Minimum PTE Score Required for Australia in 2026

Are you planning to study in Australia in 2025 but confused about the English test score requirements? The Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency exams in Australia. It evaluates a student’s speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills. If you’re applying for an Australian student visa, PR, or work visa, your PTE score plays a big role.

This guide will explain the minimum PTE score for Australia in 2026, requirements for visas, universities, PR, and work permits, plus tips to help you achieve your target score.

What Is the Minimum PTE Score for Australia in 2026?

The minimum PTE score requirement in Australia is 65 and above for most universities and visa categories. Scoring 65 ensures that you meet the eligibility criteria for study and immigration.

However, for some specific cases:

• You can apply for PR with 50, but it may not guarantee approval.
• For a student visa, the minimum requirement is 42, with exceptions down to 30 if you take ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students).

The Australian Department of Home Affairs classifies PTE scores into five English proficiency levels:

• Functional English – Score of 30
• Vocational English – Score of 36
• Competent English – Score of 50-65
• Proficient English – Score of 65-79
• Superior English – Score of 79+

How Much PTE Score Is Required for Australia Student Visa?

For students applying to study in Australia in 2026, here’s the breakdown:

• Minimum PTE score for Australia student visa → 42
• With 10 weeks of ELICOS → Minimum accepted score is 36
• With 20 weeks of ELICOS → Minimum accepted score is 30

Program-wise Student Visa PTE Score Requirement

PTE Score Requirement for Australia PR in 2026

Students or professionals who want to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia must meet the PTE score benchmarks set by the Department of Home Affairs.

• Minimum PTE score for PR → 65 in each component
• For stronger PR chances → Aim for 70+ or even 79+ (Superior English gives more PR points)

PTE Score for Australia PR – Visa Categories

PTE Score Requirement for Australia Work Visa

For work visas, the minimum PTE score differs based on the level of English proficiency required by employers.

English Proficiency Levels & PTE Score

Note: A PTE score of 79+ not only improves visa approval chances but also adds 20 points to your PR application.

Universities in Australia Accepting PTE Score of 50

If you score 50 in PTE, don’t worry — many Australian universities still accept you for undergraduate and diploma programs.

Here’s a list of universities in Australia accepting PTE 50 score:

• Charles Darwin University
• University of Southern Queensland
• University of New England
• Victoria University
• University of Canberra
• Deakin University
• La Trobe University
• University of Newcastle
• Swinburne University of Technology
• Southern Cross University
• University of Adelaide
• Australian Catholic University

Validity of PTE Scores

• For university admission → Valid for 2 years from the test date
• For Australian immigration (PR/visa) → Valid for 3 years

Always check the university or immigration website for the latest updates before applying.

Tips to Score High in PTE for Australia

Here are some tried and tested strategies:

1. Understand the PTE exam pattern before your test.
2. Practice mock tests regularly to track your progress.
3. Work on time management for all four sections.
4. Strengthen your grammar and vocabulary.
5. Maintain balance across all sections – don’t rely only on speaking or writing.
6. Use official PTE preparation guides and online practice sets.
7. Stay calm and focused during the test.
8. Seek feedback from trainers or join PTE coaching classes for expert help.

IELTS vs PTE: Minimum Score Requirement for Australia in 2026

Students often get confused between IELTS and PTE while applying for Australia. Both are widely accepted by Australian universities, immigration, and work visas. The main difference lies in the scoring system and flexibility.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Which Test Should You Choose?

• Take IELTS if you are more comfortable with pen-and-paper tests and want to apply to countries beyond Australia.
• Take PTE if you prefer a computer-based test with quick results (usually within 48 hours).

Both IELTS and PTE are accepted equally by Australian immigration and universities in 2026. The choice depends on your strengths and test preference.

Step-by-Step Flow: PTE to Study, Work & PR in Australia

1. Take the PTE Exam

• Register for PTE Academic.
• Prepare for Speaking, Writing, Reading, Listening.
• Aim for 42+ (student visa) or 65+ (PR/work visa).

2. Get Your PTE Scorecard

• Results are available within 24–48 hours.
• Validity: 2 years for universities, 3 years for PR applications.

3. Apply for Australian Universities

• Minimum score depends on course level:
  
  • Diploma → 45
  • Bachelor’s → 50
  • Master’s → 65
    
• Submit PTE score along with other documents (SOP, LOR, transcripts).

4. Apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500)

• Minimum PTE score = 42.
• If 36–41, enroll in 10 weeks of ELICOS.
• If 30–35, enroll in 20 weeks of ELICOS.

5. Complete Studies in Australia

• Maintain good academic performance.
• Explore internships & part-time work to gain experience.

6. Apply for Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)

• Requires 50+ in each PTE skill.
• Lets you work in Australia for 2–4 years depending on course.

7. Apply for Permanent Residency (PR)

• For PR (Subclass 189/190/186):
  • Minimum PTE Score = 65 in each skill.
  • 79+ gives you an extra 20 points under English proficiency.

Conclusion

The minimum PTE score required for Australia is 65 for most student visas, PR and work visa categories. However, for student visas, you can still apply with a lower score if you take an ELICOS course. To increase your PR chances or get admission to top universities, aim for 65–79+.

Remember, your PTE score is valid for 2 years for admission and 3 years for immigration, so plan your test accordingly. With the right preparation, you can easily achieve the score you need to fulfill your dream of studying, working or settling in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions