PTE Score Validity and Expiry Explained

TL;DR

• PTE Academic scores are valid for 2 years from your test date. Expired scores are not accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.
• A valid PTE is required for student visas, skilled migration, employer-sponsored visas, and PR pathways.
• Log in to your Pearson PTE account → “My Activity”/“Score Reports” → check test date and expiry date.
• You must retake the test. Expired scores cannot be used for visa applications.
• Besides PTE, Australia accepts IELTS, TOEFL iBT, OET (for healthcare), and Cambridge C1 Advanced.

When you apply for an Australian visa, all of your documents are important. Your English test score is no different. The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests for study, work, and migration purposes.

Thousands of applicants each year choose PTE because it’s computer-based, quick to schedule, and delivers fast results. But here’s something many applicants overlook: PTE scores come with an expiry date. Pearson reported a 50% annual increase in PTE test volume in 2023, surpassing 1 million tests administered worldwide.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how long a PTE validity is, why it matters for your visa journey, and what to do if your score is nearing expiry. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of how to plan your application timeline and avoid unnecessary setbacks.

Please Note: This article serves as a general guide to help you understand the topic, with information accurate as of the publication date. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent or check The Department of Home Affairs for precise, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.

What is PTE Score Validity?

PTE Academic scores are generally valid for two years from the date you sit the test, and this period applies to most universities and visa categories.

However, for migration purposes, the Department of Home Affairs applies different validity rules depending on the visa subclass. If you are applying for a General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa, such as subclass 189, 190, or 491, your PTE result is considered valid for three years. On the other hand, for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), the validity is only one year.

For example, if you took your PTE test on 1 August 2023, your score would remain valid until 31 July 2025 under the standard two-year rule, until 31 July 2026 if you are applying for a GSM visa, and only until 31 July 2024 if you are applying for a 485 visa. It is important to remember that your PTE score must still be valid at the time you lodge your application, as expired results are not accepted. This makes careful planning around your test date essential, especially for skilled migration visas where processing times can be lengthy.

Why PTE Validity Matters for Australian Migration?

Understanding why PTE validity matters is crucial for anyone planning to study, work, or settle in Australia. Since your test results are directly linked to visa eligibility, overlooking their expiry date can create costly setbacks.

Here’s how PTE validity impacts different stages of the migration process:

1. Meeting Visa Requirements

PTE Academic is accepted for almost all Australian visas that need English skills. This includes student visas, skilled migration, and permanent residency. However, the Department of Home Affairs will only consider a valid score. If your PTE has expired, your application won’t move forward, even if you had achieved an excellent score.

2. Avoiding Delays in Application Processing

Visa processing can take months, and in some cases, longer. If your PTE score expires during this period, you may be asked to submit a new test result. This not only slows down the process but also increases the risk of your visa application being refused.

3. Staying Eligible for Skilled Migration Invitations

People who want to apply for skilled visas under subclass 189, 190, or 491 must first send in an Expression of Interest (EOI). If the time on your PTE score runs out before you’re invited, your EOI might not work anymore. You might have to take the test again and update your information, which could cost you a spot in a competitive round.

4. Reducing Extra Costs and Stress

Retaking PTE is not only time-consuming but also expensive. Many applicants face unnecessary stress because they didn’t keep track of their score’s validity period. Planning your visa application around the two-year timeframe can save both money and effort.

5. Securing Permanent Residency Pathways

For those aiming for PR, valid English test results are essential at each stage of the application. Missing this requirement can delay your pathway to residency and disrupt your long-term plans in Australia.

With this in mind, it’s important to understand how PTE validity applies across different visa categories in Australia.

PTE Validity for Different Visa Categories

The Department of Home Affairs accepts PTE Academic scores across a wide range of visa subclasses. On the other hand, the score must still be valid (within two years) when you apply.

Below are some key visa categories where PTE plays an important role:

Skilled Migration Visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491)

For General Skilled Migration visas, including subclass 189, 190, and 491, PTE is used both to demonstrate the required level of English proficiency and to claim points toward eligibility. Unlike the standard two-year validity, PTE results are accepted for up to three years for these visa subclasses. This means your score must still be valid on the date you lodge your Expression of Interest (EOI) and when your visa application is submitted. If your score has expired beyond the three-year window, you will need to retake the test to remain eligible.

