Key Highlights
Benefits of PTE Exam for Australia Immigration
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PTE scores are easily accepted by Australian immigration authorities
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The entire test is constructed on one day itself
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The exam pattern is quite easy to understand
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The test is divided into different types for different purposes so you can take the desired exam.
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PTE test scores are valid for two years
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The PTE scores are great compared to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL).
Latest Facts and News
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In 2024, over 40 Australian universities accept PTE scores for admissions
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The minimum PTE score for an Australian student visa remains at 42
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PTE scores are valid for 2 years for Australian visa and university applications
The question is- how much PTE score required for Australia in 2024? If you want to move to an English-speaking country, one of the first things you must do is submit proof of English proficiency. Any English-speaking country requires proof of your linguistic ability to ensure that you speak the predominant language and can, therefore, address the country well. There are many tests that you can take to prove your language prophecy. One of them is the PTE exam. The PTE exam stands for the Pearson Test for the English exam. Students and job seekers who do not have an English-speaking background or English as their first language must take this test to prove that they are well-versed in the language.
The PTE exam is a computer-based exam that you can take to prove your competency in English. Over 3500 institutions around the world accept it. Many submit PTE scores to secure job offers as well. Countries which most commonly accept the PTE exam are the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
The PTE exam is at least a three-hour test. It measures your English against four parameters: reading, writing, speaking and listening. The test is created so that all questions test at least two of these skills simultaneously. These tests are administered at designated test centres at periodic intervals around the year. So, how much PTE score required for Australia? Keep reading this blog to learn about the core requirements for different applications in Australia.
Also Read: Minimum PTE Score for Australia in 2024: Latest Guide
PTE Exam Pattern
The PTE exam tests four segments of your proficiency in English - listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Speaking and writing are clubbed into one section. Listening and reading are two individual sections. Thus, you are tested on a total of three segments. The three sections are organized in the following manner:
Section |
Segments per Section |
Number of Questions |
Duration |
Speaking and Writing |
6 |
25 to 35 questions |
50 to 70 minutes |
Listening |
5 |
13 to 18 questions |
25 to 30 minutes |
Reading |
8 |
12 to 20 questions |
35 to 40 minutes |
Types of PTE Exam for Australia
The PTE exam is of three types - PTE Academic, PTE Academic Online, and PTE General:
1. PTE Academic
The PTE Academic is curated for individuals who wish to move to an English-speaking country. It is primarily used for students who wish to study in an English-speaking country but can be taken by people moving to such countries for job purposes. The PTE test is often used to supplement acquiring a work permit for Australia or New Zealand.
2. PTE UK Visa Tests
The PTE UK Visa test is a valid measure of proficiency while applying for visas to live and work in the United Kingdom. It is accessible easily, and the results can be generated within two days. This test has a few sub-types; depending on what type of visa you are aiming for, you can choose a test. For a family visa, the PTE Home A1 is needed. If you are applying for citizenship in the UK or just settlement, the PTE Home B1 is needed. Furthermore, suppose you are applying to study in the UK for education before higher education, that is, before degree level. In that case, you must take the PTE Academic UKVI, which also falls under UK visa testing and differs from PTE Academic tests.
3. PTE Core General
The PTE Core is the English proficiency test used to prove your proficiency in the language while moving to a non-English speaking European country. This general test can also be taken by individuals who wish to take a proficiency test in English for travel or work purposes. It is a valid measure of proficiency for immigrants wishing to obtain permanent residency in Canada, too. The PTE Core test checks six levels of proficiency linked to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL).
