PTE for Australia: what it is used for and the scores you need
PTE Academic is accepted right across Australia: by every university for course entry, and by the Department of Home Affairs for the visas that let you study, work and stay.
What a PTE score is used for in Australia
University & college admission
Accepted by Australian universities and most colleges as proof of English for entry.
Skilled migration visas
Recognised by the Department of Home Affairs for points-tested skilled visas. Higher scores earn more points.
Student & graduate visas
Meets the English requirement for student, temporary-graduate and temporary-work visa applications.
Professional registration
Used for overseas-qualified professionals by many licensing bodies: nursing, engineering, accounting and more.
The scores you need
Home Affairs recognises three levels of English for points-tested skilled visas. Each sets a minimum in every skill, not an overall average, and the numbers below apply to tests taken on or after 7 August 2025. Requirements change, so confirm them on the Home Affairs page linked from each card before you book.
PTE Academic, every skill at or above these minimums in one sitting. The eligibility floor for most points-tested skilled visas: it earns no bonus points on its own, but you need it to qualify.
PTE Academic, every skill at or above these minimums in one sitting. Worth ten points in the skilled-visa points test, above Competent.
PTE Academic, every skill at or above these minimums in one sitting. The maximum English points available in the points test.
Built for the exam Pearson runs today
PTE refreshed on 7 August 2025, and templates are penalised under the current algorithm. Kooroo's task list, scoring gates and mock exams are built around that exam, not the version still floating around older prep apps, so what you practise on Kooroo matches what you sit at the test centre.
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Questions people ask about PTE for Australia.
PTE for other destinations
Requirements are set by the relevant authority and change. Confirm the current numbers against the official source before you book a test or lodge an application.
Kooroo PTE is an independent practice tool. We do not provide immigration, visa or legal advice.