Score bands at a glance
For tests taken on or after 7 August 2025. You need the score in each of the four components. PTE scores are shown as Listening · Reading · Writing · Speaking.
| Level | IELTS (Academic or General) | PTE Academic (L · R · W · S) | Points | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Competent | 6 in each | 47 · 48 · 51 · 54 | 0 | Minimum for most skilled and employer visas |
| Proficient | 7 in each | 58 · 59 · 69 · 76 | 10 | |
| Superior | 8 in each | 69 · 70 · 85 · 88 | 20 | The maximum English points |
PTE scores changed on 7 August 2025PTE Academic has the same name as the earlier test, but the test and the required scores are different. Each component now has its own minimum — for example, Superior needs 88 in Speaking but 69 in Listening.
Other accepted tests
Home Affairs also accepts other tests — including Cambridge C1 Advanced, CELPIP General, OET, LANGUAGECERT Academic, TOEFL iBT and (for some levels) the Michigan English Test — each with its own required scores. Not every test is accepted at every level. TOEFL iBT results are only valid if you select ‘Taking TOEFL for Australia’ when you register.
How long are results valid?
Test results can be used as evidence for up to 3 years, depending on the visa subclass. If you took a test before 7 August 2025, your result may still be valid for up to 3 years under the earlier score table.
Where your score makes the biggest difference
- Skilled points visas (189, 190, 491): Proficient adds 10 points, Superior adds 20.
- Most skilled and employer-sponsored visas need at least Competent English.
- Family members aged 18+ without functional English may need to pay a second instalment charge on some visas.