Australia PR Points for Regional Study
Studying in a regional area of Australia can give you 5 additional PR points on top of the standard Australian study points. For the right applicant, this means 10 total points just from choosing the right location for your education.
Calculate how regional study affects your score with our PR Points Calculator.
Regional Study Points Overview
| Study Location | Points Available |
|---|---|
| Sydney / Melbourne / Brisbane / Gold Coast | Australian study only (5) |
| Regional Australia | Australian (5) + Regional (5) = 10 |
Choosing regional study can double your study-related points.
Requirements for Regional Study Points
1. Regional Location
Your institution must be located in a designated regional area. Regional Australia currently includes:
- Perth (Western Australia)
- Adelaide (South Australia)
- Hobart (Tasmania)
- Canberra (Australian Capital Territory)
- Darwin (Northern Territory)
- Regional centres in NSW, VIC, and QLD (outside major cities)
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast do NOT count as regional for study points.
2. Minimum Duration
You must complete at least 2 academic years (92 weeks) of study at a regional institution. The same duration requirement applies as for standard Australian study points.
3. Valid Qualification
You must complete a qualification that is eligible for points: diploma, trade qualification, Bachelor, Masters, or PhD.
4. Student Visa
You must have held a valid Subclass 500 student visa during your regional study.
See how regional study doubles your study points.
Calculate Your PR Points →Why Study Regionally?
1. Double the Points
10 points from study (5 Australian + 5 Regional) is a significant boost. For many applicants, this alone justifies the regional choice.
2. State Nomination Priority
Many states give priority to regional graduates. Examples:
- Tasmania: Specific pathways for Tasmanian graduates
- South Australia: Graduate streams with lower requirements
- Northern Territory: Strong preference for local graduates
3. Lower Cost of Living
Regional areas typically have lower rent and living costs than Sydney or Melbourne. Your study budget stretches further.
4. Post-Study Work Opportunities
Regional areas often have skill shortages. Graduates may find it easier to secure skilled employment and work towards PR.
Top Regional Study Destinations
Adelaide, South Australia
- High-quality universities (University of Adelaide, Flinders, UniSA)
- Affordable living compared to eastern capitals
- Strong state nomination pathways for graduates
- Growing tech and healthcare sectors
Perth, Western Australia
- World-class universities (UWA, Curtin, Murdoch)
- Strong mining and resources industry
- Sunny climate and outdoor lifestyle
- Good job opportunities in engineering and trades
Hobart, Tasmania
- University of Tasmania with strong graduate pathways
- Unique lifestyle and natural environment
- Priority processing for Tasmanian graduates
- Lower competition for state nomination
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
- Australian National University (top-ranked)
- Strong public sector employment
- Defined pathways for ACT graduates
- High quality of life
Regional Study to PR Pathway
- Study: Complete 2+ years at a regional institution
- Graduate: Claim 10 points (5 Australian + 5 Regional)
- Work Visa: Apply for Subclass 485 graduate visa
- Work: Gain Australian experience (more points)
- Nomination: Apply for state nomination (5–15 bonus points)
- PR: Receive invitation and apply for 189/190/491
Regional study can be the foundation of a strong PR strategy.
Things to Consider
Job Market
Research job opportunities in your field before choosing a regional location. Some regions have strong demand in certain industries but limited opportunities in others.
Lifestyle Adjustment
Regional living is different from major cities. Consider whether the lifestyle suits you and your family.
Course Availability
Not all courses are available regionally. Ensure your desired program is offered at your preferred regional institution.
Post-Study Mobility
Remember that regional study points are retrospective. Once you have them, you can move anywhere in Australia for work.
Calculate Regional Study Benefits
If you are considering studying in Australia, regional study could give you a significant points advantage.
See how regional study boosts your PR score.
Check Your PR Points Now →Disclaimer
This article provides general information about regional study points. Regional definitions and requirements change. Verify with the Department of Home Affairs.
Important Notice: The content on this page is for general information only. Australian visa policies and requirements are subject to change at any time. Always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most current and accurate information.