TL;DR

1. The PTE test is essential for Australian PR applications, assessing proficiency in speaking, writing, reading, and listening.
2. The minimum PTE score for most PR visas is between 47-54, but higher scores are needed for roles in high-demand areas like Skilled Migration.
3. Each PTE section has specific score requirements, such as 47 for Listening, 48 for reading, 51 for Writing and 54 for speaking impacting your PR eligibility.
4. The PTE test has undergone changes in 2025, including new tasks and slight adjustments to the test format.
5. If you don’t achieve the desired score, you can retake the test, with scores valid for two years.

Are you thinking of applying for Australian PR in 2025? Wondering how the PTE score impacts your application? The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a key requirement for many Australian visas, including skilled migration. A strong PTE score can not only meet the English proficiency requirement but also add valuable points to your PR application, improving your chances of success.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the PTE score requirements for 2025, how they affect different visa types, and offer tips on how to achieve your desired score. Let’s understand how the PTE test can shape your Australian PR journey.

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 The Department of Home Affairs for precise, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.

What is PTE and How Does It Impact Your Australian PR Application?

The PTE test is a computer-based exam that assesses your proficiency in the English language, focusing on speaking, writing, reading, and listening. It plays a significant role in determining your eligibility for various Australian visas, including the PR visa.

Overview of the PTE Test

The PTE Academic test evaluates your ability to communicate in English in an academic or professional environment. It’s widely accepted by Australian immigration authorities as proof of English proficiency.

Why It’s Required for Australian PR

Your PTE score is used as a key criterion in the PR visa application process. A higher score can definitely increase your chances of securing an invitation to apply for PR under points-based systems such as the Skilled Migration Visa.

The Importance of Scoring Well

A higher PTE score can make a significant difference in your application. With more points awarded for a strong English proficiency score, your PR chances increase, especially when competing with other applicants.

Understanding the PTE test and its role in your Australian PR journey is a critical first step. Now, let’s take a look at the specific score requirements for 2025 and how they might impact your application.

PTE Score Requirements for Australian PR in 2025

The PTE score required for Australian PR in 2025 varies depending on the visa type you’re applying for. Whether you’re applying for a Skilled Visa or a Partner Visa, your PTE score plays a key role in determining your eligibility.

1. General PTE Score Requirements: For most PR visas, the minimum PTE score is typically 47-54, depending on the visa category. However, some visa categories may require a higher score.
2. Skilled Migration Visa: For the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), you generally need a minimum of 47 for Listening, 48 for reading, 51 for Writing and 54 for speaking in each PTE component to score enough points for the invitation to apply.
3. Regional Visas: For regional migration visas, like the Subclass 494 and Subclass 491 visas, the requirements may differ. However, a score of 47-54 or above is often required.
4. Changes in Scoring in 2025: The 2025 scoring requirements are already in effect, bringing significant updates to how scores are calculated. With the introduction of new assessment systems, the scoring criteria have shifted, making it essential to stay informed about the latest updates. These adjustments have impacted the minimum scores required, so it’s important to understand the revised guidelines to remain compliant and perform optimally.

Now that you’re familiar with the general score requirements, let’s take a closer look at the PTE band score breakdown and how each section of the test contributes to your total score.

Understanding the PTE Band Score Breakdown (For tests taken on or after 7th August 2025)

The PTE test is made up of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section has its own score, which combines to form your overall score. Understanding the requirements for each section is key to achieving the score you need for your PR application.

Section	Description	Minimum Score for Australian PR	Maximum Score
Listening	Assesses your ability to understand spoken English.	47	90
Reading	Evaluates your comprehension of written English.	48	90
Writing	Measures your written communication skills.	51	90
Speaking	Tests your verbal communication skills.	54	90

Significance in Eligibility: Each component score plays a significant role in determining your total points for your PR application. A higher score in any section can improve your overall ranking in the points-based system.

Each section of the PTE test contributes to your eligibility for Australian PR, so it’s important to prepare strategically. Let’s now explore the latest changes to the PTE test in 2025, and how these updates might impact your preparation.

Major Updates to the PTE Academic Test in 2025

Starting in August 2025, the PTE test has undergone some major changes. These updates aim to make the test more comprehensive and reflective of real-life language skills, so it’s important to be aware of these changes as you prepare for the exam.

1. Test Duration

The PTE exam duration is extended by 15 minutes to accommodate new tasks and sections. Candidates will need to efficiently manage their time to stay focused throughout the exam.

2. New Tasks

Some new tasks, such as the Summarise Group Discussion (Speaking/Integrated) and Respond to a Situation (Speaking), have been added. These tasks aim to test your ability to summarise discussions and respond to real-life situations, both important skills for migration.

3. Section-Specific Changes

In the Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections, there have been slight adjustments in how tasks are assessed. For example, there is now more emphasis on active listening and summarising key points in the Listening section, along with clearer instructions for the newly introduced tasks.