Employer-Sponsored Visas (Subclass 482, 186, 494)

Employers nominating overseas workers must make sure the applicant meets minimum English requirements. A valid PTE score is essential for demonstrating eligibility, and an expired result can delay both the nomination and the visa grant.

Student Visas (Subclass 500)

Students must show proof of English ability when applying for a visa to study in Australia. A valid PTE score is accepted by both universities and the Department of Home Affairs. If your PTE result has expired, you may need to re-sit the test before submitting your visa application.

Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways

Whether through skilled migration, employer sponsorship, or other streams, English proficiency is a critical requirement for PR. A valid PTE result helps make sure your application is assessed smoothly and without delays.

Knowing which visas require valid PTE scores is only half the story — you also need to track your test status to make sure your score is still valid when you apply. Here’s how you can check it.

How to Check If Your PTE Score Is Still Valid?

It’s important to keep track of your PTE exam validity to make sure your score can still be used for visa or study applications. Checking your score status is simple and can be done directly through Pearson’s official portal.

Here’s how:

1. Log in to your PTE account: Visit the official Pearson PTE website and sign in using your registered email ID and password.
2. Access your score report: Once logged in, go to the “My Activity” or “Score Reports” section. Here, you can view all your test attempts along with detailed score information.
3. Check the validity period: Your score report will clearly show the test date and the expiry date. For most purposes, a PTE Academic score is valid for two years from the test date. In some immigration cases (depending on the country and policy updates), the validity may extend up to three years, but for Australian visas it is generally capped at two years.

By regularly checking your PTE score validity, you can avoid last-minute surprises during your visa application. If your result is nearing expiry, consider retaking the test early to make sure a smooth application process without unnecessary delays.

But what if your PTE score has already expired? Let’s explore the possible consequences and how they might affect your visa pathway.

What Happens If Your PTE Score Expires?

Once your PTE score passes the two-year validity period, it is no longer accepted by the Australian Department of Home Affairs or by universities for admissions. Even if you scored very high, an expired PTE result cannot be used for any visa or migration purpose.

Here’s what this means for applicants:

1. Visa refusal: If your PTE score expires before you lodge your application, your file will be considered incomplete, and your application may be refused. You cannot meet the English language requirement without a valid test result.
2. You may lose valuable time: Skilled migration visas, such as subclass 189, 190, or 491, work on invitation rounds. If your PTE score expires during this stage, your Expression of Interest (EOI) may be rejected, forcing you to wait for another round after retaking the test.
3. Extra work and costs: If you want to retake the exam, you’ll have to pay more, study again, and wait for the results, which can all slow down your visa process.
4. Impact on permanent residency plans: For applicants working toward PR, an expired score can push back the entire residency pathway, as each stage of the application requires valid evidence of English proficiency.

Tip: If your PTE result is close to expiring and you haven’t yet lodged your application, it’s better to book a new test early rather than risk rejection or delay.

The good news is that with some careful planning, you can avoid these issues altogether. Here are some practical tips to help you manage your PTE validity effectively.

Tips to Manage PTE Validity for Visa Applicants

Since PTE Academic scores remain valid for only two years, it’s important to plan your visa journey around this timeframe. Keeping track of your score validity can save you from delays, extra costs, and missed opportunities.

Here are some practical ways to manage it:

1. Record Your Expiry Date Early

As soon as you receive your PTE results, note both the test date and the expiry date. Setting a reminder a few months before expiry will give you enough time to act if needed.

2. Factor in Visa Processing Times

Some visa categories, such as skilled migration visas (189, 190, 491), may take several months to process. To make sure your PTE score remains valid throughout, regularly check your score status on Pearson’s portal and plan your test retake accordingly before expiry. Always check that your score won’t expire mid-process.

3. Retake the Test in Advance

If your score is nearing expiry, it’s wise to retake the PTE at least 3–6 months before the deadline. This provides a buffer in case test slots are full or you need extra time to achieve the required score.

4. Explore Alternative English Tests

Australia also accepts other English tests such as IELTS, TOEFL iBT, OET, and Cambridge C1 Advanced. Having these as backup options makes sure you don’t get stuck if PTE test centres are unavailable or timelines are tight.

