Thinking about applying for a skilled visa to Australia? One of the first things you’ll need to understand is how the government decides who’s eligible.

The points test for skilled migration in Australia is one of the key steps in qualifying for skilled migration to Australia. It’s used to assess your age, English ability, work experience and qualifications to determine whether you meet the minimum score for a skilled visa. 

Understanding how the test works can help you organise your documents and submit a more informed Expression of Interest. This guide walks you through the basics so you know what to expect.

What Is The Points Test For Skilled Migration In Australia? A Quick Overview

The points test for skilled migration in Australia is a structured method the government uses to evaluate how well an applicant meets the requirements of the skilled visa program. Every applicant receives a score based on age, English proficiency, qualifications and work experience. The goal is to select individuals who are likely to contribute positively to Australia’s workforce over the long term.

The test ensures a fair opportunity for people from a variety of backgrounds. A higher score improves the likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply for a visa. Applicants can often increase their score through stronger English test results, additional work experience or by completing studies recognised under Australian standards. The system rewards verifiable skill, clear documentation and readiness to integrate. 

Plan Your Skilled Visa Path with Trusted Experts

Choosing the right guidance can prevent costly mistakes and confusion, and that’s what our team at Lewis & Bollard provides across Sydney. Our lawyers break down the points test in clear, simple terms so you understand exactly where you stand. We walk you through each requirement, highlight ways to improve your score and help create a plan aligned with your goals.

Clients across Australia rely on us for honest advice, practical strategies and support that safeguards their future. For expert migration assistance that feels personal and reliable, call us on +612 9283 0888 or visit our Contact Us page.

What’s Included in the Points Test?

The points test reflects qualities that support long-term success in Australia. It measures factors that influence employability, stability and your potential contribution to the local economy.

The core elements assessed under the points test for Skilled Migration in Australia include:

• Age
• English ability
• Skilled employment in Australia
• Skilled employment overseas
• Education level
• Specialist education qualifications
• Accredited study in Australia
• Regional study in Australia
• Community language credentials
• Partner skills
• State or territory nomination
• Employer nomination endorsement in select pathways

Each category contributes to your total score, and higher scores improve your likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply for a visa. Applicants often increase their score through stronger English results, additional work experience or studies recognised under Australian standards. The system rewards verified skills, clear documentation and preparation.

Steps to Calculate Points for Skilled Migration in Australia

Australia’s points test uses a structured process to provide a transparent and predictable outcome, which helps applicants understand where they stand. The main steps include:

Confirm Your Skilled Occupation

Your nominated occupation must appear on the relevant skilled occupation list, each with an approved assessing authority. This ensures the system targets genuine skill shortages. The list changes periodically, so always check the most current version before proceeding.

Complete a Skills Assessment

A skills assessment verifies that your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards. Authorities examine evidence, such as degrees, transcripts, work history and job duties. A positive result confirms your professional background aligns with requirements.

Finalise Your English Test

English proficiency is a major factor in your score. Higher results can add significant points and reflect confidence in communication and workplace readiness. Acceptable tests include IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT and others approved by the Government.

Count Your Age Points

Points are allocated based on your age at the time of receiving an invitation. Younger applicants often receive more points because they can contribute to the workforce over a longer period.

Calculate Your Skilled Work Experience

Work experience inside and outside Australia is assessed differently. Australian experience generally carries more weight as it demonstrates local adaptation and familiarity with workplace standards.

Add Qualification Points

Recognised qualifications, such as bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate degrees, add points to your total. Specialist degrees in fields like science or technology can further enhance your score.

Count Bonus Categories

Extra points are available for national accreditation in community languages, study in Australia (including regional areas), partner skills or a state or territory nomination. These bonus points can help applicants reach the competitive score required for an invitation.

Minimum Score to Apply for Skilled Migration in Australia

The minimum score to submit an Expression of Interest is 65 points. Reaching this threshold allows you to lodge an EOI but does not guarantee an invitation.

In practice, competitive rounds often prioritise applicants with higher scores, depending on the occupation and demand. Applicants with stronger profiles generally receive invitations sooner because they demonstrate their preparedness for the Australian workforce.

How to Strengthen Your Points Test Profile

A clear strategy can improve confidence and clarity. Many applicants increase their score and receive invitations more quickly by focusing on the following:

Improve Your English Score

English proficiency often produces the largest points increase. Even small improvements in your test results can meaningfully boost your total and strengthen employability.

Strengthen Your Work Experience

Longer skilled employment adds points. Accurate documentation, employer references and clearly described duties help secure full recognition. Gaining additional experience before lodging an EOI can raise your total score.

Upgrade Your Education

Higher qualifications add points and can align your skills with market needs. Completing a master’s degree or a specialist certification can provide both a points benefit and career advantage.

Leverage Partner Contribution

If your partner meets English and skills requirements, you may earn extra points. This is a straightforward way to improve your total, provided your partner has a valid skills assessment in an approved occupation.

Consider Study in Australia

Completing study in Australia, especially in regional areas, adds points while also helping you gain familiarity with local culture and employment practices.

Explore State or Territory Nomination

A state or territory nomination provides additional points and access to priority processing. Each state publishes a list of needed occupations, so matching your profile to their requirements can strengthen your application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding simple errors can prevent delays and lost points. Common pitfalls include:

• Miscalculating work experience due to unclear dates. Provide full records to ensure recognition.
• Incomplete English test results. Confirm you’ve chosen an approved test and met the required score.
• Claiming qualifications that do not match Australian standards. Verify recognition before applying.
• Delaying updates to your EOI when gaining new qualifications or experience.
• Missing partner skills documentation. Gather all evidence early.
• Overlooking state or territory nomination options. Explore every opportunity to increase your score.
• Poor occupation research. Ensure your nominated occupation reflects your actual duties.

Summing Up

The points test gives you a clear framework to see how age, English ability, work experience and qualifications affect skilled visa eligibility. Knowing what is assessed and how points are calculated helps you plan your application more effectively.

Reaching the minimum score allows you to lodge an Expression of Interest, while higher scores often increase your chances. Improvements in English, work experience, qualifications or state nominations can also make a difference.

With the right guidance, you can navigate the process with confidence. Our team at Lewis & Bollard is ready to help. Call +612 9283 0888 or visit our Contact Us page to get started.