Professional Year Explainer

⚡ At a Glance: Professional Year

Length: 44 weeks (approx. 12 months).

Who can apply: International graduates in Accounting, ICT, or Engineering.

Benefits: Gain 5 migration points under the Points Test., Practical work experience in Australia., Pathway to stronger employability and PR.

Requirement: Must be completed with a DHA-approved provider.

💡 Overview

The Professional Year (PY) Program is a structured training program that helps international graduates gain practical workplace skills in Australia.

For Skilled Migration applicants, completing a Professional Year can add 5 valuable points to your migration application — often the difference between receiving an invitation and missing out.

📜 What Is a Professional Year?

The Professional Year (PY) Program is designed fora structured training program that helps international graduates gain practical workplace skills in Australia. It is designed to transitionassist graduates in transitioning from study to the Australian workplace by combining.

It combines classroom training and with an internship placement, helping. For Skilled Migration applicants, completing a Professional Year can add 5 valuable points to your migration

application — often the difference between receiving an invitation and missing out. This program helps participants meet industry expectations while boosting their Skilled Migration eligibility.

🌟 Why It Matters

The Professional Year can:

Improve employability with Australian work experience.

Add 5 Skilled Migration points under the Points Test.

Support eligibility for visas like Subclass 189, Subclass 190, and Subclass 491.

📏 Step-by-Step: Completing a Professional Year

Check Eligibility

ensure you have a degree in Accounting, ICT, or Engineering.

Choose an Approved Provider

only DHA-recognised programs qualify.

Enroll in the Program

44-week course including internship.

Complete Internship Placement

gain real-world Australian work experience.

Obtain Certificate

receive completion certificate.

Claim 5 Points

add to your Expression of Interest (EOI).

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Enrolling with a provider that is not DHA-approved.

Assuming completion will guarantee PR (it only provides 5 points).

Starting the program without checking Skilled Migration eligibility.

Not finishing the internship component.two

Always confirm provider approval and link the program to your migration strategy.

Required Documents

Academic transcripts and qualifications.

Current visa grant notice (e.g., Subclass 485 or Student Visa).

Proof of English proficiency (if required by provider).

Identification documents (passport, driver’s licence, etc.).

🔗 Related Pages

Points Test Explainer

ANZSCO Explainer

English Test Explainer

Skills Assessment Explainer

❓Professional Year Frequently Ask Questions

How many migration points does a Professional Year provide?

👉 5 points under the Skilled Migration Points Test.

Which fields are eligible?

A: To be eligible, you must have completed an Australian degree in an occupation that is on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or CSOL. You must also meet the English language proficiency requirement and be willing to complete the program, including work experience with an Australian employer.

How long is the program?

👉 Approximately 44 weeks (around 12 months).

Do I need a visa to start the program?

Yes. You must hold a visa that allows study and internship participation (commonly Subclass 485).

Can I complete more than one Professional Year?

👉 Yes, but you can only claim the migration points once.

📞 Book a Free Consultation with a Migration Expert

Speak directly with a MARA-registered migration agent and have your Skilled Visa strategy explained step-by-step — at no cost.

Why Trust Visa Advisor?

Choosing the right migration partner can make all the difference.

Here’s why Visa Advisor is the trusted choice

Expert Guidance

MARA-registered agents with years of experience simplify your migration journey.

Transparent Pricing

Clear, upfront costs with no hidden fees—just honest advice.

Global Support

Flexible online and in-person consultations, wherever you are.

Smart Tools

Advanced visa finders and calculators to make decisions easier.

Proven Results

Trusted by clients for reliable, personalized migration support.

Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.