For international students seeking a temporary graduate visa, understanding the PTE (Pearson Test of English) requirements is vital. As of 2025, the Department of Home Affairs has changed the minimum scores required for this visa, and if you are looking to apply for it, this blog page outlines the key requirements: the required PTE test scores, changes for the 485 visa, minimum scores for each section of the test, and more.
What Is the Required PTE Score for a 485 Visa?
A PTE Academic score indicates your English proficiency, which is one of the eligibility requirements of the 485 visa. Currently, the PTE score requirements for this visa stand at a minimum score of 55, indicating that you have "Competent English" skills.
Latest PTE Score Changes for Subclass 485 Visa
The Department of Home Affairs introduced changes in the English language test system for its 485 visa, coming into effect from 7 August 2025.
What Changed on 7 August 2025?
During this time, the Department of Home Affairs primarily changed the PTE Academic score requirements for 485 visa applications. Previously, applicants were required to achieve a minimum score of 50 in each section of the Pearson test. This new change introduced a component-based scoring format, which means different minimum scores for each of the components: Listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
Why Did Australia Change PTE Requirements?
English proficiency is an important requirement in the Australian migration framework that is overseen by the Department of Home Affairs. It ensures that visa holders who come to Australia temporarily or for permanent residency can participate in the community and workforce. Following this change in PTE score requirements, the Department of Home Affairs has updated the English language requirements to enhance the quality of the skilled workforce by raising the bar.
Minimum PTE Score Breakdown for Each Section
The PTE score requirements now include both an overall score and minimum scores for each section. For each level of English (Competent, Proficient, and Superior), you will need both minimum overall scores and minimum component scores for each of these individual components:
Listening Requirement
- Competent: 47
- Proficient: 58
- Superior: 69
Reading Requirement
- Competent: 48
- Proficient: 59
- Superior: 70
Writing Requirement
- Competent: 51
- Proficient: 69
- Superior: 85
Speaking Requirement
- Competent: 54
- Proficient: 76
- Superior: 88
Old vs New PTE Requirements for 485 Visa
Here is a breakdown of the 485 visa's minimum PTE test scores for Competent English, before and after 7 August 2025:
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PTE Score Validity for Subclass 485 Visa
Earlier, PTE Academic test scores remained valid for three years from the day you take your test. Now, after 7 August 2025, tests can only be valid for a year, and only if taken at an approved testing center. The Department of Home Affairs does not accept any online (remote-proctored) or 'at-home' tests, including PTE Academic Online, IELTS Online, TOEFL iBT - Home Edition, and CELPIP Online.
Who Needs to Submit a PTE Score?
If you are looking to migrate through subclass 485, it is also important to understand whether you actually need a PTE Academic score or not. The following outlines who may need to provide an English test score:
Applicants Required to Show English Proof
Applicants of both the graduate and post-graduate work streams need to have a valid PTE score to be eligible.
Passport Exemptions
Applicants with a United States of America, New Zealand, Canada, Republic of Ireland, or British National overseas passport are exempt from the PTE score requirement.
PTE vs IELTS Score for 485 Visa
You may choose from several approved English language tests to demonstrate your English proficiency. Applicants for the Subclass 485 visa can choose from a broad range of approved tests, and one of the most popular ones is the IELTS exam.
Equivalent IELTS Score
If you opt for the IELTS test, you will need to get an equivalent of the minimum required PTE Academic score. Currently, that equivalent is an overall 6.5 IELTS score, with a minimum of 6 in each band (listening, reading, writing, and speaking) for Competent English.
Which Test Is Easier – PTE or IELTS?
"Easier" is very subjective amongst test participants, but in the majority, the PTE Academic test is considered more manageable because of these reasons:
- It is a computer-based test with AI scoring; hence, there is no human bias or interaction with examiners.
- Tasks like "Summarise Spoken Test" or "Read Aloud" let you score points for multiple skills simultaneously.
- PTE typically provides results faster than IELTS, often within 24-48 hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the smallest errors can lead to processing delays in your visa application. Here are the common pitfalls to stay away from:
Ignoring Sectional Cutoffs
Remember, the new rule for PTE scores means every section counts. You must achieve the minimum scores for each component, and not just for your overall test score, to remain eligible.
Using Expired Test Results
Your test score must be valid at the time of application lodgement. If you took your test before 7 August 2025, it will stay valid for three years. Otherwise, you will have only a year to lodge before your test results become invalid.
Assuming Old Scores Are Valid
When appearing for the test, it is always best to brush up on your knowledge about current score thresholds. If you simply aim for an overall score, your test results will not be eligible, now that the Department of Home Affairs requires component-based scores.
Tips to Achieve the Required PTE Score
Follow these tips to maximise your efforts for achieving an optimal PTE score:
Focus on Speaking & Writing
This is often where students lag behind. Practice your English speaking fluency and writing speed, and aim for a steady, confident pace.
Practice With AI Tools & Mock Tests
Since the PTE test is a computer-based, practice on computerised, AI-led test platforms. Participate in various AI-driven mock tests to evaluate your scores and determine where to improve.
Target Score Strategy (Aim 60+ for Safety)
An overall 55 is the minimum, but it is always recommended to aim for 60 or higher. That is your safe bet, especially in case you score lower in one section during the exam.
How Australian Migration Agents Can Help
At Australian Migration Agents, our highly skilled team ensures that you proceed with up-to-date, transparent legal guidance to ace your PTE Academic test. Our seasoned migration agents provide step-by-step advice, so you can not only navigate your PTE test but also lodge your 485 visa application seamlessly. Moreover, we coordinate directly with the Department of Home Affairs, providing you with timely updates so you're never worried about your application status.
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FAQs on PTE Score for 485 Visa
How much pte score is required for a 485 visa?
As per the new guidelines, an overall score of 55 with 47 in listening, 48 in reading, 51 in writing, and 54 in speaking is required to be eligible.
Can I get a visa with a PTE score of 50?
No, not the 485 visa. A minimum PTE score of 55 is mandatory.
Is 72 a good score in PTE?
Yes. That is a very strong score, given that it also satisfies the component-based minimum scores.
Can I take an English test other than PTE?
Yes, you can consider other approved alternatives, like IELTS.
What happens if I don’t pass the PTE on my first attempt?
You can retake your PTE test as many times as you want.
Will a higher score improve my chances for PR later?
Yes. A higher score can secure you enough points for a future application for permanent residency.
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