How the skilled migration points test works

Short summary

The points test is used for Australia's points-tested skilled visas: the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190), and the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491). You score points for things like your age, English level, work experience, and qualifications. You need at least 65 points to be eligible, but reaching 65 does not guarantee an invitation. In practice, competitive scores are usually much higher.

How the process works

You submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, the government's online system. Your EOI records your claimed points. Candidates sit in a pool and are ranked by their score. The Department of Home Affairs invites higher-ranked candidates to apply. A higher score improves your chances of receiving an invitation.

The minimum score, and the real score

The minimum to be eligible is 65 points. This is a floor, not a target. Because skilled migration is competitive, invitations in recent years have often gone to candidates scoring well above 65, and for many occupations the average at invitation has been 85 points or higher. Treat 65 as the entry point and aim higher where you can.

How points are awarded

The point values below reflect the Department of Home Affairs points table as of July 2026. Numbers can change, so always check the official points table for your visa before relying on them.

Age (at the time of invitation):

• 18 to 24 years: 25 points
• 25 to 32 years: 30 points
• 33 to 39 years: 25 points
• 40 to 44 years: 15 points
• 45 years and over: 0 points

English language ability:

• Competent (for example IELTS 6 in each band, or equivalent): 0 points
• Proficient (for example IELTS 7 in each band, or equivalent): 10 points
• Superior (for example IELTS 8 in each band, or equivalent): 20 points

Skilled work experience is scored in two separate parts, experience outside Australia and experience in Australia, each with its own bands based on how many years you have in the last 10 years.

Qualifications, such as a recognised diploma, bachelor degree, or doctorate, also earn points, with higher qualifications generally worth more.

Extra points you may be able to claim

• State or territory nomination for a subclass 190 visa adds 5 points.
• State, territory, or eligible family nomination for a subclass 491 regional visa adds 15 points.
• Meeting the Australian study requirement, studying in a designated regional area, completing a Professional Year, holding a NAATI community language credential, or holding a specialist (research STEM) qualification can each add points.
• Partner factors can add points, depending on whether your partner has skills and English, or whether you are single or have an Australian citizen or permanent resident partner.

Why nomination matters

A 491 regional nomination adds 15 points, which can move a borderline score into a competitive range. This is why many applicants who cannot compete for a 189 invitation look at the 190 or 491 pathways, which require state, territory, or family nomination.

What to do next

A points estimate is a starting point, not a guarantee. Your occupation, your skills assessment, and the current invitation rounds all affect your real prospects. You can try the VisaMatch points calculator for an indicative score, then search for a verified skilled migration agent or immigration lawyer to confirm your points and plan your application.