English test scores for skilled migration
English is the highest-leverage category in the points test. Moving from Competent to Superior is a 20-point swing available to most people for a test fee and a few months of preparation. Here is exactly what each level needs, across every accepted test.
Competent English
Entry requirementThe minimum to be eligible for a skilled visa. Scores no points, but without it you cannot apply at all.
| Test | Score needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 6 in each band | Academic or General Training accepted for most skilled visas. |
| PTE Academic | 50 in each | Computer-based, fast results - popular for its quick turnaround. |
| TOEFL iBT | L12 R13 W21 S18 | Per-section minimums as listed. |
| OET | B in each | Healthcare-specific; grades A-E. |
| Cambridge C1/C2 | 169 in each | Advanced or Proficiency, scored on the Cambridge scale. |
Proficient English
+10 pointsWorth 10 points. Usually the cheapest 10 points available - a strong return for a few months of preparation.
| Test | Score needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 7 in each band | Academic or General Training accepted for most skilled visas. |
| PTE Academic | 65 in each | Computer-based, fast results - popular for its quick turnaround. |
| TOEFL iBT | L24 R24 W27 S23 | Per-section minimums as listed. |
| OET | B in each | Healthcare-specific; grades A-E. |
| Cambridge C1/C2 | 185 in each | Advanced or Proficiency, scored on the Cambridge scale. |
Superior English
+20 pointsWorth 20 points. The single highest-leverage, most reliable way to lift a skilled migration score.
| Test | Score needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 8 in each band | Academic or General Training accepted for most skilled visas. |
| PTE Academic | 79 in each | Computer-based, fast results - popular for its quick turnaround. |
| TOEFL iBT | L28 R29 W30 S26 | Per-section minimums as listed. |
| OET | A in each | Healthcare-specific; grades A-E. |
| Cambridge C1/C2 | 200 in each | Advanced or Proficiency, scored on the Cambridge scale. |
Some occupations need a higher score than the visa doesAccounting bodies and AITSL (teachers) require higher English for the skills assessment itself than the visa points test does. Check your assessing authority's requirement, not just the migration minimum.
Equivalences per the Department of Home Affairs, reviewed 21 July 2026. Test providers occasionally revise scoring - confirm before you book.
General information, not migration advice. myPRJourney summarises publicly available information about Australian visas so you can understand your options. It does not assess your case, and it is not a substitute for advice from a registered migration agent (MARN) or Australian legal practitioner. Migration rules, occupation lists, income thresholds and state nomination criteria change frequently and sometimes without notice. This page was last reviewed on 21 July 2026. Always confirm current requirements directly with the Department of Home Affairs at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.