The Points Test Explained
What Is the Points Test?
The Points Test is a scoring system used by the Department of Home Affairs to compare skilled visa applicants. It considers age, English, education, work experience, and more. Applicants must score at least 65 points, but invitations usually go to those with higher scores.
📊 Points Breakdown Table
| Factor | Points |
|---|---|
| Age (25–32) | 30 points |
| English (Superior) | 20 points |
| Skilled Work Experience (8+ years) | 15 points |
| Qualifications (Bachelor's/Master's) | 15 points |
| Australian Study Requirement | 5 points |
| State Nomination or Regional Study | +5 to +15 points |
👉 Use our Points Calculator Tool to estimate your score.
📅 Step-by-Step: How the Points Test Works
Why It Matters
Required for Subclass 189, Subclass 190, and Subclass 491 visas.
Determines your SkillSelect ranking.
Higher scores = faster invitations.
Overclaiming can trigger refusals under PIC 4020.
Risks & Common Errors
Overclaiming experience → refusal under PIC 4020.
Not meeting English thresholds.
Using the wrong ANZSCO code for your occupation.
Expired EOIs (valid for 2 years only).
Required Documents
Valid Passport
English Test Results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, CELPIP, LanguageCert, MET)
Skills Assessment Letter
Employment references & payslips
Academic certificates & transcripts
Why It Matters
Most invitations are issued to applicants with 85+ points.
Points decrease as you age – apply before turning 33 or 40.
Proficient or Superior English can add up to 20 points.
State or regional nomination adds valuable bonus points.
Related Visa Pathways
Overclaiming experience → refusal under PIC 4020.
Subclass 190 – State Nominated
Subclass 491 – Skilled Regional
Expression of Interest (EOI) Guide
Competent English Explainer
❓ Skill Point Test Frequesntly Ask Questions
👉 You need at least 65 points.
👉 Often 85–95+, especially for popular occupations like IT, health, or engineering.
👉 Yes – points reduce after 32, and drop significantly after 40.
👉 Yes, you can update with new test results or work experience.
👉 Yes – DHA requires documents for each claim.
Many applicants lose points because of overlooked details like partner skills or regional study. Let us double-check your score before you submit your EOI to avoid mistakes.
📞 Book a Free Consultation with a Migration Expert
Complete the free eligibility check and a MARA-registered agent will review your score and your options within 1 business day
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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.