With these changes to the PTE test format, it’s important to adapt your study strategy to meet these new requirements. Let’s now look at how you can best prepare for the test in 2025.

How to Prepare for the PTE Exam in 2025

Proper preparation is important for achieving the required PTE score for Australian PR. With the changes to the test in 2025, it’s more important than ever to develop an effective study plan.

Tips for Each Section:

1. Listening: Practice active listening and note-taking. Listen to a variety of English audio, including conversations and lectures, to improve comprehension.
2. Reading: Focus on reading comprehension exercises and work on understanding the main ideas and details.
3. Writing: Practice writing essays and reports. Work on clarity, grammar, and vocabulary.
4. Speaking: Record your responses to speaking prompts and work on fluency, pronunciation, and coherence.

Study Resources: 

1. Use practice tests, online courses, and books specifically designed for PTE preparation. These resources can give you a good understanding of the test format and the types of questions you’ll face.

Test-Taking Tips: 

1. Manage your time effectively during the test. Practice completing tasks within the time limits and focus on staying calm during the speaking and writing sections.

Preparing well for the PTE exam is the best way to achieve the required score for your Australian PR application. Now, let’s take a look at the option of retaking the test if necessary.

Can You Retake the PTE Test if You Don’t Achieve the Required Score?

It’s natural to be concerned about your PTE score, especially if you don’t achieve your desired result. The good news is that you can retake the test to improve your score.

1. Retake Policy: You can retake the PTE test as many times as needed, but there must be a gap of at least 5 days between test attempts.
2. Validity of PTE Scores: PTE scores are valid for two years (3 years if they are for GSM visas, that include subclass 189, subclass 190 and subclass 491), so you have plenty of time to retake the test and still use the score for your PR application.
3. Tips for Improvement: If you don’t achieve the score you need, focus on the areas where you struggled. Consider taking additional practice tests or enrolling in a PTE preparation course to sharpen your skills.

Don’t worry if you don’t achieve your desired PTE score the first time. You can always retake the test to enhance your results. Now, let’s explore other English proficiency tests for Australian PR.

Other English Proficiency Tests for Australian PR

While the PTE is a popular choice, it’s not the only English test accepted for Australian PR. Let’s explore other options available to you.

1. IELTS: The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is widely accepted for Australian PR. It’s recognised by most immigration authorities and universities.
2. TOEFL: The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is another option accepted by Australian immigration. It assesses your ability to use and understand English at a university level.
3. Cambridge C1 Advanced Test (C1 Advanced): Cambridge C1 Advanced Test test is designed for advanced learners of English and is accepted by Australian immigration authorities.
4. CELPIP General: CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program General) is another option that assesses English language proficiency and is recognised for Australian PR applications.
5. MET: The MET (Michigan English Test) is accepted by Australian immigration and universities as proof of your English language skills.
6. OET: The OET (Occupational English Test) is specifically designed for healthcare professionals and is accepted by Australian immigration for healthcare-related PR applications.
7. LANGUAGECERT Academic: The LANGUAGECERT Academic test is also accepted for Australian PR and assesses English language proficiency at an academic level.

Why Choose PTE? The PTE is often preferred by applicants who need faster results, as it provides a quicker turnaround time for results compared to IELTS or TOEFL.

Each of these tests has its own eligibility criteria. Be sure to check the requirements for the test you choose.

While PTE is widely accepted, it’s important to select the test that aligns with your strengths and preferences. If you’re uncertain, Knowbal can help you decide which test is best for your PR application. Contact us today for more guidance!

Final Thoughts

Achieving the required PTE score is an important step in your Australian PR application. With the latest changes to the PTE test in 2025, it’s important to be well-prepared. Whether you need to retake the test or explore other accepted language tests, we’re here to help you with the process.

If you’re planning to apply for Australian PR and need help understanding the PTE requirements, reach out to Knowbal for expert guidance and assistance. Let’s get started on your path to Australian residency.

Contact Knowbal Today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the minimum PTE score for Australian PR?

For most PR visas, the minimum score ranges from 47-54 depending on the visa category.

2. Can I retake the PTE test if I don’t get the score I need?

Yes, you can retake the PTE test, but there must be a gap of at least 5 days between test attempts.

3. How long is the PTE score valid for Australian PR?

PTE scores are generally valid for 2 years, 3 years if they are for GSM visas, that include subclass 189, subclass 190 and subclass 491, so you can use them within that period for your PR application.

4. How is the PTE different from IELTS?

PTE offers faster result turnaround compared to IELTS, and it’s computer-based, while IELTS is paper-based for writing.

5. What are the key sections in the PTE test?

The PTE test includes four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, each with its own score requirements.

Have more questions? Contact Knowbal!