs: PTE 58–64 overall• Student visa (subclass 500): usually PTE Academic 42+ overall
