Immigrate to Australia? Calculate Your Points in 8 Easy Steps!

Understanding the Australian Immigration Scoring System

This article explains the Australian immigration scoring system for independent skilled migrants. It breaks down the point system and offers insights on how to potentially increase your score. Remember, this is based on personal experience and the information shared may not be completely correct due to the evolving nature of immigration policies. Consulting a professional immigration consultant or lawyer is highly recommended if you plan to immigrate.

The Importance of Professional Assessment

For independent skilled immigration, your professional background is crucial. The first step is applying for a professional assessment. This assessment verifies that your professional qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards, proving you possess skills in a specific field. Once this is completed, your immigration score becomes the primary factor. While professional level is arguably more important, focusing on increasing your score is a practical approach.

Calculating Your Immigration Score: Key Factors

You can find the official Australian immigration score list online. The video information column provides a link to the official Australian government website. The main factors contributing to your score are:

1. Age (Maximum 30 Points)

• The ideal age range for maximizing points is 25-33 years old.

• Applicants aged 18-25 are considered too young, while those aged 33-40 are seen as slightly older.

• Applying before the age of 38 is generally recommended.

• Applicants aged 40 and above receive significantly fewer points.

• The immigration process takes time, so allow for a buffer.

2. English Proficiency (Maximum 20 Points)

• Achieving a high score in an English language test is vital for increasing your immigration score, particularly for independent skilled migrants.

• IELTS 8.0 is the maximum score, earning 20 points. IELTS 7.0 earns 10 points, and IELTS 6.0 earns 0 points.

• IELTS 7.0 is considered the minimum, with IELTS 8.0 as the optimal goal.

• The PTE (Pearson Test of English) is an alternative to IELTS. PTE can be easier for some test-takers due to the writing section and potentially encountering repeated questions.

• PTE is considered equivalent to IELTS for scoring purposes.

3. Work Experience (Maximum 20 Points)

• Points are awarded for both Australian and overseas work experience. Work experience in both can be combined.

• Full points are awarded for eight years of Australian work experience.

• Strict criteria apply to calculating work experience:

  • Only work experience within the last 10 years is considered. Periods of unemployment, such as being a full-time parent, can negate prior experience.

  • Work experience is generally only counted after obtaining a university diploma. This can affect those who worked full-time while studying.

4. Education (Maximum 20 Points)

• A doctoral degree earns the maximum 20 points.

• Australian qualifications earn higher points. High-level education in Australia is worth 5-10 points more than education from other countries.

• This highlights the importance of local experience for immigration policies.

5. Bonus Points (Potentially up to 20 Points)

• PhD in a specific field (studied in Australia): Additional 10 points.

• High-level education in Australia (2+ years or a PhD): Additional 5 points.

• Professional Year (Australian professional course for accounting, engineering, or IT graduates): Additional 5 points.

• These bonus projects underscore the advantages of studying engineering or accounting in Australia.

6. Credentialed Community Language (CCL) Test (5 Points)

• Passing the CCL test, assessed by Naati, adds 5 points.

• The CCL test can be taken four times a year, even online.

• If your English is good, this test shouldn't be too difficult, so it's recommended to pursue this.

7. Study in a Regional Area (5 Points)

• Studying in a designated regional area of Australia can earn you 5 extra points.

8. Partner Skills (Maximum 10 Points)

• Being single automatically earns 10 points.

• If married, your partner can contribute points in two ways:

  • Basic: Achieving a minimum score in PTE or IELTS (4.6) earns 5 points.

  • Advanced: Passing the English test and a professional skills assessment, and being under 45, earns 10 points (equivalent to being single).

• If married, ensure your partner at least takes the English test.

Understanding Naked Scores and State Sponsorship

The sum of these factors constitutes your "naked score," or your base score.

• For the Subclass 189 visa, your naked score determines your eligibility.

• The Subclass 190 visa provides an additional 5 points through state government nomination.

• The Subclass 491 visa offers an additional 15 points for nomination in regional areas.

• This makes the 190 and 491 visas generally easier to obtain than the 189.

Minimum Scores and Application Success

The Australian government requires a minimum score of 65 points to be eligible to apply. However, in practice, a score significantly higher than 65 is often needed for a successful application, especially for competitive occupations. A consultant can assess the required score for your specific occupation. Aim to surpass the base scores to improve your chances.

Final Thoughts

Immigration policies can change, causing uncertainty. Focus your energy on what you can control, such as maximizing your score. Regardless of the outcome, knowing you gave it your best effort will bring peace of mind.