From 7 August 2025, the Australian Government updated the PTE Academic score requirements for visa applications.
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The changes affect all English levels – from Functional to Superior.
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Some scores have increased slightly, and skilled migration visas now also have minimum scores for each test component.
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If you took your PTE test on or before 6 August 2025, the old scores still apply (within the result validity period).
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If you take the test on or after 7 August 2025, you must meet the new requirements.
1. Functional English
Used for: Some family visas, certain concessions, and special visa categories.
PTE Academic (new version – from 7 August 2025):
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Overall band score of at least 24
Important: This score is based on the new PTE Academic scoring scale introduced from 7 August 2025. It is not the same as the previous PTE Academic score system.
Tip: This is a basic English level. Even a 2-point increase means you must score slightly higher in your test.
2. Vocational English
Vocational requirements (Skilled/Employer-sponsored visas):
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Listening: 33
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Reading: 36
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Writing: 29
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Speaking: 24
Tip: There is no single overall score requirement – instead, you must meet minimum scores in each component: Listening 33, Reading 36, Writing 29, Speaking 24.
3. Competent English
Used for: Most skilled migration visas (e.g., Subclasses 189, 190, 491) and as the base level for points eligibility.
| Level | Old Score | New Score | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Competent English | 50 | 51 | +1 |
Component requirements (Skilled/Employer-sponsored visas):
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Listening: 47
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Reading: 48
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Writing: 51
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Speaking: 54
Tip: You must meet both the overall score and each individual component score.
4. Proficient English
Used for: Higher points claims in skilled migration (10 points).
| Level | Old Score | New Score | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proficient English | 65 | 66 | +1 |
Component requirements (Skilled/Employer-sponsored visas):
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Listening: 58
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Reading: 59
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Writing: 69
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Speaking: 76
Tip: Even a single point matters here — it could be the difference between qualifying for extra migration points or not.
5. Superior English
Used for: Highest English level in skilled migration (20 points).
| Level | Old Score | New Score | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Superior English | 79 | 84 | +5 |
Component requirements (Skilled/Employer-sponsored visas):
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Listening: 69
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Reading: 70
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Writing: 85
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Speaking: 88
Tip: This is a significant jump, especially in the overall score and writing/speaking components. More preparation may be needed.
Important Reminders
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Test Date Matters
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Before 7 August 2025 → Old scores apply (within validity period).
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On/after 7 August 2025 → New scores apply.
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Visa Impact
Affects student visas, skilled migration, temporary graduate, employer-sponsored, and some family visas. -
Component Scores
For skilled migration and employer-sponsored visas, meeting the overall score only is not enough — you must also pass each skill section. -
Test Format
Only in-person PTE Academic at approved test centres is accepted. No at-home or online versions are valid for visa purposes.
Final Advice
Before booking your PTE test:
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Check your visa’s required English level.
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Aim a few points above the minimum to avoid risk.
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Review each test skill area (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
For official details, visit the English language visa requirements page from the Department of Home Affairs.
