PTE exam for Australia Visa

Updated on 17 June, 2025

Mrinal Mandal

Mrinal Mandal

Study Abroad Expert

The PTE exam for Australia is a computer-based English test accepted by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) for student visas, skilled migration (PR), and partner visa applications. It’s also a requirement for nursing registration in Australia.

Over 3,500 global institutions, including all PTE-accepted universities in Australia, recognize the test. PTE delivers scores in just 48 hours - a fast alternative to IELTS. If you prefer a quick turnaround, or want flexible PTE exam dates in India for Australia, this exam is a top choice.

Explore programs and Universities in Australia:

Start with the basics:

PTE Exam Overview

Feature

Details

Accepted by DHA

Yes – for student visa (subclass 500), PR (subclass 189/190), partner visa

Approved Test Type

PTE Academic (center-based) only

PTE Exam Eligibility for Australia Visa

Open to all applicants aged 16+, with valid ID

Results Time

Within 48 hours

PTE Accepted Universities in Australia

100% – All public and private universities

PTE Exam Fee for Australia Visa 2025

₹15,900 – ₹17,000 (approx. AUD 290)

Planning to book your test?

Types of PTE Exams for Australia

If you're planning to move to Australia for study, work, or permanent residency, it’s important to choose the right version of the PTE exam for Australia

PTE Exam Types Accepted for Australia

PTE Exam Type

Accepted For

Not Accepted For

PTE Academic

Australia student visa, skilled migration, PR, universities

PTE Academic Online

Online university admissions (limited)

Not valid for PR or any Australia visa under DHA

PTE Home

Not valid for any Australian process

Rejected for both immigration and education purposes

PTE Academic vs General for Australia: Australia doesn’t accept “PTE General.” Only PTE Academic (center-based) is valid for all immigration and university purposes.

Know the structure & syllabus:

PTE Exam for Australian Permanent Residency (PR) 

The PTE exam for Australia PR uses PTE Academic (center-based) scores to assign immigration points. DHA accepts the test for subclasses 189, 190, 491, 186, 820 and several family or regional streams.

PTE Score Requirements for Australia PR

PR Factor

Key Detail

Visa subclasses

189 (Independent), 190 (State-Nominated), 491 (Regional), 186 (Employer), 820 (Partner)

PTE score required for Australia PR

50 (Functional English) — meets eligibility only

Points boost

65 overall = 10 points 

Test validity

3 years for PR lodgement

Tip:79+ PTE Academic score adds the maximum 20 points, giving skilled-migration applicants an edge over IELTS due to the rapid 48-hour score release.

Get prep-ready:

PTE Exam for Australia Study Visa 

Australian universities rely on the PTE exam for Australia to confirm language skills for the student visa (subclass 500). All public and private institutions list PTE Academic on their entry-requirements page.

PTE Score Requirements for Australia Student Visa

Study Level

Typical Overall Score Range

Notes

Undergraduate

50 – 64

Some programs set section minimums of 50+ in Reading & Writing

Postgraduate

65 – 79+

Competitive degrees (medicine, law) often ask for 73 – 79 overall

  • The minimum PTE score for a student visa Australia follows the offer letter, not a DHA rule, but most colleges align with these bands.
  • Universities accept only PTE Academic (center-based); the online version serves distance-learning courses yet remains ineligible for visa filing.
  • Book early if you need specific PTE exam dates in India for Australia—metro centers fill first during May–July intakes.

Budget & Results:

PTE Exam Format and Test Duration 

The PTE exam for Australia is a fully computer-based test designed to measure real-life English use. It covers all four skills and uses AI-based scoring to ensure consistency. Only PTE Academic (center-based) is accepted for visa and PR applications.

PTE Exam Format and Duration

PTE Section

Duration

Skills Covered

Speaking & Writing

54–67 minutes

Fluency, grammar, written communication

Reading

29–30 minutes

Comprehension, analysis

Listening

30–43 minutes

Audio processing, note-taking

Total Test Time

~2 hours

All four skills

  • The PTE test format for Australia immigration ensures you complete the entire exam in one sitting.
  • You must take the test in person at an authorized PTE center.
  • The scoring range is from 10 to 90, with scores above 65 considered strong for most PR and study routes.

Where to Take the PTE Exam in India and Australia 

You can book your PTE exam for Australia visa through the Pearson portal and choose from multiple test centers across India. Testing happens almost every day in metro cities and at least twice a week in tier-2 cities.

PTE Exam for Australia Locations

Location

Popular Test Cities

PTE Exam Dates in India for Australia

India

Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore

3–6 times per week

Australia

Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth

Regular weekly slots

  • Use a valid passport as your ID—no Aadhaar or PAN allowed.
  • Results are typically available within 48 hours, often faster than IELTS.
  • All bookings must go through the official Pearson PTE portal.

Early bookings are key during peak seasons (Feb–March and July–Sept) to get your preferred city and slot.

Study Abroad Preparation Course

What does the Course include:

  • 12 Weeks of Dedicated Coaching to Build a robust profile for Top 1% Universities
  • SOP & Personal Statements For Academic Writing
  • 25 hours of live online classes with mock tests for IELTS
  • Visa, University Application & Submission
  • Country-specific Support with Education loan Guidance
  • International Faculty Masterclass

PTE Exam Format and Test Duration 

The PTE exam for Australia checks all four core language skills through a timed, computer-based test. Results are based on automated scoring and typically arrive within 48 hours.

