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If you are considering studying, working or living in Australia, there is an important update you need to know. The PTE score for Australian visas is new to the requirement. These changes have the potential to have implications on your application for student visas, skilled migration and perhaps even for Permanent Residency (PR). In the following post we will explain:

✔ The latest PTE score requirements
✔ How these changes impact different visa types
✔ The differences between old and new scores
✔ Tips to achieve the new score benchmarks

Let’s dive in.

Why Does PTE Matter for Australia?

The PTE Academic exam has been accepted by the Australian universities and the Australian Department of Home Affairs for admission and visa purposes – including student visas, skilled migration visas and professional registration. The four primary skills tested are:

  • Speaking
  • Writing
  • Reading
  • Listening

Your overall PTE score plays a key role in determining eligibility for different visa types.

Why Did Australia Change PTE Score Requirements?

Australia wants to make sure that international students and skilled migrants have strong English communication skills. This is crucial for success in studies, professional work, and daily life in the country.

The new PTE score changes for 2025 aim to set clear standards for each visa category. These adjustments also align with global language proficiency benchmarks.

New PTE Score Requirements: At a Glance

The biggest change is how scores are now split between overall and individual skills like Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing. Below is the official updated table:

Updated PTE Score Table for Australian Visas

Category

Old Each Skill

New Overall

New Listening

New Reading

New Speaking

New Writing
Functional 30 24 - - - -
Vocational 36 - 33 36 24 29
Competent 50 - 47 48 54 51
Proficient 65 - 58 59 76 69
Superior 79 - 69 70 88 85

What Does This Mean for You?

  • Functional English (for some basic visa options): Now requires an overall score of 24 instead of individual skills.
  • Vocational English: Requires Listening (33), Reading (36), Speaking (24), and Writing (29).
  • Competent English: Aiming for Listening (47), Reading (48), Speaking (54), and Writing (51).
  • Proficient & Superior English: Higher scores are required for skilled migration visas and to maximize PR points.

Which Visas Does This Impact?

If you’re applying for any visa that uses PTE scores as proof of English, these changes matter to you. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The new PTE test now requires an overall score of 47.

  • However, your college or university may set higher scores based on your course. Always check their requirements.

2. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

  • The new overall score requirement is 55, down from 57.
  • You must also meet these individual band scores:
    • Listening: 40
    • Reading: 42
    • Speaking: 39
    • Writing: 41

3. Skilled Migration Visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491)

The minimum requirement remains Competent English, which means:

  • Listening: 47
  • Reading: 48
  • Speaking: 54
  • Writing: 51

Proficient or Superior English scores can give you extra PR points, increasing your chances of receiving an invitation.

4. Partner Visas

If you or your partner need to show Functional English, the new requirement is 24 overall, down from 30.

5. Work Visa & Professional Registration

Some professional organizations and employers require higher PTE scores, especially in healthcare, engineering, and teaching professions. Always check the specific requirements of your occupation.

Why Were These Changes Introduced?

The Australian Government aims to maintain high standards of English proficiency for students and skilled migrants. The revised scores ensure that applicants can communicate effectively and adapt to academic and professional environments in Australia.

How to Achieve the New PTE Score Benchmarks

Feeling nervous about the updated scores? Don’t worry—success is possible with the right plan:

  • Know Your Target Score – Check your visa requirements before booking the test.
  • Practice Each Skill Separately – Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing all matter now.
  • Use Authentic Mock Tests – They simulate real exam conditions and help with time management.
  • Improve Weak Areas First – If Speaking or Writing is holding you back, focus extra time there.
  • Consider Coaching – If self-study isn’t enough, Consider Coaching or professional guidance can make a big difference.

The new PTE score requirements for Australia may seem challenging, but with proper preparation and the right strategies, you can achieve your target. Always stay updated with the latest immigration guidelines before applying for your visa.

Visit Western Overseas and take the first step toward your international career today.