Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international students seeking high-quality education and permanent residency opportunities. One of the biggest advantages of studying in Australia is the pathway it opens toward obtaining Permanent Residency (PR). But to successfully apply for PR, understanding the PR Points in Australia for international students is absolutely crucial.
This comprehensive guide will explain how international students can accumulate PR points, strategies to maximize those points, and important tips to boost your chances of securing PR in Australia.
Australia operates a points-based immigration system under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. This system evaluates applicants based on a variety of factors such as age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and more. The higher your points, the greater your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for a PR visa.
Currently, the minimum points required to lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) is 65 points. However, higher scores are typically needed to receive an invitation due to high competition.
International students in Australia commonly apply for PR through the following visa subclasses:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
Employer Sponsored Visas (Subclass 186, 482, 494)
Among these, the GSM stream (189, 190, and 491) relies directly on the points system.
Let’s break down the various components of the PR points system and how international students can maximize them:
Age is a major factor. International students usually fall into the most favorable age category:
| Age Group | Points |
|---|---|
| 18-24 | 25 |
| 25-32 | 30 |
| 33-39 | 25 |
| 40-44 | 15 |
| 45-49 | 0 |
Tip: Apply as early as possible while you’re still in the 25-32 age bracket for maximum points.
English proficiency is another high-value area for PR points.
| Proficiency Level | IELTS / PTE Score | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Competent English | IELTS 6 / PTE 50 | 0 |
| Proficient English | IELTS 7 / PTE 65 | 10 |
| Superior English | IELTS 8 / PTE 79 | 20 |
Tip: Investing in English test preparation can yield significant point gains.
Education is often the strongest point contributor for international students:
| Qualification | Points |
|---|---|
| Doctorate (Australia or recognized overseas) | 20 |
| Bachelor’s or Master’s degree | 15 |
| Australian trade qualification or diploma | 10 |
Tip: Completing higher-level courses in Australia boosts your points.
International students who complete at least 2 academic years of study in Australia receive additional points.
Tip: Choose CRICOS-registered courses that meet this requirement.
Studying at campuses located in regional areas can provide extra points.
Tip: Consider enrolling in universities located in regional cities such as Adelaide, Gold Coast, or Hobart.
Gaining work experience during and after your studies is another way to accumulate PR points.
| Type | Experience | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Overseas | 3-8+ years | 5-15 |
| Australian | 1-8+ years | 5-20 |
Tip: Use Post Study Work Visas (Subclass 485) to gain Australian work experience.
Completing a Professional Year Program in accounting, IT, or engineering after graduation gives you extra points.
Tip: This is a great investment for international students as it improves employability and adds points.
If you are proficient in a NAATI-recognized community language, you can claim additional points.
Tip: Bilingual students should consider this option for extra points.
You may earn additional points if your partner meets certain eligibility requirements:
Skilled occupation
Positive skills assessment
Competent English
Each state in Australia has different occupation lists and nomination requirements, offering valuable extra points.
| Visa Type | Nomination Points |
|---|---|
| Subclass 190 | 5 |
| Subclass 491 | 15 |
Tip: Stay informed about the latest state nomination requirements for your occupation.
| Factor | Points |
|---|---|
| Age (25) | 30 |
| Superior English | 20 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 15 |
| Australian Study Requirement | 5 |
| Regional Study | 5 |
| Professional Year | 5 |
| Australian Work Experience (2 years) | 10 |
| State Nomination (Subclass 190) | 5 |
| Total | 95 |
With 95 points, this applicant would stand a strong chance of receiving an invitation.
Start planning your PR pathway before selecting your course.
Choose occupations that are in high demand and listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation Lists (SOL, STSOL, ROL).
Focus on scoring Superior English.
Pursue regional study opportunities.
Gain relevant work experience in Australia.
Complete a Professional Year if eligible.
Explore state nomination and regional sponsorship programs.
Certain courses have higher chances of leading to PR because they match Australia’s skill shortages:
Nursing
Information Technology
Engineering
Teaching and Early Childhood Education
Social Work
Accounting
Trade Occupations (Plumbing, Carpentry, Electrical)
Tip: Always verify that your chosen course aligns with an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
The lists include:
Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
Regional Occupation List (ROL)
Your course and occupation must be on these lists to qualify for skilled migration visas.
Here’s a step-by-step overview:
Complete your Australian qualification.
Obtain a positive skills assessment.
Sit for an approved English test.
Gather work experience and extra points where possible.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.
Receive an invitation.
Lodge your PR visa application.
Complete health and character checks.
Await the outcome.
Choosing courses not aligned with the skilled occupation lists.
Ignoring the importance of English test scores.
Missing deadlines for EOI or visa applications.
Providing incomplete or incorrect documentation.
Underestimating the importance of regional study incentives.
Processing times vary, but typically:
Subclass 189: 6–12 months
Subclass 190: 6–12 months
Subclass 491: 9–15 months
Delays can occur if further information or checks are required.
What is the minimum PR points for international students in Australia?
The minimum is 65 points, but in practice, higher points (80–90+) are often needed due to competition.
Do international students get extra points for studying in Australia?
Yes, completing at least 2 years of study in Australia gives you 5 points. Regional study can add another 5 points.
Can work experience gained on a student visa count toward PR points?
Only work experience gained after your study (Post Study Work Visa) typically counts, unless it’s highly relevant and meets strict criteria.
Is a Professional Year Program worth it for international students?
Yes, it not only provides 5 extra points but also valuable local work experience and networking opportunities.
Can international students apply directly for PR after study?
Yes, if you meet the points and occupation requirements, you can apply directly or after gaining additional work experience.
What occupations are in high demand for PR?
Healthcare, IT, engineering, teaching, trades, and accounting are consistently in demand.
Navigating PR points in Australia for international students may seem complex, but careful planning, informed course selection, and a clear understanding of the points system can significantly improve your chances of success. By maximizing your English proficiency, gaining relevant work experience, and leveraging state or regional nominations, your dream of permanent residency in Australia is achievable.
Stay informed, stay prepared, and take proactive steps today — your Australian PR journey starts with the right knowledge.
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