Quick answer: for the Australian points test you need at least Competent English (IELTS 6 in each skill), which gives 0 points. Proficient English (7 in each skill) gives 10 points, and Superior English (8 in each skill) gives 20 points.
IELTS scores for each English level
Home Affairs sets English levels by the score you get in each of the four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training are accepted, and the scores are the same for both.
| English level | IELTS score needed | Points in the points test |
|---|---|---|
| Competent | at least 6 in each skill | 0 |
| Proficient | at least 7 in each skill | 10 |
| Superior | at least 8 in each skill | 20 |
The IELTS scores for these levels did not change when Home Affairs updated its English test rules on 7 August 2025. Some other tests (such as PTE) did change.
Your lowest skill decides your points
Points are based on your lowest skill, not your overall band. For example:
- Listening 8.5, Reading 8, Speaking 8, Writing 7.5 = Proficient (10 points), not Superior. One skill below 8 is enough to miss 20 points.
- Listening 7.5, Reading 7, Speaking 7.5, Writing 6.5 = Competent (0 points), even though the overall band is 7.0.
For many test takers Writing is the lowest skill, so improving Writing is often the fastest way to gain points. Use the score calculator to check where you stand.
Other rules to know
- Time limit: for tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, Home Affairs says you need to have achieved the score in the 3 years before your visa application, depending on the visa. Results from tests taken on or before 6 August 2025 can be used until 6 August 2028, depending on the visa.
- IELTS Online is not accepted. Fully online, remote-proctored IELTS tests are not accepted. Take IELTS on paper or on computer at a test centre.
- One Skill Retake: IELTS results that include a One Skill Retake are accepted for eligible visas. Check your visa page to confirm.
How to move from 6 to 7, or 7 to 8
- Find your weakest skill. A mock test shows which skill is pulling your points down.
- Target Writing Task 2. It counts for about two-thirds of your Writing band. Answer every part of the question, give a clear position, and support each main idea fully.
- Get marked feedback often. Write regularly and get each essay checked against the four criteria, so you know exactly what to fix.
- Practise Listening and Reading under time. Band 7 needs about 30 out of 40 correct, and band 8 needs about 35.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS score do I need for Australian PR?
For the skilled points test you need at least Competent English, which is IELTS 6 in each of the four skills. IELTS 7 in each skill (Proficient) gives 10 points and IELTS 8 in each skill (Superior) gives 20 points.
Is IELTS General Training accepted for Australian PR?
Yes. Home Affairs accepts both IELTS General Training and IELTS Academic, with the same scores for each level.
Does my overall band matter for PR points?
Points are based on reaching the score in each of the four skills, so your lowest skill decides your level. An overall 7.0 with Writing 6.5 is Competent English, not Proficient.
Is IELTS Online accepted for Australian visas?
No. Home Affairs says fully online or remote-proctored IELTS Online tests are not accepted. Take the test on paper or on computer at a test centre.
How long is my IELTS result valid for Australian PR?
For tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, Home Affairs says the score must be achieved in the 3 years before your visa application, depending on the visa. Check the page for your visa.