How to Get 65 Points for PR in Australia – Complete Guide by Hodophiles Visas

 Australia is one of the most preferred destinations for skilled professionals looking to build a stable and prosperous future. If you are planning to apply for Permanent Residency (PR), understanding the points system is the first and most important step. Many applicants ask the same question: how to get 65 points for PR in Australia?

In this detailed guide, Hodophiles Visas explains how the Australian PR points system works and how you can strategically achieve the minimum 65 points required to lodge your Expression of Interest (EOI).

Understanding the Australia PR Points System

Australia follows a points-based immigration system under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. To be eligible for PR visas like Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent), Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated), or Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional), you must score at least 65 points.

These points are calculated based on factors such as:

• Age
  
  

• English language proficiency
  
  

• Skilled work experience
  
  

• Educational qualifications
  
  

• State nomination or regional sponsorship
  
  

• Partner skills
  
  

• Additional criteria

While 65 points is the minimum requirement, higher scores increase your chances of receiving an invitation.

1. Age – Maximum 30 Points

Age plays a major role in determining your eligibility.

• 18–24 years: 25 points
  
  

• 25–32 years: 30 points
  
  

• 33–39 years: 25 points
  
  

• 40–44 years: 15 points

Applicants between 25 and 32 years receive the highest score of 30 points. If you fall in this age bracket, you already have a strong start toward your 65-point goal.

2. English Language Proficiency – Up to 20 Points

Your IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL score significantly impacts your PR points.

• Competent English (IELTS 6 each band): 0 points
  
  

• Proficient English (IELTS 7 each band): 10 points
  
  

• Superior English (IELTS 8 each band): 20 points

If you are wondering how to get 65 points for PR in Australia easily, improving your English score is one of the fastest ways to boost your total. Scoring “Superior English” can add 20 valuable points to your profile.

3. Skilled Work Experience – Up to 20 Points

Work experience inside or outside Australia adds weight to your application.

Overseas Work Experience:

• 3–4 years: 5 points
  
  

• 5–7 years: 10 points
  
  

• 8+ years: 15 points

Australian Work Experience:

• 1–2 years: 5 points
  
  

• 3–4 years: 10 points
  
  

• 5–7 years: 15 points
  
  

• 8+ years: 20 points

The more relevant experience you have in your nominated occupation, the better your chances of increasing your PR score.

4. Educational Qualifications – Up to 20 Points

Your highest qualification determines your score:

• Doctorate (PhD): 20 points
  
  

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree: 15 points
  
  

• Diploma or Trade qualification: 10 points

If your qualification is assessed positively by the relevant Australian assessing authority, you can claim these points.

5. State Nomination or Regional Sponsorship – Extra Points

If your score is close to 65 but not enough to secure an invitation, state nomination can help.

• Subclass 190 (State Nomination): 5 points
  
  

• Subclass 491 (Regional Sponsorship): 15 points

Many applicants reach 65 points or more through state nomination pathways. This is often the smartest strategy if your occupation is listed on a state’s demand list.

6. Partner Skills – Up to 10 Points

You can earn additional points based on your partner’s qualifications.

• Partner with competent English: 5 points
  
  

• Partner with skilled occupation + English: 10 points
  
  

• Single applicant: 10 points

If your spouse meets Australian PR requirements, it can significantly strengthen your application.

7. Additional Points You Can Claim

There are several other ways to increase your PR score:

• Australian study requirement: 5 points
  
  

• Professional Year in Australia: 5 points
  
  

• NAATI community language credential: 5 points
  
  

• Study in regional Australia: 5 points
  
  

• STEM qualification: 10 points

These additional criteria can help you move beyond the minimum 65 points and improve your invitation chances.

Sample Calculation: How to Reach 65 Points

Let’s understand with a simple example:

• Age (28 years): 30 points
  
  

• IELTS 7 each band: 10 points
  
  

• 5 years overseas experience: 10 points
  
  

• Bachelor’s degree: 15 points

Total = 65 Points

This is the minimum eligibility score required to submit your EOI.

Is 65 Points Enough for Australia PR?

Technically, 65 points is the minimum requirement. However, due to high competition, invitations are often issued to candidates with higher scores. Depending on your occupation and visa subclass, aiming for 75–85 points can improve your chances significantly.

That’s why it is important to plan your profile strategically rather than just meeting the minimum threshold.

How Hodophiles Visas Can Help

Understanding how to get 65 points for PR in Australia is just the beginning. The real challenge lies in:

• Selecting the right visa subclass
  
  

• Choosing the correct ANZSCO occupation
  
  

• Improving your English score
  
  

• Identifying suitable state nomination options
  
  

• Preparing a strong Expression of Interest

At Hodophiles Visas, our experienced consultants analyze your profile thoroughly and guide you step-by-step to maximize your PR points and secure the best pathway for Australian migration.

Final Thoughts

If you are serious about migrating to Australia, understanding the points system is crucial. Knowing exactly how to get 65 points for PR in Australia allows you to plan your application smartly and improve your chances of success.

While 65 points makes you eligible, a higher score makes you competitive. With proper guidance, documentation, and strategic planning, achieving your Australian PR dream becomes much easier.