New PTE Score Requirements: Starting 7 August 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has confirmed a new PTE Academic scoring scale will be used for visa and immigration applications.
The biggest changes affect Speaking and Writing scores, which will now have significantly higher minimum requirements.
Updated PTE Score Requirements (2025)
Superior English Band (previously 79+)
- Listening: 69
- Reading: 70
- Writing: 85
- Speaking: 88
Proficient English Band (previously 65+)
- Listening: 58
- Reading: 59
- Writing: 69
- Speaking: 76
Competent English Band (previously 50+)
- Listening: 47
- Reading: 48
- Writing: 51
- Speaking: 54
Vocational English Band (previously 36+)
- Listening: 33
- Reading: 36
- Writing: 29
- Speaking: 34
Updated PTE Score Requirements for Subclass 485 visa (Post-Study Work Visa)
For international students, the Subclass 485 visa will now require an overall PTE score of 55, with the following minimums:
- Listening: 40
- Reading: 42
- Writing: 41
- Speaking: 39
This is slightly lower than the previous overall requirement of 57, offering more flexibility for recent graduates.
What This Means for Students & Migrants
- Stricter Speaking & Writing standards mean you need to prepare early with focused practice.
- Subclass 485 adjustment creates opportunities for international students to stay and work in Australia.
- Applicants aiming for PR pathways (Proficient or Superior English) should pay extra attention to the higher benchmarks.
How Annalink Can Help
At Annalink, we support international students with:
- PTE Platform – A website powered by Annalink, which helps prepare for the PTE Academic exam and aims to easily achieve the desired score without stress.
Contact Annalink today for tailored advice on preparing for the new PTE requirements and securing your future in Australia.
