English proficiency for Australia’s skilled visa is a factor that directly affects the chance of a successful application. English level is not just a minimum requirement, it also determines how many points you are awarded on the immigration points test.
Three English levels for Australia’s skilled visa
Australia’s immigration system divides English proficiency into three levels, each attached to a different point score:
- Competent: minimum IELTS 6.0 in each skill (or PTE 50) — the condition required to apply, 0 points;
- Proficient: IELTS 7.0 in each skill (or PTE 65) — 10 points;
- Superior: IELTS 8.0 in each skill (or PTE 79) — 20 points.
Accepted exams
You can choose from several different exams, as long as they are recognized. The most common are IELTS and PTE Academic, alongside TOEFL iBT, OET and Cambridge C1 Advanced.
Each skill score must meet the threshold; an average score is not used.
Why the English score matters
Theo the Australian Department of Home Affairs, the gap between Competent and Superior can be as much as 20 points.
With cut-off scores rising for categories such as Skilled Independent, this 20-point gap is often the deciding factor between receiving an invitation and not.
Advice
You should aim for at least Proficient, ideally Superior, to maximize your score. Investing in English typically pays off more than harder-to-change factors such as age.
After achieving your score, you complete the skills assessment and submit your application. The M2W team will advise on the right score pathway for you.
Read more: Overview of Australian migration · Australian Skilled Visa 2026: Australia Adjusts Income Thresholds from 1 July 2026
