The Australian Skilled Migration Points Test is a critical part of the visa application process for those seeking to live and work in Australia permanently. This points-based system assesses your eligibility for skilled visas by awarding points for factors such as age, education, work experience, and English language proficiency. At VisaTasker Pty Ltd, we guide you through the points test, helping you understand how to maximize your score and improve your chances of a successful visa application.
What is the Skilled Migration Points Test?
The Skilled Migration Points Test is used to determine your eligibility for several skilled visas, including the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491). To be invited to apply for these visas, you must achieve a minimum score of 65 points. However, meeting the minimum threshold doesn’t guarantee an invitation, as higher scores are often needed due to competitive selection processes.
Factors that Influence Your Points Score
1. Age
- Maximum Points: The most points are awarded to applicants aged between 25 and 32 years (30 points). Points decrease as you move outside this age range, with no points available for those aged 45 or older.
2. English Language Proficiency
- Proficiency Levels: Points are awarded based on your English language test results. You can score:
- 20 points for superior English (e.g., IELTS 8 or above in each band),
- 10 points for proficient English (e.g., IELTS 7 in each band),
- 0 points for competent English (e.g., IELTS 6 in each band).
3. Skilled Employment Experience
- Work Experience: Points are awarded for work experience in your nominated occupation or a closely related field:
- Up to 20 points for more than 8 years of experience in Australia,
- Up to 15 points for more than 8 years of overseas experience,
- Lesser points for fewer years of experience.
4. Educational Qualifications
- Qualifications: Points are awarded for recognized educational qualifications:
- 20 points for a doctorate from an Australian institution or a recognized overseas institution,
- 15 points for a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree,
- 10 points for a diploma or trade qualification.
5. Australian Study Requirement
- Study in Australia: You can earn 5 additional points if you have completed at least 2 years of full-time study in Australia at an eligible institution.
6. Specialist Education Qualification
- STEM Qualifications: An additional 10 points are awarded for completing a master’s degree by research or a doctorate in Australia in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) field.
7. Partner Skills
- Partner Contribution: You can gain up to 10 points if your partner meets the age, English language, and skilled employment criteria. If your partner has competent English but no other qualifications, you may earn 5 points. Single applicants automatically receive 10 points.
8. Nomination or Sponsorship
- State Nomination or Regional Sponsorship: You can earn additional points if you are nominated by an Australian state or territory government (5 points) or sponsored by a family member for a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (15 points).
Strategies to Maximize Your Points Score
1. Improve Your English Language Skills
- Language Proficiency: Consider taking an English language course or retaking the English language test to achieve a higher score, as this can significantly boost your points.
2. Gain More Work Experience
- Experience Matters: If possible, gain additional years of work experience before applying. Experience in your nominated occupation or a related field can help you earn more points.
3. Further Your Education
- Educational Pathways: Consider pursuing higher education qualifications, particularly in STEM fields, to gain additional points for specialist education.
4. Explore State Nomination
- State-Specific Pathways: Research the nomination requirements of various Australian states and territories. Securing state nomination can provide a valuable points boost.
5. Leverage Partner Skills
- Partner Contribution: If you have a partner, ensure they meet the relevant criteria to contribute points to your application. If your partner can improve their English or gain more work experience, this can enhance your combined points score.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Misunderstanding the Points Test: Ensure you fully understand the points test criteria and how points are awarded. Miscalculations or incorrect assumptions can lead to a lower than expected score.
- Ignoring Expiry Dates: English language test results and skills assessments have expiry dates. Ensure these documents are valid at the time of your visa application to avoid losing points.
- Overlooking State and Regional Opportunities: Don’t focus solely on the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189). Explore state and regional sponsorship opportunities, which can increase your points and improve your chances of receiving an invitation.
Why Choose VisaTasker Pty Ltd?
Navigating the Australian Skilled Migration Points Test can be complex, especially when trying to maximize your score for a competitive visa application. At VisaTasker Pty Ltd, our agents are registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA), and we provide expert guidance to help you understand the points system, identify areas for improvement, and prepare a strong visa application.
Contact Us Today
Ready to maximize your points for a skilled visa? Book a consultation with VisaTasker Pty Ltd, and let us assist you in navigating the Skilled Migration Points Test and securing your pathway to Australia.