5. Stay Informed About Visa Requirements

For example, you need to be “functional,” “competent,” or “proficient” in English for different visas. Always review the latest requirements from the Department of Home Affairs so you know whether your score still meets the standard for your visa category.

If you’re wondering about alternatives in case your PTE is close to expiry or you want another option, here are other English tests that are accepted in Australia.

Alternative English Tests Accepted in Australia

While PTE Academic is a popular choice, the Australian Department of Home Affairs recognises several other English tests for migration and study purposes.

Here are the main alternatives:

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

1. Accepted worldwide and recognised for all Australian visa subclasses.
2. Available in two formats: Academic (for study) and General Training (for migration).
3. Trusted option for both skilled migration and permanent residency.

TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet-based Test)

1. Fully computer-based, testing reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
2. Scores remain valid for two years.
3. Accepted for student visas, skilled migration, and other pathways.

OET (Occupational English Test)

1. Designed for healthcare professionals such as nurses, doctors, and allied health workers.
2. Focuses on English used in professional medical contexts.
3. Accepted for both registration with medical boards and visa applications.

Cambridge C1 Advanced (formerly CAE)

1. Aimed at advanced English learners.
2. Accepted for higher education as well as visa applications.
3. Results are valid for two years when used for migration purposes.

CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program – General)

1. Tests listening, reading, writing, and speaking in everyday English.
2. Now accepted for Australian migration purposes.

LANGUAGECERT Academic Test

1. Computer-based, flexible scheduling with remote proctoring.
2. Covers all four English skills.
3. Recognised for study and migration pathways.

Michigan English Test (MET), including Single Section Retake (SSR)

1. Focuses on academic and professional English skills.
2. Offers flexibility to retake a single section if needed.
3. Accepted for both migration and study purposes.

Key Takeaway: While PTE remains popular for its quick results and computer-based format, IELTS continues to be the most globally recognised option. TOEFL provides another strong alternative, OET is best suited for healthcare applicants, Cambridge C1 Advanced works well for advanced English users, while CELPIP, LanguageCert, and MET offer new and flexible pathways for applicants. Whatever test you choose, the most important step is ensuring your results remain valid throughout your visa journey.

Ultimately, whichever test you choose, the key is to stay proactive and make sure your results remain valid throughout your visa journey.

Conclusion

Keeping track of your PTE validity is a small detail that can make a big difference in your migration journey. Since expired scores are not accepted by the Department of Home Affairs, being proactive about your test date, planning around visa timelines, and retaking the exam early if needed can save you from costly delays.

Whether you’re applying for a student visa, skilled migration, or permanent residency, managing your English test validity makes sure that your application stays on track.

If you’re unsure about your next steps or want expert guidance on your visa pathway, Knowbal can help you go through the process with confidence. Get in touch with our team today and take one step closer to achieving your goal of living, studying, or working in Australia.

FAQs

1. How long is a PTE score valid for Australian visas?

PTE Academic scores are valid for two years from the date of the test. For migration purposes in Australia, expired scores are not accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.

2. Can I use an expired PTE score for a visa application?

No. Once your PTE score has expired, it cannot be used for visa, PR, or university applications. You will need to retake the test.

3. Does PTE validity differ for study and migration purposes?

For Australian migration and visa applications, PTE validity is strictly two years. Some countries may recognise PTE for up to three years in immigration contexts, but this does not apply to Australia.

4. What happens if my PTE score expires during visa processing?

If your PTE score expires while your application is being assessed, the Department of Home Affairs may request a new valid score. This can delay or even affect the outcome of your application.

5. When should I retake my PTE test to avoid expiry issues?

It’s best to retake your PTE at least 3–6 months before expiry if you haven’t lodged your visa application yet. This makes sure you have a valid score throughout the application period.

6. Are there alternatives to PTE for Australian visas?

Yes. Other accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL iBT, OET, and Cambridge C1 Advanced. These can be used if your PTE score has expired or if you prefer another testing format.

7. Is PTE easier than IELTS for migration purposes?

Both PTE and IELTS are accepted for Australian visas. PTE is computer-based and often chosen for its fast results, while IELTS is widely recognised and offers both computer-delivered and paper-based options.