Australia Visa PTE Score Changes Take Effect August 7, 2025
If you’re planning to move to Australia and plan to use your PTE Academic test to meet English language requirements, there’s been a small—but important—change you need to be aware of.
From August 7, 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has updated the minimum PTE scores required for a range of visa types. The change might only be a few points, but when you’re trying to meet visa criteria, that small shift can be a big deal.
Here’s the key thing:
If you took your PTE test before August 7, 2025, the new scores won’t affect you. Your previous results are still valid. But for everyone else—from today onward—the new scores apply.
What’s Changing?
To keep things clear, here’s how the new PTE score requirements compare with the old ones:
| English Proficiency Level | Old PTE Score | New PTE Score (from Aug 7, 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Functional English | 30 | 24 |
| Vocational English | 36 | 33, 36, 24, 29 |
| Competent English | 50 | 47, 48, 54, 51 |
| Proficient English | 65 | 58, 59, 76, 69 |
| Superior English | 79 | 69, 70, 88, 85 |
It might only look like a 1–2 point increase, but if you’re right on the edge—or planning a retake soon—those points matter.
Visas This Impacts
If your visa application relies on showing English proficiency through PTE, you’ll want to pay attention. The new scoring system affects:
New PTE tests require an overall score of 47. However, your individual college may require a higher score depending on the course you are undertaking.
This now requires a new overall PTE score of 55 (previously 57). Please note, you must also meet the individual band scores for Speaking (39), Listening (40), Reading (42) and Writing (41).
Competent English is the minimum requirement for General Skilled Migration Visas. However, higher English levels like Proficient or Superior can earn you more points.
If you or your partner need to show Functional English, the threshold is now 24 (down from 30). So yes—if you’re using PTE scores for any of these visas, this update applies to you.
Why the Update?
The change comes after Pearson, the maker of the PTE test, released a new concordance report comparing PTE scores with other English language exams like IELTS and TOEFL. To keep everything aligned and fair, the Australian Government adjusted its scoring thresholds to reflect this new data.
This isn’t the first time something like this has happened. English test requirements evolve every few years to make sure scoring remains consistent and equitable across different tests.
Already Took the Test?
You’re probably wondering: Do I need to retake my test if I already passed it?
Good news—probably not. If you sat your PTE test before August 7, 2025, your scores are still accepted under the old thresholds, as long as they’re still valid (typically valid for two years from your test date).
So if you scored competent English on the PTE last month and you’re applying for a 485 visa, you’re safe. No need to book another exam.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re preparing for the PTE or planning to apply for a visa soon, here’s what we recommend:
✅ Know your target score – Double-check what English level your visa requires and aim for the updated benchmark.
✅ Give yourself enough prep time – A one-point difference might mean adjusting your study approach.
✅ Don’t delay your test booking – Give yourself a buffer in case you need a second try.
✅ Stay informed – Immigration policies shift regularly. Keeping up could save you stress—and money.
✅ Get expert advice – Don’t try to navigate these changes alone if you’re unsure.
From the Team at Pathway to Aus
We’ve seen how small policy changes—like this PTE update—can create a lot of confusion and stress for students and migrants. That’s why we believe in keeping everything under one roof: education and migration support, all in one place.
Whether you’re enrolling in a course, applying for a student visa, or trying to figure out if your PTE score still meets the new rules, our team at Pathway to Aus is here to walk you through the process.
We’ve helped thousands of people find the right path forward—whether it’s preparing for a new test, picking the right course, or lodging a visa that gets approved the first time.
Final Thoughts
Yes, the new PTE scores are slightly higher. No, it’s not a disaster. But it is a reminder that being well-prepared and well-informed can make or break your visa plans. So whether you’re starting your journey or adjusting course, take this opportunity to plan smart.
Need help? Chat with a migration or education advisor who actually understands what you’re going through—and can offer real guidance.
Your Australian dream is still within reach. Let’s make sure nothing as small as a single PTE point stands in the way.
