PTE Score Required for Australia

Australia is one of the most popular destinations for students seeking higher education. It has 40+ Universities around the country and a variety of course options to choose from. Whether you are interested in medicine, business, engineering, or any other field, Australia has various top-ranking universities that cater to your needs. However, it is essential to check the official website of your desired university to learn the eligibility criteria and requirements. In the context of the PTE exam, it is mandatory to know how much PTE score required for Australia.

Students who want to study at Australian universities should score 65-70 in the PTE exam. However, several universities in Australia also accept students who score 50 in the PTE exam.

Names of a few of the universities are mentioned below- 

• The University of Melbourne

• The University of Canberra

• The University of Sydney

• The University of Newcastle

• Abbott School of Business

• The University of New South Wales

The PTE score for Australia is detailed information that shows your ability to read, write, speak, and listen. It assesses grammar, spelling, writing abilities, pronunciation, vocabulary, and communication skills. However, the minimum PTE score is 42.

Australia is home to some of the world's top-ranking universities, making it a preferable choice for Indian students to pursue their education at different universities. However, students from non-English speaking countries must prove their English proficiency for successful visa application approval.

To get a student visa permit, particularly subclass 500 entry to Australia, IPL is a critical test for you to pass. The PTE scores set by the Australian government for different levels of education, starting from secondary education to PhD, are specific to each such level of education.

A minimum score of 50 on PTE tests is usually needed for admission into undergraduate and postgraduate schools. However, this can be slightly higher in some more competitive programs, with a score of 58. Preparing for success in the PTE test, which involves regular practice and getting used to its particular structure, is a must for every student.

Furthermore, English proficiency is divided into five levels: functional, vocational, component, proficient, and superior. Let us discuss all five levels in brief for a better understanding-

• Functional - based on 4 exam components, students need to score at least 30 in total.

• Vocational - in all 4 components, students need to score 36 in each level.

• Competent - in all 4 components, students are required to score 50 in each level but not less than 65 score.

• Proficient -  in all 4 components, students are required to score 65 in each level but not less than 70 score.

• Superior - at least 79 score is needed in each level of all 4 components.

Now that we have discussed the levels of PTE scores, let’s discuss how many PTE scores required for Australia student visa, based on English efficiency level-

The main features of the PTE Academic are summarised as follows:

• Comprehensive Testing

Assesses four core skills: PTE Academic assesses language skills in a candidate through his listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills. Unlike a sole province of any one skill, it combines them in the way they are used in the real world, being evidence of unilingual communication. Hence, these skills like listening, reading, and speaking can be tested simultaneously.

• Fast and Secure Results

Quick Score Availability: A remarkable facet of this exam is a relatively short period for scores to be reported, typically 48 hours. Moreover, the rapid nature of this feedback is certainly valuable for people who usually work under the pressure of making timely submissions to a university or a visa office.

Digital and Secure: The entire test, which takes place on computer systems, avoids handwriting and recognises speech using the most advanced technologies. It directly implies that there is a fair issuance of marks and the impartiality of human suspicion in these cases, as the computer-aided marking system will reduce the bias.

• Global Recognition

Widely Accepted: PTE Academic is a globally accepted qualification that many academic institutions, including leading ones in the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States, and Canada, accept as their English language proof. Professional associations and government agencies also see DTCE as credible proof and grant necessary documents for immigration and visas.

Accessibility: Arguably, PTE Academic is a leading exam that also has 50-plus test centres across the world, and hence, it is preferable for test-takers all over the world. Scheduling tests for the most convenient days and students so that they can make up for their missed tests due to interference of personal matters.

To apply for a work visa in Australia, individuals need to provide evidence of their English language proficiency. The PTE Score required for work visas in Australia varies depending on a person's requirements and occupation. However, some occupations require a higher level of English language, and some employers like to have higher PTE scores.

Therefore, check the PTE score requirement with your prospective employer or a registered migration agency. Below are the scores needed to acquire an Australian work visa:-

Students who decide to study in Australia must know the minimum PTE score required to get an Australian student visa. They must show the PTE Score as proof of their proficiency in English.

The minimum PTE score students need to achieve for their visa is 42. However,  a 36 score is acceptable for those who attend at least 10 weeks of (ELICOS) English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students. Moreover, for the students who attend 20 weeks of ELICOS, their minimum 30 score is also acceptable.

It is important to be aware of the particular PTE score requirements for students aiming at certain classes or institutes, as those numbers can be different. For some schools or courses, the minimum score needed for admission is higher than for the student visa, without any references to the student visa requirements. Within your repertoire of skill set, ensure these specific criteria are met, as they will help you obtain a visa and receive an acceptance letter of university admission.

People who would like to reside permanently in Australia must follow all the necessary procedures that the government of Australia has decided. Applicants who apply for PR must clear their PTE exam, which shows their English proficiency. Australia  PR PTE scores differ depending upon the requirements of the Home Affairs department and visa subclass.

The table below shows the types of visas and subclass that show availability:-

There are various advantages of PTE test scores in Australia.

