For many Australian skilled visa pathways, the PTE score you need depends on whether you need Competent, Proficient or Superior English. Competent English is often the minimum level, while Proficient and Superior English may give extra points in the skilled migration points test. Always confirm the current requirement for your exact visa subclass on Home Affairs before booking your test.
Start with the visa requirement, not the test score
The safest way to plan your PTE target is to begin with the visa or skills pathway. Some students only need the minimum English level. Others are chasing extra points, professional registration or a stronger Expression of Interest.
This is why two students can both be preparing for migration but need different PTE scores. One may need Competent English, while another may need Proficient or Superior English to improve their points position.
The three levels most skilled visa students ask about
Competent English is commonly treated as the baseline for many skilled visa pathways. Proficient English and Superior English are higher levels and may be used for extra points in the points-tested skilled migration system.
Home Affairs changed accepted English test score settings from 7 August 2025. If you learned the old PTE 50, 65 and 79 targets from older videos or forums, check the current Home Affairs page before relying on those numbers.
What should you aim for?
If you are unsure, do not aim for the lowest possible score. A safer study target is usually one level above the minimum you think you need, especially if your visa outcome depends on points.
For a serious skilled visa pathway, book a consultation with a registered migration agent for visa advice and use your English teacher for the score plan, practice strategy and test preparation.
Important note
This page is general English test information for students. Visa rules, score requirements and test acceptance can change. Always check the official source for your visa subclass, and speak to a registered migration agent if you need migration advice.