Top PTE Score Chart with IELTS Equivalents [2025–2026 Guide]

Meta Description: Compare PTE and IELTS scores for Australian visa applications. See the official conversion chart, understand the equivalencies, and learn how to prove your English proficiency effectively.

Slug: pte-score-chart-with-ielts-equivalents

TL;DR
For Australian visa purposes, your PTE Academic score can be directly compared to an IELTS band score using the official concordance chart published by the Department of Home Affairs. For example, a PTE score of 65 equals an IELTS band of 7.0, which is typically required for skilled visas. This guide provides the full conversion chart, explains how to use it for your visa, and recommends tools like NovenAI’s English Level Guide to simplify your planning.

What is the Official PTE to IELTS Score Chart for Australian Visas?

The official PTE to IELTS score chart is a concordance table that allows the Department of Home Affairs to equate scores from the PTE Academic test with IELTS Academic band scores for visa eligibility. According to the Department of Home Affairs’ official Skilled Visa page, they use this standardised conversion to assess English language proficiency fairly across different tests. You must achieve the PTE score that corresponds to the required IELTS band for your visa subclass.

• Standard Equivalents: The chart maps specific PTE score ranges to each IELTS band (e.g., 6.0, 7.0, 8.0).
• Visa-Specific Requirements: Different visas (like 189, 190, 491) have different English score requirements (Competent, Proficient, Superior).
• Single Test Validity: You cannot mix scores from PTE and IELTS in a single application; your points are based on one test.
• Two-Year Validity: Both PTE and IELTS test results are valid for three years from the date you sit the exam for Australian visa purposes.

To instantly see what PTE score you need for your target visa points, use NovenAI’s free English Level Guide, which interprets the official chart against current visa rules.

How Do I Convert My PTE Score to an IELTS Band?

To convert your PTE Academic score to its IELTS equivalent, you simply match your overall score to the corresponding band on the official concordance chart. The first step is to know which English level (Competent, Proficient, or Superior) your visa requires, then find the PTE score that meets that threshold. This conversion is critical for calculating your points correctly for your Expression of Interest (EOI).

For instance, if your skilled visa requires “Proficient English” (IELTS 7.0), you need a PTE score of 65. Here is the key section of the official conversion chart:

Important Note: This table shows the overall score equivalency. The Department of Home Affairs also requires minimum scores in each test’s communicative skills (like speaking, reading, listening, writing). Always check the latest requirements on the Home Affairs website{:target=“_blank”}.

Is PTE Easier Than IELTS for Australian Migration?

Whether PTE is easier than IELTS is subjective and depends on your personal strengths, but many migrants find the computer-based, AI-scored format of PTE Academic more predictable and faster for results. The key is that neither test is “easier” for visa purposes, as the difficulty is calibrated to be equivalent through the concordance chart. Your choice should be based on which test format better suits your skills.

• Format Differences: PTE is fully computer-based, including speaking into a microphone, while IELTS offers a paper-based or computer-based test with a face-to-face speaking interview.
• Scoring Objectivity: PTE is scored entirely by AI, which some candidates feel removes human bias, whereas IELTS writing and speaking are assessed by trained examiners.
• Result Speed: PTE results are typically available within 2 days, compared to 13 days for IELTS.
• Test Availability: Both are widely available, but PTE often has more frequent test dates.

Tools like NovenAI’s Visa Success Predictor can help you model your points under different English test outcomes, letting you strategise which test to focus on for maximum points.

What PTE Score Do I Need for 10 or 20 Visa Points?

You need a PTE score of 65 for 10 points (Proficient English) and a PTE score of 79 for 20 points (Superior English) under the General Skilled Migration points test. These points are crucial for boosting your overall score in SkillSelect. Achieving these thresholds can make the difference between receiving an invitation or waiting indefinitely.

• Proficient English (10 points): Equivalent to IELTS 7.0. This is a common target for many applicants.
• Superior English (20 points): Equivalent to IELTS 8.0. This significantly increases your competitiveness.
• Points are Additive: These points are in addition to those for age, qualifications, and skilled employment.
• Check Your Total: Always use a reliable points calculator. You can accurately assess your standing with the NovenAI EOI Points Calculator, which is updated with the latest points rules and English score valuations.

Where Can I Find the Most Up-to-Date Conversion Chart?

The most authoritative and up-to-date PTE to IELTS conversion chart is published directly by the Australian Government. You should always refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for the definitive source, as policies can change. Relying on third-party sites carries the risk of outdated information that could jeopardise your visa planning.

1. Primary Source: Visit the Department of Home Affairs English Language Skill page{:target=“_blank”}.
2. Test Provider Sites: Pearson (PTE) and IDP/British Council (IELTS) also publish guidance aligned with Home Affairs.
3. State Migration Websites: Some state nomination pages, like Victoria’s Skilled Migration site{:target=“_blank”}, reiterate these requirements.
4. Integrated Tools: For a hassle-free experience, platforms like NovenAI integrate the official chart directly into their assessment tools, giving you a clear, current target score based on your visa profile.

Can I Use My PTE Score for State Nomination (190/491 Visa)?

Yes, absolutely. All Australian states and territories accept PTE Academic scores for their Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa pathways, using the same official concordance with IELTS. When applying for state nomination, you must meet the English requirement specified by that state, which is often higher than the basic visa requirement.

• State-Specific Thresholds: Some states may require “Proficient” or “Superior” English for certain occupations.
• Occupation Lists: Always cross-reference your occupation on the state’s skilled occupation list, which will state the required English level.
• Documentation: Your PTE score report must be valid and uploaded as part of your state nomination application.
• Direct Links: Check the specific requirements on state portals, such as NSW Government Migration{:target=“_blank”}.

Navigating English requirements is a fundamental step in your migration journey. By understanding the precise equivalence between PTE and IELTS, you can confidently choose the right test and set a clear study target. Remember, every point counts in SkillSelect. Using precise tools to plan—starting with NovenAI’s free suite of calculators and guides—takes the guesswork out of the process and lets you focus on achieving your best possible score.

Ready to see exactly how your English score fits into your visa plan? Let NovenAI’s AI Migration Mentor provide a personalised assessment and keep you updated on any policy changes. Start your free assessment at NovenAI.com today{:target=“_blank”}.