If you are planning to immigrate to Australia as a skilled professional, understanding the Australia PR Points Test is crucial. The Points Test is the backbone of Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, determining your eligibility for permanent residency (PR).
Whether you are applying independently or through a state nomination, your Australia PR points will decide your invitation to apply. In this blog, we will break down how the Australia PR Points Test works and how Cross Border Education can guide you on your journey.
What is the Australia PR Points Test?
The Australia PR Points Test is a merit-based system used by the Department of Home Affairs to evaluate visa applicants for certain skilled migration visas. The test allocates points based on various personal and professional factors, including age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and more.
To be eligible, you must score a minimum of 65 points. However, the higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR. The Points Test applies to the following visa subclasses:
- Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent Visa
- Subclass 190 - Skilled Nominated Visa
- Subclass 491 - Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
How Do You Get Points in the Australia PR Points Test?
Let’s look at the key factors and how many Australia PR points you can earn in each:
-
Age (Maximum 30 Points)
|
TEST SCORE LEVEL |
POINTS |
|
IELTS 6 |
0 |
|
IELTS 7 |
10 |
|
IELTS 8 |
20 |
-
Language Proficiency (Maximum 20 Points)
|
TEST SCORE LEVEL |
POINTS |
|
IELTS 6 |
0 |
|
IELTS 7 |
10 |
|
IELTS 8 |
20 |
-
Skilled Employment Experience (Maximum 20 points)
In Australia:
|
Experience |
Points |
|
1-2 years |
5 |
|
3-4 years |
10 |
|
5-7 years |
15 |
|
8 or more |
20 |
Overseas:
|
Experience |
Points |
|
3-4 years |
5 |
|
5-7 years |
10 |
|
8 or more |
15 |
-
Educational Qualifications (Maximum 20 points)
|
Qualification |
Points |
|
Doctorate |
20 |
|
Bachelor’s/Master’s |
15 |
|
Diploma or trade qualification (Australia) |
10 |
|
Recognized qualification for occupation |
10 |
-
Australian Study Requirement (5 points)
Complete a course that meets the Australian Study Requirement (2 academic years of study in Australia).
-
Credentialed Community Language (5 points)
If you are certified by NAATI as a translator/interpreter.
-
Study in Regional Australia (5 points)
If you studied in a designated regional area.
-
Partner Skills (Maximum 10 points)
|
Criteria |
Points |
|
Partner meets age, skills, and English |
10 |
|
Partner has competent English only |
5 |
|
Single applicant |
10 |
-
Professional Year in Australia (5 points)
If you have completed a Professional Year Program in Australia in IT, accounting, or engineering.
-
State or Territory Nomination (5 points)
Offered when a state or territory nominates you.
-
Regional Sponsorship (15 points)
For those sponsored by a regional area or eligible family member.
How to Calculate Your Australia PR Points?
You can use the official points calculator on our website to evaluate your eligibility and create a personalized migration plan.
How Cross Border Education Can Help?
At Cross Border Education, we offer end-to-end support including:
- Free points evaluation
- Professional profile assessment
- Assistance in skill assessment and EOI submission
- IELTS/PTE preparation guidance
- Advice on state nomination opportunities
- Support through visa filing and documentation
Our experienced team ensures that your Australian PR journey is smooth, strategic, and successful.
Conclusion
The Australia PR Points Test is your gateway to a brighter future Down Under. Whether you're a young graduate, a seasoned professional, or someone seeking better global opportunities, understanding and optimizing your Australia PR points is the key.
