Australia PR Points for Education

Your educational qualifications can earn you up to 20 points on the Australia PR points test. Education is one of the core categories where your background can significantly boost your total score.

Calculate your total score including education points with our PR Points Calculator.

Education Points Table

Points are awarded based on the level of your highest qualification:

The key principle is that you claim points for your highest relevant qualification. You cannot combine points from multiple degrees.

Education Points Breakdown

PhD (20 Points)

A doctoral degree gives the maximum 20 points for education. This includes both Australian and recognised overseas PhDs. If you are considering further study to boost your score, a PhD could add significant value.

Bachelor or Higher (15 Points)

This category includes:

• Bachelor degrees
• Masters degrees
• Postgraduate diplomas

Note that a Master's degree gives the same 15 points as a Bachelor. The extra study does not add more points in this category, though it may help in other areas like work experience.

Diploma or Trade Qualification (10 Points)

This level includes:

• Technical and Further Education (TAFE) diplomas
• Trade certificates
• Vocational qualifications

For some occupations, a diploma is the standard qualification. Even if you have higher education, you might claim this level if it better matches your occupation requirements.

No Qualification (0 Points)

If you do not have post-secondary qualifications, you receive 0 points for education. However, you can still apply if you have other factors (work experience, English, age) that bring your score to 65+.

Overseas Qualifications

Your overseas degrees can count for education points. Here is how it works:

Recognition Process

Your qualifications are assessed as part of your skills assessment. The assessing authority determines whether your overseas degree is equivalent to an Australian qualification at the appropriate level.

Common Scenarios

• UK/US degrees: Usually recognised at equivalent levels
• Indian degrees: Often recognised, but may require additional verification
• Chinese degrees: Generally recognised from major universities
• Other countries: Assessed case by case

The key is that your assessing authority must accept your qualification as part of your positive skills assessment.

Specialist Education Qualification

There is a separate category called "Specialist Education Qualification" that awards 10 additional points. This applies to:

• Postgraduate research degrees (Masters or PhD) in STEM fields
• Specific fields including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics

This 10 points is in addition to your base education points. So a STEM PhD could give you 20 (education) + 10 (specialist) = 30 points just from qualifications.

Check the Department of Home Affairs website for the current list of eligible fields and qualifications.

Study in Australia Bonus

While Australian study does not add extra points in the education category, it offers other advantages:

Graduate Visa Pathway

Studying in Australia can lead to a temporary graduate visa (Subclass 485), which allows you to work and gain Australian experience.

State Nomination Preferences

Some states give priority to applicants who studied in that state. This can improve your nomination chances even without extra points.

Stronger Application

Australian qualifications are automatically recognised, and local study demonstrates your commitment to living in Australia.

Education Strategy Tips

Claim the Highest Level

Always claim points for your highest relevant qualification. If you have a PhD and a Bachelor, claim the PhD (20 points), not the Bachelor (15 points).

Consider Further Study

If you have a Bachelor and are sitting at 60–65 points, a Masters or PhD could push you over the threshold. However, weigh the time and cost against the benefit.

Check Specialist Options

If you studied in STEM, check whether your degree qualifies for the additional 10 Specialist Education points.

Document Your Qualifications

Have your transcripts, certificates, and any professional registration ready. You will need these for both skills assessment and visa application.

Common Education Mistakes

Claiming Points Without Assessment

You cannot claim education points just because you have a degree. Your skills assessing authority must recognise your qualification as part of your positive assessment.

Claiming Multiple Qualifications

You only get points for one qualification — your highest. Do not try to claim points for multiple degrees.

Ignoring Specialist Education

Many STEM graduates miss out on the additional 10 Specialist Education points. Check if your research degree qualifies.

Unrecognised Institutions

Degrees from non-accredited or low-quality institutions may not be recognised. Ensure your institution is reputable and recognised in your home country.

Calculate Your Education Points

Education is a core part of your PR points. Check your total to see where your qualifications place you.

Disclaimer

This article provides general information about education points for Australian skilled migration. Requirements change periodically. Always verify with the Department of Home Affairs and your relevant skills assessing authority.