If you are planning to apply for Australian permanent residency, understanding the PTE score for Australia PR is an important part of your preparation. Your English test result can affect whether you meet the English-language requirement for a skilled visa and how many points you may claim in your Expression of Interest (EOI).
The required score depends on your visa pathway, the date you took your test and the level of English you need to demonstrate. For points-tested skilled visas, such as subclasses 189, 190 and 491, applicants may be able to claim additional points by achieving proficient or superior English.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs changed its approved English-test requirements on 7 August 2025. As a result, the score chart used for a recent PTE Academic test is different from the chart that applied to earlier tests. You should check the correct requirements before booking your exam or submitting your EOI.
This guide explains the minimum PTE score for Australia PR in 2026, the difference between competent, proficient and superior English, how PTE results contribute to skilled migration points, and what applicants and their partners should know before applying.
What PTE score is required for Australia PR?
There is no single PTE score that applies to every Australian permanent residency pathway. The required result depends on the visa subclass and whether you need to demonstrate competent, proficient or superior English.
For PTE Academic tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, the Department of Home Affairs uses minimum scores in the individual test components. An overall PTE score alone is not sufficient to establish that you meet one of these English levels.
The following table summarises the PTE Academic thresholds for the main English levels used in skilled migration.
PTE score chart for Australia PR 2026
| English level | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking | Points under the skilled migration points test |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Competent English | 47 | 48 | 51 | 54 | 0 |
| Proficient English | 58 | 59 | 69 | 76 | 10 |
| Superior English | 69 | 70 | 85 | 88 | 20 |
These PTE Academic thresholds apply to tests taken on or after 7 August 2025. The points shown are for the English-language factor in the relevant points-tested skilled migration visas. Always verify the current requirements for your visa subclass.
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For example, a candidate aiming for proficient English must meet the minimum threshold in all four skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking. A high listening score does not compensate for a writing score below the required threshold.
Before booking your test, decide which English level you need. If you want to claim 10 or 20 points for English, prepare for the corresponding individual skill requirements rather than focusing only on your overall score.
1. What is competent English in PTE?
Competent English is an English-language level used for several Australian visa pathways. For relevant skilled visas, meeting the competent English requirement may satisfy the minimum English standard, but it does not provide additional points for the English-language factor in the points test.
For PTE Academic tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, the minimum competent English scores are:
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Listening: 47
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Reading: 48
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Writing: 51
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Speaking: 54
You must meet the minimum requirement in each component. If one skill falls below the threshold, you may not qualify for competent English through that test result.
Competent English is not the same as being eligible for Australian PR. You must also meet the other requirements of your visa, including relevant age, occupation, skills assessment, health and character criteria where applicable.
2. What is proficient English in PTE?
Proficient English is a higher English-language level that can provide 10 points under the points test for relevant skilled migration visas.
For PTE Academic tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, the required scores are:
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Listening: 58
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Reading: 59
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Writing: 69
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Speaking: 76
Applicants often target proficient English because these additional points can strengthen their overall skilled migration points score.
For example, if your points calculation is close to the minimum threshold, achieving proficient English may improve your total. However, you should calculate your complete score rather than assuming that the English result alone will make you eligible for an invitation.
The relevant requirements and evidence rules should be checked before you submit your EOI.
3. What is superior English in PTE?
Superior English is the highest of the three English levels used for the English-language factor in the points test for relevant skilled migration visas.
For PTE Academic tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, the superior English thresholds are:
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Listening: 69
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Reading: 70
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Writing: 85
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Speaking: 88
Achieving superior English can provide 20 points under the relevant skilled migration points test.
This can make a meaningful difference to your total points, particularly when combined with eligible age, qualifications, skilled employment and other factors. However, reaching the superior English threshold does not guarantee an invitation to apply for PR.
If your target is superior English, plan your preparation around the highest individual skill requirements, especially writing and speaking. Take practice tests to identify weaker areas and allow sufficient time to improve before your official examination.
4. How many PTE points do you get for Australia PR?
Your PTE result does not directly determine your total Australian PR points. Instead, it can establish your English proficiency level, which may contribute points under the skilled migration points test.
| English proficiency level | English points |
|---|---|
| Competent English | 0 |
| Proficient English | 10 |
| Superior English | 20 |
These are points for the English-language factor, not your complete migration score. Other factors may include age, qualifications, eligible work experience, Australian study, partner qualifications and other recognised criteria.
The Department of Home Affairs states that the relevant points-tested skilled visa pathways generally require applicants to meet or exceed 65 points to be eligible for an invitation. Reaching 65 points does not guarantee an invitation, and actual selection depends on the relevant visa and invitation process.
Example of how English points can affect your score
Consider a hypothetical applicant whose other eligible factors contribute 55 points.
| English level | Other points | English points | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Competent | 55 | 0 | 55 |
| Proficient | 55 | 10 | 65 |
| Superior | 55 | 20 | 75 |
This example is for illustration only. It does not predict invitation outcomes or confirm eligibility for a particular visa.