• PTE is accepted widely in Australian universities and for immigration purposes.

• You can take your PTE test at a time convenient for you.

• It is available in many locations of the world.

Candidates who fall below the category need not submit the PTE score if they present the following documents to prove to the Department of Home Affairs of Australia that they are proficient in English.

• General Skilled Migration Visa Holders: Should be citizens with valid passports from Canada, New Zealand, the UK, Ireland, and the USA.

• Permanent Employer Sponsor under Temporary Residence Transition Stream Visa Holders: Should complete 5 years of full-time study in English.

Candidates often wonder how long the validity of PTE will last. The validity of the PTE score is up to 2 years from the date of the test attempted, except for Australia PR, which is 3 years. The purpose of the validity of English proficiency test scores is to address the loss of second language proficiency.

Always ensure that one has a valid PTE score when planning to work or study in Australia. Once the 2-year or 3-year period is over, the candidate should retake the test to show their proficiency in English if necessary.

An appropriate strategy and preparation are needed to perform well in Australia's PTE score. Students who plan to work or study in Australia should obtain a minimum PTE score to prove their English proficiency.

Some tips for the students to achieve high PTE scores are:-

• Through improving grammar and vocabulary skills.

• Using studying material and online information can help you to score better.

• Practice for PTE regularly by speaking, listening, reading and writing.

• Managing time effectively during the test is essential.

• Take a mock test to know about your progress and improve where needed.

• Enlighten yourself with the structure and format of the exam.

• Take a look at your answer sheet before submitting it.

• Most importantly, stay calm and focused at the time of the test.

To sum up, a good PTE score is essential for students who want to study or work in Australia. This blog gives you complete details about the PTE score required for Australia, the PTE score for an Australian student visa, how many PTE scores are necessary to obtain an Australian student visa, and more. Adopting the tips and information presented in this blog can help you achieve a good PTE score.

If you are looking forward to study in Australia or have queries regarding PTE score, we encourage you to speak with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). Our counsellors will provide you with guidance throughout your study abroad. Get help with the application process, SOPs, and filing for a visa. Visit us and get one-to-one counselling, or avail yourself of free video counselling via our website. We will be happy to help you, so please do not hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or 1800-1230-00011.

1.  What is the Full Form of PTE?

The complete form of PTE is a Pearson test of English, which is an English proficiency test. That shows a person's ability to read, write, listen, and speak English. It is a kind of test widely accepted in Australia to get a student visa, for immigration purposes, and work visas. It is a computer-based exam that students can take from home.

2. What is the fee for the PTE test in India?

Last year, in 2024, the fee for the PTE test in India was about 15,900. However, the cost may vary depending on the type of exam and the test centre. It is always advisable to check the official PTE website or contact the nearest test centre for information and fee details.

3. How long is the PTE test score valid?

The PTE test score in Australia is valid for 2 years. If someone has taken the PTE test earlier, they must ensure the scores are valid when applying for work or study in Australia. Moreover, if someone's scores have expired or are about to expire, they must retake their PTE test to avoid issues while applying for a visa.

4. How difficult is it for the Students to clear the exam?

The right amount of practice and preparation can help the students clear the PTE test and gain a good score quickly. Various resources and information are available online and offline, which can help the students prepare well for the test.

5. What is the lowest PTE score required for Australia?

The minimum PTE score students need to achieve for their visa is 42. However, a 36 score is acceptable for those who attend at least 10 weeks of (ELICOS) English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students. For the students who attend 20 weeks of ELICOS, their minimum 30 score is also acceptable.

6. What is the syllabus of the PTE exam?

The PTE exam consists of four sections: speaking, reading, writing, and listening. Students must prepare themselves for questions based on general topics or academic topics, such as writing an essay or MCQs. It is an entirely computer-based exam to evaluate your English proficiency level skill.

7. Which universities accept 50 PTE scores in Australia?

Several universities in Australia accept 50 PTE scores. A few are the University of Queensland, the University of Melbourne, Monash University, and the University of Adelaide.

8. How much is a PTE score required for Australia PR?

To apply for Australia PR, one needs to be proficient in the English language; the required PTE score is 65 or more. However, it is always advisable to check regularly for Australia PR requirements.

9. Do Indian students have the right to study in Australia?

Yes, Indian students have the right to study in Australia, and it is one of the most popular destinations for Indian students to pursue higher education. However, they need to pass the English proficiency requirements by taking the PTE exam.

10. Can I attempt the PTE exam from anywhere?

Yes, you can attempt the PTE exam from anywhere, as it is computer-based, but always make sure you have your passport and valid ID when taking it.

11. Why is PTE considered better than IELTS?

PTE tests integrated speaking and writing skills, whereas in IELTS Academic these skills are tested separately.  The entire PTE test can be completed in a single testing session on a single day. In IELTS Academic, students may have to complete the speaking section on a separate day – up to a week later. Additionally, the PTE Academic Speaking section is completed on a computer (and machine-scored) whereas the IELTS Academic Speaking section is done face-to-face with a human examiner.