Australia remains one of the most popular destinations for international students, skilled migrants, and professionals seeking permanent residency. Every year, thousands of applicants prepare for English proficiency tests such as the Pearson Test of English (PTE) to meet the language requirements for their Australian visa applications.
However, starting August 7, 2025, the Australian Government has officially announced changes to the PTE Academic score requirements for different visa categories and English proficiency levels. These Australia Visa PTE Score Changes Take Effect August 7, 2025, and they will have a direct impact on applicants planning to lodge visa applications after this date.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explain the Minimum Scores Required in PTE Exam for Australia 2025, detail the new PTE score update from Australian immigration, and help you understand how to prepare for these changes effectively.
Why PTE Scores Are Important for Australian Visas
English proficiency is a core requirement for most Australian visas. Whether you are applying for a student visa, skilled migration visa, or permanent residency, you must demonstrate that you can communicate effectively in English.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs accepts several English proficiency tests, including:
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IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
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TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
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Cambridge C1 Advanced
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OET (Occupational English Test – for healthcare professionals)
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PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
Among these, PTE Academic is one of the most popular options because:
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It is entirely computer-based
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Results are available quickly (within 48 hours in most cases)
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Test dates are widely available worldwide
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The scoring is automated and consistent
The Minimum Scores Required in PTE Exam for Australia 2025 are set by the Australian government to ensure that visa holders can integrate into society, perform well in their work or studies, and contribute effectively.
New PTE Score Update from Australian Immigration – Effective August 7, 2025
On August 7, 2025, the Australian immigration department is implementing a new PTE score update. This update slightly raises the minimum requirements for certain English proficiency levels, particularly at the Functional, Competent, Proficient, and Superior levels.
Here is the official comparison chart:
| English Proficiency Level |
Old PTE Score |
New PTE Score (from Aug 7, 2025) |
| Functional English |
30 |
32 |
| Vocational English |
36 |
36 (no change) |
| Competent English |
50 |
51 |
| Proficient English |
65 |
66 |
| Superior English |
79 |
84 |
Understanding Each Proficiency Level and Its Visa Implications
Each proficiency level corresponds to different visa eligibility criteria and opportunities. Let’s break them down:
1. Functional English – New Minimum Score: 32
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Old score requirement: 30
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New score requirement (from Aug 7, 2025): 32
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Common visa categories requiring Functional English:
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Partner visas (subclass 309, 820, 801, 100) when the sponsor is an Australian citizen or permanent resident
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Certain family visas
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Aged Parent visas
Impact of change:
The increase from 30 to 32 is relatively small but still important. For some applicants, this means they will need to prepare slightly more to achieve this score. If you are applying for a partner or family visa, meeting this requirement helps you avoid paying the English Language Charge.
2. Vocational English – Minimum Score: 36 (No Change)
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Old score requirement: 36
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New score requirement: 36 (no change)
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Common visa categories requiring Vocational English:
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Temporary Work (Skilled) visas
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Some employer-sponsored visas
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Trades and technical skilled occupations
Impact of change:
No change here means applicants can continue to aim for 36 as before. However, maintaining your preparation level is important because failing to meet even the unchanged requirement can delay your visa process.
3. Competent English – New Minimum Score: 51
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Old score requirement: 50
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New score requirement: 51
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Common visa categories requiring Competent English:
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Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)
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Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
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Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
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General Skilled Migration (GSM) program
Impact of change:
The increase from 50 to 51 may look minor, but it reflects a higher standard. Competent English is the minimum for most skilled migration visas, so missing even by one point means your application could be refused.
4. Proficient English – New Minimum Score: 66
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Old score requirement: 65
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New score requirement: 66
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Common visa categories requiring Proficient English:
Impact of change:
For many skilled visa applicants, achieving Proficient English not only meets the requirement but also gives 10 extra points in the migration points test. That single point increase will require test-takers to focus on accuracy and time management in the PTE.
5. Superior English – New Minimum Score: 84
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Old score requirement: 79
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New score requirement: 84
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Common visa categories requiring Superior English:
Impact of change:
This is the most significant increase among all levels. Jumping from 79 to 84 means applicants will need near-perfect command of English. This can be challenging even for highly skilled speakers, so early and targeted preparation is essential.
Why Did Australian Immigration Increase PTE Scores in 2025?
The New PTE score update from Australian immigration is part of broader policy adjustments aimed at:
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Improving workforce communication – Ensuring migrants can work effectively in professional environments.
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Enhancing integration – Stronger English skills make it easier for new arrivals to participate in community life.
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Maintaining international competitiveness – Australia competes with countries like Canada, the UK, and the US for skilled migrants; higher language standards align with global benchmarks.
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Reducing reliance on translation/interpreting services – This benefits both employers and government services.
Australia Visa PTE Score Changes Take Effect August 7, 2025 – What This Means for You
From August 7, 2025, the Minimum Scores Required in PTE Exam for Australia 2025 will be enforced for all visa applications lodged on or after that date.
This means:
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If you lodge your visa before August 7, 2025, the old score requirements apply.
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If you lodge your visa on or after August 7, 2025, the new scores apply.
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If your PTE score report is valid but below the new requirement, you cannot use it for a post-August 7, 2025, application.
How to Prepare for the New PTE Score Requirements
Given these changes, preparation is more important than ever. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
1. Understand the Test Format
PTE Academic tests:
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Speaking & Writing – 54 to 67 minutes
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Reading – 29 to 30 minutes
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Listening – 30 to 43 minutes
Knowing the format helps you manage time effectively.
2. Set a Target Above the Minimum
If your visa requires a score of 66, aim for at least 70. This buffer reduces stress and accounts for possible test-day variations.
3. Focus on Weak Areas
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Low in Reading? Practice fill-in-the-blanks and re-order paragraphs.
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Struggling in Speaking? Practice describing images and repeating sentences.
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Listening issues? Train with audio transcripts and dictation exercises.
4. Take Official Practice Tests
Pearson offers scored practice tests that give you an accurate prediction of your actual performance.
5. Consider Professional Coaching
An experienced PTE coach can help you master:
6. Retake Early if Needed
If you miss your target score, retake the exam quickly so your visa application is not delayed.
Common Questions About the New PTE Score Update
Q1: Will my old PTE score still be valid after August 7, 2025?
Answer: Only if you lodge your visa application before August 7, 2025. Otherwise, the new scores apply.
Q2: Why did Superior English increase by 5 points?
Answer: This reflects higher expectations for top-skilled migrants who claim the maximum language points.
Q3: Is PTE easier than IELTS for meeting the new requirements?
Answer: It depends on your strengths. PTE is often preferred by those who are comfortable with computer-based tests and want quick results.
Final Tips for Success
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Book your test early – PTE test centers can get fully booked during peak migration periods.
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Keep your scores valid – PTE Academic scores are valid for 2 years.
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Track policy updates – Immigration requirements can change again in the future.
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Don’t just aim to pass – Higher scores improve your migration points and visa approval chances.
Conclusion
The Minimum Scores Required in PTE Exam for Australia 2025 have officially increased for several proficiency levels under the new PTE score update from Australian immigration, which takes effect on August 7, 2025.
These Australia Visa PTE Score Changes Take Effect August 7, 2025 mean that applicants must prepare to meet slightly higher standards, especially at the Functional, Competent, Proficient, and Superior English levels.
If you are planning to apply for an Australian visa after August 7, 2025, start preparing now to ensure you meet or exceed these requirements. With proper strategy, consistent practice, and an understanding of the test format, you can achieve your target score and move one step closer to your dream of living, studying, or working in Australia.