The important point is that improving your PTE result may help increase your points, but you should review all your eligibility factors before deciding which score to target.
5. Which PTE exam is required for Australian PR?
The relevant examination is generally PTE Academic, provided the test meets the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ requirements.
The Department distinguishes between approved tests, test dates and score thresholds. A test that is accepted for one purpose or visa category should not automatically be assumed to satisfy every Australian visa requirement.
Before booking PTE Academic, check the following:
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Your intended visa subclass and its English requirements.
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The minimum score required in each skill.
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Whether the test date falls before or after 7 August 2025.
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Whether the test is taken at an approved secure test centre.
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The evidence validity period that applies to your visa.
The Department does not accept English-test evidence from tests delivered entirely online, including remote-proctored or at-home examinations, for Australian visa purposes. Book an eligible test format and check the official rules before paying your test fee.
Official information: Australian Government English language requirements.
6. What changed in PTE score requirements after 7 August 2025?
The Australian Government changed its approved English-language test arrangements on 7 August 2025. This means applicants need to pay attention to when they took their PTE Academic examination.
For tests taken on or after that date, the updated PTE score thresholds apply. Some results from tests taken on or before 6 August 2025 may still be accepted under the earlier score rules, depending on the visa subclass and the applicable validity period.
For the older PTE Academic scoring requirements, the commonly used competent, proficient and superior English thresholds were:
| English level | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Competent English | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
| Proficient English | 65 | 65 | 65 | 65 |
| Superior English | 79 | 79 | 79 | 79 |
This table summarises the previous PTE thresholds for these English levels. Whether an older result can be used depends on the visa subclass and the Department’s applicable rules.
Do not use the old chart to plan a new PTE examination without checking the current requirements. If you already have a PTE result, confirm its test date, individual scores and validity before deciding whether you need to sit the examination again.
7. What PTE score is required for a spouse or dependent applying for Australian PR?
The English requirements for a spouse or dependent depend on the visa subclass and their role in the application.
For certain skilled visa applications, an adult secondary applicant may need to demonstrate functional English by the relevant stage of the process. In some circumstances, a second instalment visa application charge may apply if the applicant does not demonstrate the required English level.
This is different from claiming proficient or superior English points as the primary applicant. A partner’s English result does not automatically give the primary applicant 10 or 20 English points.
If you are applying with your spouse, check:
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Whether your partner must provide English evidence.
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Which English level or evidence is accepted for the relevant visa.
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Whether your partner can contribute points under the partner criteria.
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Whether any additional visa charge may apply if the English requirement is not met.
Do not assume that the primary applicant’s PTE score also covers the spouse. Review the rules for your particular visa and family circumstances.
Official reference: Department of Home Affairs — English language requirements.
8. How long is a PTE score valid for Australian PR?
The validity of your English test result depends on the visa subclass and the evidence rules that apply to your application.
The Department’s English-language guidance states that some test results taken before 7 August 2025 may remain valid for visa purposes until 6 August 2028, inclusive, depending on the visa. This does not mean every older PTE result will be accepted for every application.
For relevant competent, proficient and superior English evidence, the Department generally refers to results achieved within the three years before the visa application, depending on the visa subclass and applicable rules.
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Before relying on an existing PTE score, check:
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Your PTE test date.
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Your individual skill scores.
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The English level required for your visa.
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The applicable evidence period.
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Whether any visa-specific rules affect the result.
If your result is old or close to the applicable validity limit, confirm its acceptability before submitting your application or making an EOI claim.
9. How to improve your PTE score for Australia PR
Your preparation plan should reflect the English level you want to achieve. A candidate targeting competent English has different score goals from someone aiming for superior English and 20 migration points.
Identify your weakest skill
Start with a full practice test and review listening, reading, writing and speaking separately. Compare each result with the thresholds for your target English level.
If your listening score is already above the target but writing is below it, spend more preparation time on writing instead of repeating the same exercises in every skill.
Practise under timed conditions
PTE is a computer-based test, so practising with a timer can help you become familiar with the test structure and manage your time. Use reliable practice materials and review your mistakes after each session.
Improve your speaking fluency
Practise speaking clearly at a natural pace. Focus on pronunciation, fluency and responding to the task rather than rushing to finish. Record practice answers and listen for hesitation, unclear pronunciation and repeated errors.
Strengthen writing accuracy
Review grammar, sentence structure, spelling and organisation. Practise writing responses within the available time and make sure each answer follows the task instructions.
Check all four scores before booking again
Do not decide whether you need another attempt based only on the overall score. Compare every skill with the relevant Australian English threshold and check the official rules for the visa you intend to pursue.
No preparation method can guarantee a particular result, but targeted practice can help you identify gaps and make better use of your preparation time.
10. Does a higher PTE score guarantee Australian PR?
No. A higher PTE score can help you meet English requirements and may increase your points for a relevant skilled migration visa, but it does not guarantee permanent residency.
Depending on the visa pathway, you may also need to meet requirements relating to:
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Your nominated occupation.
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Your skills assessment.
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Your age.
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Your qualifications.
