If you’re an international student in Australia and planning to stay after graduation, the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is your path to gaining work experience and permanent residency. One of the key requirements for this visa is proving your English proficiency, and the Pearson Test of English (PTE) is one of the most popular ways to meet this requirement. From 7 August 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has implemented new score requirements for all recognised English language proficiency tests including the PTE.
In this guide, we’ll break down why the PTE is essential for the 485 visa, what scores you need in 2025, and how you can prepare for the test.
PTE Score Requirements for the 485 Visa
To meet the English language requirement for the 485 Visa, you need to achieve Competent English and meet the following requirements:
- An overall PTE score of 55.
- A minimum Listening Score of 40
- A minimum Reading Score of 42
- A minimum Writing Score of 41
- A minimum Speaking Score of 39
- The test must be taken within three years before lodging your visa application.
If your score is below the requirement, you’ll need to re-sit the test before submitting your visa application.
What is the 485 Visa?
The 485 Temporary Graduate Visa allows international students to stay and work in Australia after completing their studies. This visa is ideal for those who want to gain local work experience and explore pathways to permanent residency.
There are two main streams of the 485 Visa:
- Graduate Work Stream – For students with skills in demand in Australia.
- Post-Study Work Stream – For graduates of higher education degrees.
Regardless of which stream you apply for, meeting the English language requirement is compulsory.
Why is PTE Required for the 485 Visa?
English proficiency is a key requirement because it ensures you can communicate effectively in a professional and social setting in Australia. The PTE Academic test is widely accepted because:
- It’s computer-based, ensuring quick and unbiased results.
- The scoring is automated, eliminating human bias.
- Results are available within 48 hours, making it faster than other tests.
For many applicants, PTE is the preferred option because it’s easier to prepare for and offers flexible test dates.
How to Prepare for the PTE to Meet 485 Visa Requirements
If you need to achieve a higher score, here are some effective strategies:
✔ Practice regularly – Use official PTE practice tests to familiarise yourself with the test format.
✔ Improve time management – The test is fast-paced, so practicing under time limits is crucial.
✔ Master each section – Identify and focus on improving your weak areas, whether it’s Speaking, Writing, Reading, or Listening.
✔ Attend PTE Classes – Enrolling in a structured PTE preparation program can make a big difference.
Free PTE Masterclass to Learn More About PTE
Getting the right PTE score is a crucial step toward securing your 485 Visa. If you’re unsure about how to prepare, we’re here to help! If you’re looking for PTE classes in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide or Canberra, give us a call on +61 450 295 995 to get a free demo class. You’ll get expert tips, practice strategies, and insights to help you achieve your target score.