PTE Exam Format and Duration

Section

Time Limit

Skills Tested

Speaking & Writing

54 to 67 minutes

Fluency, sentence structure, grammar

Reading

29 to 30 minutes

Comprehension, analysis

Listening

30 to 43 minutes

Audio understanding, note-taking

Total Time

Around 2 hours

Covers all language skills

  • The test is taken in person at approved centers.
  • It runs in a single session without breaks.
  • Scores range from 10 to 90. For skilled migration, higher scores give more PR points.

PTE Validity and Result Use for Australia

PTE Academic scores are valid for two years and must be valid on the exact date you apply for your visa or receive an invitation to apply, depending on your visa stream.

  • For Australia PR visas like subclass 189, 190, and 491, your PTE score must be valid at the time of invitation.
  • For a student visa (subclass 500), it must be valid on the application date.
  • Pearson sends your PTE scores directly to the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and to any Australian university or college you nominate.

Don’t risk delays—track your score validity window if you're reusing results or applying across intakes.

How to Prepare for the PTE Exam

To meet the PTE score required for Australia PR or student visa, your prep must target both speed and accuracy—especially under time pressure.

Skip generic apps and random practice. Here’s what actually works:

PTE Preparation Resources and Tools

Prep Tool

Why Use It

Pearson official mock tests

Closest simulation of real PTE exam environment

AI-based speaking tools

Helps tune fluency and pronunciation to the scoring algorithm

Timed mock tests (full-length)

Builds focus and section transition speed

Key tip: If you're aiming for 79+ for PR points or a 65+ for a postgraduate course, daily practice isn’t optional—it’s the minimum.

Access free PTE prep tools on upGrad — practice tests, tips, and mock exercises.
Speak to an expert to plan your PTE Exam for Australia and shortlist visa-eligible courses in Australia.

FAQs About PTE Exam for Australia PR and Study

Which PTE exam is valid for Australia visa in 2025?

Only PTE Academic is accepted for all types of Australia visas, including study and PR. The PTE exam for Australia must be taken at an approved test center or through PTE Academic Online for eligible student visa categories.

What is the PTE score required for Australian PR in 2025?

For General Skilled Migration (subclass 189, 190), a PTE score of 65 or above in each section earns 10 points. A score of 79+ can give you 20 points. These scores directly affect your PTE score required for Australia PR points-based eligibility.

Can I use PTE Academic Online for Australia student visa?

Yes, PTE Academic Online is accepted for the Australia student visa (subclass 500). However, some universities may still prefer in-center testing, so check with the university first.

What is the minimum PTE score for subclass 500 visa?

The minimum PTE score for student visa Australia is 42 overall. Some institutions may require higher scores based on your course or degree level.

How long is the PTE score valid for Australia PR?

Your PTE score is valid for two years for immigration and student visa purposes. Ensure that your result is still valid at the time of your visa lodgment.

What is the cost of PTE Academic for Australia visa?

The PTE exam fee for Australia visa 2025 in India is approximately INR 15,900. Late booking and rescheduling may include extra charges.

Does Australia accept expired PTE scores?

No. Expired PTE scores are not accepted by the Department of Home Affairs. Your score must be valid at the time of visa application.

How to send PTE results to the Department of Home Affairs?

Log in to your PTE account, choose “Send Scores,” and select Australia’s Department of Home Affairs from the drop-down. This ensures that your scores are directly forwarded for visa processing.

How many days before visa deadline should I take PTE?

You should take the test at least 4–6 weeks before your visa deadline. This allows time for PTE exam dates in India for Australia, score delivery, and rescheduling if needed.

Can I retake PTE if I don’t get enough score for PR?

Yes. You can retake the PTE exam as many times as needed. There is no limit, but you must wait for your results before rebooking. High scorers often use best PTE prep books for Australia visa to improve.

What is a good PTE score for Australian universities?

PTE score of 58–65 is generally acceptable for most undergraduate and postgraduate programs. However, PTE accepted universities in Australia may set higher cutoffs for specific programs.

Is PTE accepted for subclass 189 and 190 visa?

Yes. Both subclass 189 and 190 under General Skilled Migration accept PTE Academic scores for English language proof. Ensure your test date and results are within the required timeframe.

Can I cancel or reschedule my PTE Academic test?

Yes. You can reschedule or cancel up to 14 days before the test. Refunds and date changes depend on your timing. Refer to the official PTE policy for details.

Which countries accept PTE Academic apart from Australia?

Besides Australia, PTE Academic is accepted in the UK, New Zealand, Canada (for study), and the USA. It’s widely recognized for study and immigration in English-speaking countries.

Is PTE easier than IELTS for Australian PR?

This depends on your strengths. Some test-takers find PTE easier than IELTS due to its computer-based format and automated scoring. Still, both are valid for Australian immigration if taken in the right format.

Important IELTS Exam Resources

IELTS Exam Overview

IELTS is required to be taken by international students and workers who wish to study or work in a country where English is the primary language of communication. Know the complete details./

IELTS Online Test

IELTS Exam Syllabus

With the right knowledge of the IELTS exam syllabus and pattern, cracking the popular English test won’t be difficult./

IELTS Syllabus

IELTS Exam Pattern

The IELTS exam pattern encompasses four major sections, i.e. listening, speaking, writing, and reading. /

IELTS Exam Pattern

Mrinal Mandal

Study Abroad Expert

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