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Your skilled employment history.
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Your total points score.
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State or territory nomination, where applicable.
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Health and character checks.
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Other visa-specific eligibility conditions.
For points-tested skilled visas such as subclasses 189, 190 and 491, you generally need at least 65 points to be eligible for an invitation. The actual invitation outcome depends on the relevant selection process, and meeting the minimum threshold is not a promise of selection.
A practical approach is to calculate your points first, identify the English points you can realistically claim and then set a PTE target that supports your wider migration plan.
Conclusion: Choose the right PTE target for Australia PR
The PTE score for Australia PR depends on your required English level, your test date and your visa subclass. For PTE Academic tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, competent English requires 47 in listening, 48 in reading, 51 in writing and 54 in speaking. Proficient English requires 58, 59, 69 and 76 respectively, while superior English requires 69, 70, 85 and 88.
If you are pursuing a points-tested skilled visa, proficient English may provide 10 points and superior English may provide 20 points for the English-language factor. Competent English provides zero points for that factor, although it may satisfy a minimum English requirement.
Before you book your test or submit an EOI, confirm your individual skill scores, the correct test-date rules and all other visa requirements. The official Australian Government website should be your primary source for current requirements.
Official sources
Suggested internal links for GIEC Global: Link naturally to your Australia PR points calculator, skilled migration visa guides, skills assessment information and Australia migration consultation page. This connects readers who are researching English scores with the next steps in their migration planning.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum PTE score for Australia PR in 2026?
For PTE Academic tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, competent English generally requires at least 47 in listening, 48 in reading, 51 in writing and 54 in speaking. Check the requirements for your visa subclass.
Which PTE exam is required for Australian PR?
PTE Academic is an accepted English test for Australian visa purposes when it meets the Department of Home Affairs requirements. The test must be taken at an approved secure test centre.
How much PTE score is required for Australia PR 10 points?
For PTE Academic tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, proficient English requires at least 58 in listening, 59 in reading, 69 in writing and 76 in speaking to claim 10 English points under the relevant skilled migration points test.
What PTE score is required for 20 points in Australia PR?
Superior English generally requires at least 69 in listening, 70 in reading, 85 in writing and 88 in speaking for tests taken on or after 7 August 2025. This level can provide 20 English points under the relevant skilled migration points test.
What is the competent English PTE score for Australia?
For PTE Academic tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, competent English requires 47 in listening, 48 in reading, 51 in writing and 54 in speaking.
What is the proficient English PTE score for Australia PR?
The PTE Academic thresholds for proficient English are 58 in listening, 59 in reading, 69 in writing and 76 in speaking for tests taken on or after 7 August 2025.
What is the superior English PTE score for Australia PR in 2026?
The PTE Academic thresholds for superior English are 69 in listening, 70 in reading, 85 in writing and 88 in speaking for tests taken on or after 7 August 2025.
Does competent English give PR points in Australia?
Competent English generally satisfies the minimum English requirement for relevant skilled visas but gives zero points for the English-language factor in the skilled migration points test.
Is PTE accepted in Australia for PR?
Yes, PTE Academic is accepted for Australian visa purposes, subject to the test format, score thresholds, test date and requirements of the particular visa subclass.
Can I apply for Australia PR with a low PTE score?
Your options depend on your visa subclass and whether you meet its English requirements. A score below the required threshold may mean you need to retake the test or consider another eligible pathway.
What is the PTE score for Australia PR under the old scoring rules?
For tests taken on or before 6 August 2025, the previous PTE Academic thresholds may apply if the result remains valid for the relevant visa. Competent English generally required 50 in each skill, proficient English 65 in each skill and superior English 79 in each skill.
Is the PTE score requirement for Australia PR based on the overall score?
For the English proficiency levels used in skilled migration, the required minimums apply to individual skills. An overall score alone does not prove that you meet the relevant threshold.
What PTE score is required for a spouse or dependent visa in Australia?
Requirements depend on the visa and the family member's role in the application. Some skilled visa applications require an adult secondary applicant to demonstrate functional English by the time of decision, or a second instalment charge may apply.
Does my PTE score expire for Australian PR?
English test results must meet the validity rules for the visa subclass. For many skilled migration English requirements, evidence must fall within the applicable period before application or invitation, so check the current rules.
Can I use PTE Academic Online for Australian PR?
No. The Department of Home Affairs does not accept English test evidence from tests delivered completely online or remotely proctored. Use an accepted test taken at a secure test centre.
How many PR points do I need for Australia?
Relevant points-tested skilled visas generally require at least 65 points to be eligible for an invitation, but meeting the threshold does not guarantee an invitation. English is only one factor in the points test.
Can I get Australian PR with 65 PTE points?
PTE is an English test, not a PR points score. Your PTE result may help establish your English level and, if eligible, contribute 0, 10 or 20 points. Your total migration points are calculated from several factors.
Where can I check official PTE score requirements for Australia PR?
Check the Australian Department of Home Affairs pages for competent, proficient and superior English, and the points table for your visa subclass at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/.
