
The score you need, for a visa or a university
The IELTS or PTE score a visa or a university asks for, skill by skill, and how the tests compare.
What visas and universities ask for
- 1
Australian visas
For Australian PR on a 189, 190 or 491 visa, you need at least Competent English when you are invited: PTE Academic 47 in listening, 48 in reading, 51 in writing and 54 in speaking, or IELTS 6 in each skill. Proficient English (PTE 58, 59, 69, 76 or IELTS 7) adds 10 points and Superior English (PTE 69, 70, 85, 88 or IELTS 8) adds 20 (Department of Home Affairs).
- 2
PTE Core scores for Canada
Canada reads your PTE Core result as a CLB level for each skill. Federal Skilled Worker needs CLB 7 in all four: listening 60, reading 60, speaking 68 and writing 69.
- 3
PTE vs IELTS
Neither test is easier for everyone. Both work for Australian visas and universities, so choose the format that suits you.
- 4
PTE Core vs PTE Academic
Take PTE Core for moving to Canada, such as permanent residence or citizenship. Take PTE Academic for university study, or for a visa to Australia or New Zealand.
Tools
- English score checker
Every Australian visa, registration and skills assessment your PTE or IELTS scores meet.
- English scores for the 485 visa
PTE 55 overall or IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum in each skill.
- English scores for the 482 visa
PTE 33, 36, 29 and 24, or IELTS 5 in each skill.
- English scores for the 186 visa
Competent English: PTE 47, 48, 51 and 54, or IELTS 6 in each skill.
- AHPRA English requirements for nurses
PTE 63 overall with 76 in speaking, or IELTS Academic 7 overall.
- English scores for skills assessments
Engineers Australia, CPA Australia, CA ANZ, IPA, AITSL, ACS and Anmac.
- Victorian Points Test calculator
Your points for Victoria's 190 and 491 nomination.
- University entry scores
The IELTS and PTE minimum at each Australian university.
- IELTS to PTE score converter
The conversion table, and the visa level each score meets.
Get your first score free
