The Australian points-based system is the foundation of skilled migration to Australia. Understanding how it works can significantly improve your chances of success.
How the Points System Works
You need a minimum of 65 points to be eligible to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for most skilled visas. However, competitive scores are typically 80-95 points or higher, depending on your occupation.
Points Categories
Age (Maximum 30 Points)
- 18-24 years: 25 points
- 25-32 years: 30 points (optimal age range)
- 33-39 years: 25 points
- 40-44 years: 15 points
- 45+ years: 0 points (not eligible)
English Language (Maximum 20 Points)
- Competent (IELTS 6.0 each): 0 points
- Proficient (IELTS 7.0 each): 10 points
- Superior (IELTS 8.0 each): 20 points
PTE and TOEFL equivalents are also accepted.
Overseas Work Experience (Maximum 15 Points)
- Less than 3 years: 0 points
- 3-4 years: 5 points
- 5-7 years: 10 points
- 8+ years: 15 points
Australian Work Experience (Maximum 20 Points)
- Less than 1 year: 0 points
- 1-2 years: 5 points
- 3-4 years: 10 points
- 5-7 years: 15 points
- 8+ years: 20 points
Educational Qualifications (Maximum 20 Points)
- Doctorate: 20 points
- Bachelor degree or higher: 15 points
- Diploma or trade qualification: 10 points
- Skills assessment qualification: 10 points
Additional Points Opportunities
- Australian study requirement: 5 points (2+ years study in Australia)
- Professional Year: 5 points (available for accounting, IT, engineering)
- Credentialled community language: 5 points
- Study in regional Australia: 5 points
- Partner skills: 5-10 points
- State/Territory nomination: 5 points (190) or 15 points (491)
- Specialist Education qualification: 10 points
Strategies to Maximize Points
- Improve English scores: Going from IELTS 7.0 to 8.0 adds 10 points
- Get state nomination: Adds 5-15 points and may have lower cut-offs
- Consider Professional Year: 5 points for eligible occupations
- Partner skills: If your partner also meets criteria, gain 5-10 points
- Gain work experience: Each additional year can add points
Common Mistakes
- Not realizing age affects points (plan early!)
- Underestimating English test importance
- Forgetting to claim all eligible points
- Not considering state nomination options
For a personalized points calculation and visa pathway recommendations, use our free assessment tool.