Australia PR Points System Explained Simply
If you are new to Australian skilled migration, the points system can feel overwhelming. There are 12 categories, specific rules, caps, and exceptions. This guide explains everything in plain English — no jargon, no confusion.
Want to know where you stand? Use our free PR Points Calculator to estimate your score in under 2 minutes — no sign-up required.
The Big Picture: How the System Works
Australia uses a points-based system to select skilled migrants. Think of it like a ranking system. The more points you have, the higher you rank, and the more likely you are to be invited to apply for a visa.
You earn points for things like your age, English ability, education, and work experience. You need at least 65 points to enter the system, but higher scores are needed to actually get invited.
There are three main visas that use this system:
- 189: Independent — no sponsorship required. Learn more
- 190: State nominated — adds 5 bonus points. Learn more
- 491: Regional — adds 15 bonus points. Learn more
The 12 Scoring Categories — Simplified
1. Age (Up to 30 points)
Your age matters. Being 25–32 gives you the maximum 30 points. Younger applicants (18–24) get 25, and older applicants get fewer. If you are 45 or older, you cannot apply.
2. English (Up to 20 points)
Better English means more points. Basic English gives 0 points, moderate gives 10, and strong gives 20. This is usually the easiest category to improve.
3. Overseas Work Experience (Up to 15 points)
Work done outside Australia in your field counts. More experience means more points, up to 15.
4. Australian Work Experience (Up to 20 points)
Work done inside Australia in your field also counts. You can earn up to 20 points here, but see the cap below.
Important cap: Categories 3 and 4 are combined. Your overseas and Australian work experience points together cannot exceed 20 total.
5. Education (Up to 20 points)
Higher qualifications mean more points. A PhD gives 20, a university degree gives 15, and a diploma or trade gives 10.
6. Specialist Education (Up to 10 points)
If you completed a research degree in science, technology, engineering, or maths (STEM) at an Australian university, you get up to 10 extra points.
7. Australian Study (5 points)
If you completed at least 2 years of study in Australia, you get 5 points.
8. Regional Study (5 points)
If you completed that 2 years of study while living in a regional area, you get an additional 5 points.
9. Professional Year (5 points)
A structured work training program for accounting, IT, or engineering graduates. Completing it adds 5 points.
10. Community Language (5 points)
If you are certified as a community language interpreter or translator (through NAATI), you get 5 points.
11. Partner Skills (Up to 10 points)
Your partner's English skills and qualifications can add points. Being single also counts for 10 points.
12. Nomination (5 or 15 points)
State nomination for a 190 visa adds 5 points. State or family nomination for a 491 visa adds 15 points.
With 12 categories and various caps, manual calculation gets complicated. Let our tool do the work.
Calculate Your PR Score Instantly →What Does NOT Count for Points
It is equally important to know what does not earn you points:
- Your salary or income level
- Property or assets in Australia
- Number of visits to Australia
- Volunteer work (unless it meets skilled employment criteria)
- Online courses or short courses (unless they lead to a recognised qualification)
Simple Examples
Strong Applicant (95 points)
Age 28 (30) + Superior English (20) + 5 years Australian work (15) + PhD (20) + Australian study (5) + professional year (5) = 95 points. Very competitive.
Average Applicant (75 points)
Age 30 (30) + Proficient English (10) + 3 years overseas work (5) + 2 years Australian work (5) + Bachelor's (15) + single (10) = 75 points. Competitive for many pathways.
Starting Out (60 points)
Age 24 (25) + Competent English (0) + 1 year overseas work (0) + Bachelor's (15) + Australian study (5) + single (10) + regional study (5) = 60 points. Below the 65 minimum — needs improvement.
How to Get Started
Step 1: Calculate Your Score
Use our PR Points Calculator to estimate your points across all 12 categories.
Step 2: Compare Visa Options
Check whether the 189, 190, or 491 visa suits your situation best.
Step 3: Improve Where You Can
Focus on the areas where you can gain points most easily. For most people, that means improving English.
Step 4: Submit Your EOI
Once you reach 65+ points, submit your Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and wait for an invitation.
Check Your Score Now
The points system does not have to be complicated. Our calculator handles the rules and caps automatically so you can focus on planning your next steps.
Ready to see your score? Check where you stand before planning your next move.
Check Your PR Points Now →Disclaimer
This article is a simplified explanation of the Australia PR points system for general understanding. It does not cover every rule or exception. Always verify with the Department of Home Affairs for official and current information.
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.