What is the minimum points score needed?

65 points is the minimum to submit an EOI. However, receiving an invitation depends on your occupation, the number of places available, and competition from other applicants. Most occupations currently require 80–95+ points.

How are points calculated for work experience?

Points are awarded separately for Australian and overseas experience in your nominated (or closely related) occupation. 1–2 years overseas = 5 points, 3–4 years = 10 points, 5–7 years = 15 points, 8+ years = 20 points. Australian experience: 1–2 years = 5 points, 3–4 years = 10 points, 5–7 years = 15 points, 8+ years = 20 points.

Can I claim points for a qualification obtained overseas?

Yes, but your qualification must be assessed as equivalent to an Australian qualification by the relevant assessing authority for your occupation. The assessment determines the AQF level for points purposes.

What English tests are accepted?

DHA accepts IELTS (Academic or General), PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1 Advanced, and OET. Each test maps to Competent (10 pts), Proficient (20 pts), or Superior (20 pts) levels with specific score thresholds.

How long is my points test result valid?

Your EOI is valid for 2 years from submission. English test results must be less than 3 years old at the time of invitation. Skills assessments have varying validity periods depending on the assessing authority.

Skilled Migration Points Calculator

Estimate your points for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas.

Updated DailyGovernment Data SourcesFree to Use

Step 1: Personal

Age

Partner Skills

Nomination / Sponsorship

How it works

Answer each category

Work through 8 steps covering age, English, qualifications, experience, and bonus factors. Select the option that best matches your situation.

Review your total

Your running points total updates in the sidebar. Compare it against the minimum 65-point threshold and recent invitation round cutoffs.

Get AI optimisation tips

Use the AI optimiser to identify the fastest ways to increase your score — such as improving English, gaining Australian experience, or targeting specific states.

Key things to know

You need a minimum of 65 points to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), but most occupations require 80–95+ points to receive an invitation.
Age points peak at 25–32 years (30 points) and decrease after 33. No points are awarded for applicants aged 45 or over.
Superior English (PTE 79+ / IELTS 8+) gives 20 points — often the single biggest score improvement available.
Australian study requirement (2 years full-time) gives 5 points plus access to the post-study work visa and potential STEM bonus.
Partner skills (nominated occupation + Competent English) add 10 points. A single applicant or partner who is an Australian citizen/PR adds 10 points.
State nomination (190) adds 5 points; regional nomination (491) adds 15 points — these can be decisive for borderline scores.

Frequently asked questions

Next steps

PR Predictor

See predicted cutoff points for your occupation and state

State Ranker

Find the best state for nomination based on your profile

Skills Assessment Guide

Find the right assessing authority for your occupation

Visa Costs

Estimate total application costs including fees and assessments

How it works

Answer each category

Work through 8 steps covering age, English, qualifications, experience, and bonus factors. Select the option that best matches your situation.

Review your total

Your running points total updates in the sidebar. Compare it against the minimum 65-point threshold and recent invitation round cutoffs.

Get AI optimisation tips

Use the AI optimiser to identify the fastest ways to increase your score — such as improving English, gaining Australian experience, or targeting specific states.