Australia’s Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is a points-tested permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state/territory government. One of the key criteria to qualify for this visa is proving your English language proficiency, and the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) is one of the accepted tests. If you’re considering using PTE to meet this requirement, here’s what you need to know.
Understanding English Proficiency Levels for Visa Points
When applying for the 189 visa, your English test score not only determines your eligibility but also impacts your total points score, which is crucial for receiving an invitation to apply. Here are the recognized English proficiency levels and their corresponding PTE Academic score requirements:
| English Level | PTE Academic Score | Visa Points Awarded |
| Competent English | 50 in each component | 0 points |
| Proficient English | 65 in each component | 10 points |
| Superior English | 79 in each component | 20 points |
Which PTE Score Should You Aim For?
To simply be eligible for a 189 visa, you need competent English, which means:
- At least 50 in each of the four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
However, to increase your total points and improve your chances of receiving an invitation, it’s ideal to aim higher:
- 65+ in each section = 10 extra points (Proficient English)
- 79+ in each section = 20 extra points (Superior English)
Why Are Points So Important?
Subclass 189 is a competitive visa managed under the SkillSelect system. Applicants submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), and only those with the highest points are invited to apply. The minimum score to submit an EOI is 65 points, but in reality, you’ll likely need 85+ to stand a good chance, especially in high-demand occupations. Strong English scores can give you a significant boost.
Are you ready to test your skills?
Can You Combine Two PTE Tests for Points?
No. For visa purposes, your PTE scores must be from a single test sitting. The Department of Home Affairs only accepts scores from one test session when determining your English language proficiency for migration purposes.
Other Ways to Boost Your Points (Besides English)
While English language proficiency can contribute up to 20 points, here are other point-earning factors:
- Age (up to 30 points)
- Skilled employment experience (up to 20 points)
- Educational qualifications (up to 20 points)
- Partner skills (up to 10 points)
- Australian study or regional study (5 points each)
- Credentialed community language (5 points)
- Professional year in Australia (5 points)
Are you ready to test your skills?
When to Take the PTE Test
Take the PTE Academic before submitting your EOI on SkillSelect. You must have a valid test result (within 3 years) and meet the required score to claim points at the time of invitation.
Tips to Reach Your Target PTE Score
1. Know the Test Format
- Understanding the PTE structure helps you prepare smarter by focusing on each task type.
- It reduces surprises on exam day and improves your overall confidence and performance.
2. Practice Regularly
- Consistent daily practice builds your skills gradually and naturally across all four sections.
- Even short study sessions done regularly are more effective than cramming.
3. Take Mock Exams Early
- PTE mock tests give you a realistic feel of the exam and help identify your weak areas.
- They also improve your time management and reduce exam-day anxiety.
4. Consider Coaching or a Preparation Course
- A prep course offers expert guidance, strategies, and structured learning.
- It’s especially useful if you’re aiming for high scores like 65+ or 79+ in each section.
5. Improve Time Management
- Many candidates lose marks by running out of time, not due to poor English.
- Practice timed tasks to build speed and accuracy for the real exam.
Bonus Tip: Use Technology Wisely
Since PTE is a computer-based test with AI scoring, your microphone positioning, typing speed, and clarity of speech do matter. Practice:
- Typing quickly and accurately
- Speaking clearly into a microphone with good pronunciation
- Avoiding long pauses or filler words um, uh in speaking tasks
To apply for Australia’s 189 Skilled Visa, you must score at least 50 in each component of the PTE Academic test to meet the Competent English requirement. But if you want to increase your chances of being invited, aim for Proficient (65+) or Superior (79+) English, which can give you up to 20 extra points.
