Do you dream of life in Australia but find yourself drowning in the muddy maze that is skilled migration? You’re not alone. The Australia Immigration points test is the key to permanent residency for skilled professionals. As a reliable skilled migration agent, our duty is to make this puzzle clear and understandable. Our job as a trusted skilled migration agent is to turn this conundrum into a clear, achievable pathway.

A high quality application with a strong points score gives you the best chance of success. Below is a breakdown of the points test and how we can help you maximise your score.

What is the Skilled Migration Points Test?

The points test is the fundamental mechanism used by the Department of Home Affairs to rank and select candidates for key skilled visas, including:

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

While a minimum pass mark of 65 points is the requirement, such a score is usually not sufficient to be invited to apply because demand is high and competition is stiff. An invitation is normally made to candidates who score 80 points or more in the most in demand professions.

This is where a specialist visa consultant comes in, assisting you to score and claim every available point. An Australian registered migration agent like IME is your go to firm for the best visa assistance.

How to Maximise Your Points: A Strategic Breakdown

The points test awards points based on various factors. Our role is to help you assess your current score and identify strategies to boost it.

1. Age (Maximum 30 Points)

This is the most linear category, with points awarded on the basis of your age upon invitation to apply. The sweet spot is between ages 25 and 32, and this will award you the highest possible 30 points.

2. English Language Proficiency (Max 20 Points)

Your English test result is a strong asset for earning points. The margin between a “Proficient” and “Superior” score can be worth an additional 10 points in your application. Our counsel is straightforward: aim for the highest score possible.

Competent English: 0 points (IELTS 6.0 or PTE 50+)
Proficient English: 10 points (IELTS 7.0 or PTE 65+)
Superior English: 20 points (IELTS 8.0 or PTE 79+)

3. Skilled Employment Experience (Maximum 20 Points)

Points are awarded for both your overseas and Australian work experience in a skilled occupation. Having recent Australian work experience gives you a significant advantage.

1 to 2 years of Australian experience: 5 points
3 to 4 years of Australian experience: 10 points
5 to 7 years of Australian experience: 15 points
8+ years of Australian experience: 20 points

4. Educational Qualifications (Maximum 20 Points)

Your highest qualification is a key points earner.

PhD: 20 points
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree: 15 points
Australian Diploma or Trade Qualification: 10 points

5. Specialist Educational Qualification (Up to 10 Points)

If your qualification is a master’s by research or a PhD in a STEM area (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics), you might be considered for a further 10 points.

6. Partner Skills (Maximum 10 Points)

Your partner can be a significant asset to your application.

10 points: Your partner is under 45, has a positive skills assessment for a skilled occupation, and has at least competent English.
5 points: Your partner has at least competent English.

7. Other Ways to Boost Your Score

Professional Year Program: A recognised professional year program in Australia can contribute an additional 5 points.
NAATI Credentialed Community Language: Passing a NAATI exam for a community language can add 5 points.
State Nomination: If you are nominated by a state or territory for the Subclass 190 visa, you get 5 points. For the Subclass 491 visa, you get 15 points.

How a Skilled Migration Agent Helps You Become a Permanent Resident via Agent

We understand that it’s difficult to calculate points and sort through the intricate requirements. That is why it’s not only a luxury but also an essential strategic benefit to engage the services of a professional. Our registered migration agents and immigration agents offer full guidance to ensure that you become a permanent resident. We don’t simply complete forms; we craft a strategic plan for your success.

Our services include:

A personalised points assessment to identify all potential points.
Specialist guidance on the most appropriate visa pathway for your circumstances.
Support with skills assessments and paperwork.
Guidance on state nomination applications and requirements.
A fully prepared, meticulously reviewed visa application, giving you the best chance of a positive outcome.

For more Sydney immigration updates, read this informative article.

FAQs about the Points Test

Is 65 points sufficient? Although 65 is the base level, the majority of applicants require a greater number in order to receive an invitation.
Can I earn points for overseas and Australian work experience? Yes, although the total for combined can be no more than 20 points.
How long are my points test results valid? Your Expression of Interest (EOI) and the points claimed are valid for two years.

Let’s Turn Your Points into a Reality

The points test is your key to a new life in Australia. Don’t be held back by doubt. Your focused visa consultant, we will give you the clarity, experience, and support you require to enhance your score and pursue your permanent residency.

Get in touch with IME Advisors today for an overall evaluation and begin to make your Australian dream a reality.