Updated Minimum PTE Score Requirements for Australia 2025

Pearson Test of English, also known as PTE, is an internationally recognised test that assesses a student’s knowledge of the English language. Unlike other English proficiency tests, PTE is popular among students for its quick results and AI-based scoring mechanism.

Recently, in August 2025, Australia changed the minimum PTE score requirements, leaving many students confused and worried.

In this blog, we’ll discuss in detail everything you need to know about PTE tests and the updated requirements.

What is the Importance of PTE Scores in Australia?

Pearson Test of English is a computer-based English proficiency test that assesses the listening, writing, reading, and speaking skills of students. The computer-based format of this test allows for self-assessment and quick results. It plays a crucial role in the Australian education and immigration system.

The Australian PTE score requirements vary by visa, university, course requirements, and permanent residency. It shows your ability to successfully integrate into Australian society and contribute to your community meaningfully.

Why Choose PTE to Study in Australia?

There are multiple English proficiency tests out there, so why should you choose PTE?

• Quick Results

PTE scores are made live within 48 hours.

• Global Recognition

The test scores are valid not only in Australia but worldwide.

• Flexible Test Dates

It’s available throughout the year on multiple test dates and locations.

• Ease of Preparation

There are multiple study guides and mock tests available online for preparation.

• Unbiased Scoring

PTE uses advanced AI algorithms for scoring, which ensures fairness.

Updated Minimum PTE Score for Australia: Work, Study, and Visa

The minimum requirements for PTE have been officially increased by the Australian Government on 7th August 2025 to match other proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL. Below, we are sharing new PTE scores for each level and what has been changed.

English Proficiency Level	Overall	Listening	Reading	Writing	Speaking
Functional English	24	-	-	-	-
Vocational English	-	33	36	29	24
Competent English	-	47	48	51	54
Proficient English	-	58	59	69	76
Superior English	-	69	70	85	88

Student Visa Requirements

University Requirements vs. Visa Requirements: The minimum PTE score for a student visa is above 42, but individual universities have set their own standard, which is much higher. This is because universities want students with excellent academic English knowledge, but the Visa requirements only test basic communication skills.

Top Universities and Their PTE Requirements:

University	Undergraduate	Postgraduate	Special Requirements
University of Melbourne	64 (min 60 each skill)	72+	75 for some courses
University of NSW	64-65	64-70	Varies by faculty
Australian National University	64 (min 55 each)	64-65	Course-specific variations
Monash University	58+ (min 50 each)	58-72	Nursing requires higher scores

Work Visa Requirements

For a skilled visa, a competent English score gives you zero immigration points. Proficient English gives 10 points, and a Superior English score gives 20 points. This makes the skilled visa race really competitive, especially for jobs that require a higher cutoff.

Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The Graduate visa allows international students to gain work experience in Australia after they have already completed their studies. The Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) requires higher scores now if you take the test on or after 7 August 2025.

• Current Requirement: Should meet at least Competent English requirements in each skill
• Visa Duration: 18 months to 4 years (depends on qualification level and study location)
• Strategic Benefit: Higher scores improve chances for subsequent PR applications

Critical Understanding Points

Individual Skill Requirements: PTE requires you to meet the minimum requirement in each skill (listening, reading, writing, speaking). This means you cannot compensate for a weak skill with a strong performance in another area. This proves that you’re equally skilled in all areas of English communication.

What If I Took PTE before Aug 7, 2025?

If you took your PTE test before August 7, 2025, your scores remain valid under the previous thresholds for the full two-year validity period. But if you plan to retake the test to improve your score, the new, higher scores apply immediately.

Final Thoughts

To secure your study or work visa in Australia, it’s important to meet the minimum PTE requirements.  Just remember to use all the resources you can to study effectively. If you want to know how to improve your English to study in Australia, you can check out our detailed blog.

What matters the most when taking tests is patience and attention to detail. Read every question carefully and always aim for scores above the minimum requirement. We understand that academic English can feel tough when English is not your first language, but there’s help available always. Whether you want SOP help or assignment help, professionals at India Assignment Help are always there to assist you.