PTE for Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500)
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PTE for Subclass 500 (Student Visa)
PTE Academic is accepted for the Australian Student Visa (subclass 500). Requirements depend on your course type and university:
Visa-Level Minimums
- Vocational (VET): PTE 36+ overall (CEFR B1)
- Higher Education / Postgraduate: PTE 42+ overall (CEFR B2)
- English Language Programs (ELICOS only): No PTE required
- Pre-sessional packages: 30+ overall sometimes accepted
University Admission Scores (Typical)
| University Tier | Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
|---|---|---|
| Group of Eight (Melbourne, ANU, Sydney, UQ, etc.) | 58–65 | 65–79 |
| Top Tier (UTS, RMIT, Macquarie, Deakin) | 50–58 | 58–65 |
| Other public universities | 42–50 | 50–58 |
High-Bar Programs
- Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary: 65–79+ overall, sometimes with section minimums.
- Law: 65+ overall typical.
- Education / Teaching: 65+ overall, with 65+ Speaking and Writing.
- Nursing: 65+ overall + 65+ in each module + AHPRA registration after course.
Section Requirements
Many universities specify no section below X. Common patterns:
- Bachelor: 50 overall with no section < 50
- Master's: 58 overall with no section < 50
- Health science: 65 overall with no section < 65
Strategy
- Check your specific university + program at the official admissions page — requirements vary.
- Aim 5+ above the minimum. Buffer protects against an unexpected weak section.
- If a section is dragging your overall down, focus drilling on that module rather than balanced practice.
Practice on ClearMyPTE
Set your target score on your profile. The dashboard countdown helps you pace your prep against your application deadline.
Always verify current requirements directly with the university and the Australian Department of Home Affairs before booking your exam.