Age (max 30)
The single biggest factor. 25-32 gives 30 points. 33-39 gives 25. 40-44 gives 15. 45+ zero.
189 · 190 · 491 · Every Point Matters
The points test decides whether you are competitive.
Points strategy is led by our skilled migration specialists Gurjeev Bhalla and Sourabh Aggarwal across 189, 190, and 491 applications. Every point matters. A 75-point profile gets invited; a 65-point profile waits indefinitely. Understanding where every point comes from, and where you are losing points you could be claiming, is the difference between being competitive and being ignored.
All points categories
Eight scoring areas.
The points test has more scoring categories than most applicants realise. Each can add or lose points.
English language (max 20)
Superior (IELTS 8) gives 20. Proficient (IELTS 7) gives 10. Competent (IELTS 6) gives zero.
Overseas work experience (max 15)
Skilled overseas work experience: 5 years gives 10, 8+ years gives 15.
Australian work experience (max 20)
Skilled Australian work experience: 1 year gives 5, 3 years gives 10, 5 years gives 15, 8+ gives 20.
Qualifications (max 20)
Doctorate: 20. Bachelor or Masters: 15. Diploma or trade certificate: 10.
Partner skills (max 10)
Partner with skills assessment + English: 10. Partner with English only: 5. Single applicant: 10.
Professional Year (5)
Completed Professional Year in accounting, IT, or engineering: 5 points.
Other (5-15)
NAATI credentialled community language: 5. Regional study: 5. State nomination: 5 (for 190) or 15 (for 491).
Where applicants lose points
Three common patterns.
Most applicants lose points in predictable ways. Identifying and fixing these patterns adds real score.
Not pursuing superior EnglishThe jump from competent (0 points) to superior (20 points) is the single biggest gain available. Many applicants accept competent without retesting.
Partner skills not assessedIf the partner has a skilled occupation but no skills assessment, the 10 partner points are left on the table. Cost of assessment often justified.
Missing NAATI for eligible applicantsNAATI credentialled community language test adds 5 points. Works for applicants with strong second language.
Claiming points without evidenceEach claimed point needs evidence. Unsubstantiated claims trigger refusal. See skilled appeals.
Strategy by visa type
Different targets for different visas.
Each points-tested visa has different points dynamics. Strategy differs.
Subclass 189
Competitive threshold 65-90 depending on occupation. High-demand occupations lower. Common occupations higher. See 189 strategy.
Subclass 190
State nomination adds 5 points. State-by-state selection varies. Lower base threshold but state eligibility required.
Subclass 491
State or family sponsorship adds 15 points. Regional requirement. 5-year path to 191 PR.
The English test is the highest-return investment for most applicants.
Moving from competent (0 points) to superior (20 points) is the biggest single gain available. Multiple test attempts to reach superior are almost always worthwhile. A 20-point boost can move an applicant from uninvited to invited.
Common questions
The questions we hear most.
For points test strategy and EOI optimisation, book with Gurjeev Bhalla.
How do I calculate my points accurately?
Each category has specific eligibility rules. Self-calculation often overstates points. Professional review identifies realistic claimable points and gaps.
Can I submit an EOI before I have enough points?
Yes. EOIs can be lodged at any score. They sit in the pool until your points become competitive. Update the EOI as scores change.
Does Australian study add points?
Australian study requirement (2+ years of Australian study meeting specific criteria) is required for some points categories but is a threshold, not a scoring category.
Does my PhD count for 20 points if it is from overseas?
Yes, if recognised by the assessing authority. Most major overseas doctorates are recognised but confirmation is important.
Some information on this page has been sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and has been interpreted and approved by Principal Migration Agent Sourabh Aggarwal (MARN 1462159). Last reviewed: May 2026.