Borderproof Wire5 January 2026Key Takeaways: Australia's skilled migration pathway scores applicants across age, English proficiency, work experience, and education, with a minimum of 65 points needed and competitive applications often scoring 80-90.
- Age scores highest for 25-32 year olds (30 points max); English and work experience each contribute up to 20 points
- Bonus points are available for regional nomination (+15), specialist education (+10), and state nomination (+5)
- Visa subclasses 189 (independent), 190 (state-nominated), and 491 (regional) apply the points test differently
Understanding Australia's Points-Based System
Australia's skilled migration program uses a points test to assess visa applicants. You need a minimum of 65 points to be eligible, but competitive scores often exceed 80-90 points.
Points Breakdown
Age (Max 30 points)
- 18-24 years: 25 points
- 25-32 years: 30 points
- 33-39 years: 25 points
- 40-44 years: 15 points
- 45+ years: 0 points
English Language (Max 20 points)
- Competent (IELTS 6): 0 points
- Proficient (IELTS 7): 10 points
- Superior (IELTS 8): 20 points
Work Experience (Max 20 points)
- Australian: 1-3 years (5 pts), 3-5 years (10 pts), 5-8 years (15 pts), 8+ years (20 pts)
- Overseas: 3-5 years (5 pts), 5-8 years (10 pts), 8+ years (15 pts)
Education (Max 20 points)
- Doctorate: 20 points
- Bachelor's/Master's: 15 points
- Diploma/Trade: 10 points
Bonus Points
- Australian study requirement: 5 points
- Regional study: 5 points
- Specialist education: 10 points
- Professional year: 5 points
- Community language: 5 points
- Partner skills: 5-10 points
- State nomination (190): 5 points
- Regional nomination (491): 15 points
Key Visa Subclasses
- 189: Independent - no sponsor needed
- 190: State nominated - requires state sponsorship
- 491: Regional - 3 years in regional areas, then pathway to 191