The differences between the Academic and General versions of the test are summed up below:
PTE Academic |
PTE Core |
|
Purpose of Exam |
To prove academic proficiency in English while immigrating to an English-speaking country |
To prove working proficiency in English while immigrating to a non-English speaking country (or to Canada with PR) |
Format |
Four sections, including:
|
Four sections, including:
|
Validity of Exam |
2 years, must be retaken after expiry |
2 years, must be retaken after expiry |
How To Register |
Via the official Pearson website |
Via the test centres |
Duration of Exam |
3 hours |
1.5 to 3 hours |
Exam months |
It can be taken every month |
It can be taken anytime |
Minimum PTE Score for Australia
The minimum score for PTE in Australia varies from requirement to requirement. So, how much PTE score required for Australia? Generally, the minimum score required for Australia via PTE is 65. So, if you attend the PT exam, your results must be above 65 to be considered for immigration to Australia. Without a score of 65, you cannot live in Australia. So, ensure that your grade is well above 65. A score of 50 or above might also let you apply for immigration to Australia, but without gaining any points. Thus, you can still apply for PR with a score of 50 if you are lucky enough. However, it does not guarantee that you might qualify for PR in Australia.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs acknowledges the PTE exam scores. It has categorised English proficiency levels into 5 categories:
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Functional English
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Vocational English
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Competent English
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Proficient English
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Superior English
Also Read: Explore Study in Australia for International Students
PTE Score for Australia Student Visa
How much PTE score required for Australia student visa? Australia is a hotspot for educational immigration. As a result, many immigrate to Australia to study. If you wish to study in Australia, you must apply for the PTE exam and submit your scores to prove your proficiency in English.
For a student visa, the minimum PTE score that you must demonstrate is 42. If you have engaged in ELICOS, a score of 36 is accepted within 10 weeks of attempting the exam. A score of 30 is accepted with at least 20 weeks of ELICOS. However, you might need to up your scores as universities usually demonstrate a need for a higher score. So, universities will require you to submit higher scores, depending on your course and language requirements.
Minimum PTE Scores by Study Level in Australia
When you ask, “how much PTE score required for Australia?” You may also consider the different score levels required for different education levels. Depending on your study level, your Australia PTE score requirement will differ. If you are applying for a bachelor's degree, your Australia PTE score requirements will differ from what a master's degree requirement is.
The table below demonstrates the Australia PTE Score requirements by study level:
Study Level |
Overall Score Required |
Minimum in Each Skill |
Diploma |
45 |
36 |
Bachelors |
50 |
45 |
Masters |
65 |
50 |
Graduate |
65 |
50 |
PTE Score for Australia PR
The minimum PTE score for Australia PR is different from the academic requirements of PTE. To get a PR opportunity, you must submit proof of English proficiency and undertake English testing scores. PTE is one such test. To get PR, you must get a PTE score of at least 65 for Australia PR. PR applicants must get 65 or more 65 to be considered for PR in Australia.
PTE Score for Australia Work Visa
The PTE score for an Australia work visa is different from other PTE score requirements. For a work visa, the employer has the right to decide how much functionality in English they need for their job. However, you need to score at least a 65 on the PTE exam to get a work visa. Sometimes, scores of 30 and above also get accepted, but that is in very rare cases. So when you ask- how much PTE score required for Australia- this is your answer. There is a score range that is generally considered to be an abiding authority when it comes to PTE scores. Commonly, a threshold of 50 to 65 is considered competent and good enough for Australian immigration.
Universities Accepting PTE 50 in Australia
Several universities accept a minimum score of 50 in the PTE exam. This is below the average threshold of 65 and is, therefore, a popular choice of universities among students from non-English speaking backgrounds. They are listed below:
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Victoria University
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RMIT University
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University of Newcastle
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University of Canberra
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Deakin University
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University of Tasmania
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La Trobe University
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University of Sunshine Coast
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Swinburne University of Technology
Read More: Expression of Interest Australia: Expert Guide & Tips 2024
Conclusion
Thus, if you ask, “how much PTE score is required for Australia?” Now, you already have your answer. There are many universities and work spaces that accept PTE as an appropriate measure of English. The PTE exam is easy to understand and comprehend. It is quite scoring as well. If you want to start your preparation for the PTE exam and do not know where to start, you are at the right place! TerraTern is a leader in global immigration services and we offer entrance exam training as well, including PTE, to help you achieve your global mobility goals. Reach out to us now for more assistance or information.