TL;DR
- To apply for PR in Australia, you need to score a minimum of 65 points.
- Your Master’s degree can earn you 15 points, with additional points if it’s in high-demand fields like STEM or ICT.
- Points are also awarded for age (maximum 30 points), English proficiency (up to 20 points), and work experience (up to 20 points).
- Key visa options for MBA holders include Subclass 189, Subclass 190, and Subclass 491, all requiring a minimum of 65 points.
- To improve your chances, focus on boosting English skills, gaining Australian work experience, and exploring state nominations for extra points.
Are you an MBA graduate dreaming of making Australia your permanent home? With Australia’s growing economy and thriving job market, it’s no surprise that many skilled professionals, especially MBA graduates, are eager to build their careers here. But you might be wondering, how can you use your MBA to secure Permanent Residency (PR) in Australia? What does the PR points system look like for someone with your qualifications?
Don’t worry! In this blog, we’ll walk you through how the Australian PR points system works for MBA holders, how to score points with your qualifications and experience, and the best visa pathways for you to apply for PR.
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 the Australia PR Points System?
The Australian PR points system is how the government evaluates applicants for skilled migration visas. To be eligible for some of these visas, you need to score at least 65 points, which will determine your ability to stay and work permanently in Australia.
The points are awarded based on the following factors:
- Age
- English language proficiency
- Educational qualifications
- Work experience
Other criteria, like partner skills and regional study
As an MBA holder, you’re already in a strong position, but understanding how the points system works will help you maximise your chances of securing PR.
Understanding MBA PR Points in Australia
If you hold an MBA, you’re likely to earn points under the Educational Qualifications category. Here’s how your MBA can contribute:
Master’s Degree Points
For holding a Master’s degree (like an MBA), you can earn 15 points. This is a great start, especially since a Master’s degree aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), which is recognised by the government.
Master’s Degree in Specified Fields
If your MBA has a specialisation in fields like business, management, or finance, you may be eligible for additional points. This is because qualifications in business and related fields are in high demand. Having an MBA in a relevant field, such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), engineering, or finance, can provide a significant advantage when applying for PR.
In summary, your MBA can help you build a solid foundation for your PR application, but it’s just one part of the larger picture. Let’s dive into the other factors that can contribute to your overall points score.
How to Score 65 Points (Maximising Your Points with an MBA)
To qualify for an Australian PR, you need a minimum of 65 points. Here’s how you can score those points as an MBA holder:
1. Age
Your age is one of the most important factors in the PR points system. Here’s how the age points work:
- 18-24 years old: 25 points
- 25-32 years old: 30 points
- 33-39 years old: 25 points
- 40-44 years old: 15 points
- 45 years and above: 0 points
If you’re between 25-32 years old, you’ll earn the maximum 30 points for age, which is a huge advantage.
2. English Language Proficiency
Australia places great emphasis on English proficiency. If you take a recognised test like IELTS or PTE, your score can significantly add to your points:
- Competent English (IELTS 6): 0 points
- Proficient English (IELTS 7): 10 points
- Superior English (IELTS 8): 20 points
The higher your English score, the more points you can earn, and for a professional like you, achieving Proficient or Superior English will improve your chances.
3. Work Experience
You can also earn points for your work experience, both in Australia and overseas. Here’s how it works:
Overseas Work Experience:
- Less than 3 years: 0 points
- 3-5 years: 5 points
- 5-8 years: 10 points
- 8 years or more: 15 points
Australian Work Experience:
- Less than 1 year: 0 points
- 1-3 years: 5 points
- 3-5 years: 10 points
- 5-8 years: 15 points
- 8 years or more: 20 points
The more work experience you have, particularly Australian experience, the better your chances of gaining additional points.
Master’s Degree + Age + English + Work Experience = 65+ Points
By combining your Master’s degree, a good age bracket, strong English skills, and relevant work experience, you’ll easily meet the 65-point requirement. Now, let’s take a look at the visa options available to you.
Key Visa Subclasses for Master’s Degree Holders
Once you’ve accumulated the necessary points, it’s time to choose the right visa pathway. Here are the top visa subclasses for MBA holders:
1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
This visa allows skilled employers to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia.
PR Points Required: 65 points (minimum).
Key Requirements: Age, work experience, skills assessment, and English proficiency.
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
This visa allows skilled employers to live and work in Australia, but you’ll need to be nominated by a state or territory government.
PR Points Required: 65 points (minimum), but state nomination may add more points.
Key Requirements: State nomination, skills assessment, age, and English proficiency.
3. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
This is for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or family member to live and work in regional Australia.
PR Points Required: 65 points (minimum).
Key Requirements: State or family nomination, skills assessment, age, and English proficiency.
All three of these visas offer pathways to permanent residency, and your MBA will help position you for success in these visa categories.
Next Steps for Master’s Degree Holders Seeking PR
So, you’ve got your Master’s degree, and you’re wondering how to move forward? Here’s what you can do to improve your chances of securing PR in Australia:
1. Improve Your English Skills
Higher proficiency in English can add 10-20 points. Take the IELTS or PTE to get your score and boost your chances.
2. Gain Relevant Work Experience
If you don’t have Australian work experience, now is the time to look for internships or job opportunities in your field. The more work experience you have, the more points you’ll earn.
3. Apply for State Nominations
If you are eligible for a state or territory nomination, this can provide you with additional points. Look into regional areas where your skills are in demand.
4. Submit Your Expression of Interest (EOI)
Once you have enough points, submit your EOI through SkillSelect. This will signal your intent to apply for a skilled migration visa.
It’s always a good idea to consult with a registered migration agent to ensure you’re following the correct process and have all the necessary documents.
Final Thoughts
With your Master’s degree, you’re already in a great position to earn the points needed for Australian permanent residency. By boosting your age points, improving your English skills, gaining relevant work experience, and considering state nominations, you can maximise your chances of success. Remember, the process can be complex, so don’t hesitate to consult a migration agent for professional advice.
Ready to start your PR journey? Reach out to Knowbal today, and let us guide you through the steps towards making Australia your permanent home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many points do I get for a Master’s degree in Australia?
You earn 15 points for holding a Master’s degree from an Australian educational institution.
2. Can I apply for PR if my Master’s degree is from overseas?
Yes, you can still apply, but your qualification needs to be recognised by the relevant assessing authority.
3. What is the minimum age to apply for PR with an MBA?
You must be under 45 years old to apply for PR through skilled migration, but applicants under 33 years old earn the most points.
4. What is the minimum number of points required to apply for PR in Australia?
You need at least 65 points to qualify for skilled migration visas.
5. Am I eligible for a skilled migration visa if I don’t have Australian work experience?
Yes, you are, but you’ll need to gain work experience, either overseas or within Australia, to boost your points score.
Have more questions? Contact Knowbal!
