NSW applies the same English requirement as the Department of Home Affairs, which is at least Competent English for the 190 and 491 visas. NSW accepts results from the following tests:
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
- Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic test
- Cambridge C1 Advanced test
- Occupational English Test (OET)
- CELPIP General
- LANGUAGECERT Academic
- Michigan English Test (MET)
Refer to the English test score tables for an overview of the required exam results.
Understanding the English levels for NSW nomination
For the 190 and 491 visas, the Department of Home Affairs requires at least Competent English. Higher levels of English also earn points in the skilled migration points test, and because NSW ranks and selects candidates, a higher score can make a real difference to your chances of being nominated and invited.
| English level | IELTS (each band) | PTE Academic (Listening / Reading / Writing / Speaking) | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Competent | 6 | 47 / 48 / 51 / 54 | 0 |
| Proficient | 7 | 58 / 59 / 69 / 76 | 10 |
| Superior | 8 | 69 / 70 / 85 / 88 | 20 |
The PTE Academic scores above apply to tests taken from 7 August 2025, when Home Affairs updated its score tables. Tests taken before that date are assessed against the previous scores. For the full tables, including TOEFL iBT, OET, C1 Advanced, CELPIP General, LANGUAGECERT Academic and the Michigan English Test, see our guide to the English test changes from 7 August 2025.
Accepted English tests
- IELTS (General Training or Academic)
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- Occupational English Test (OET)
- Cambridge C1 Advanced
- CELPIP General
- LANGUAGECERT Academic
- Michigan English Test (MET), which is not accepted for Superior English
Tests must be taken at a test centre. At-home and online versions of tests are not accepted for visa purposes.
Key rules to remember
- Timing for points: to claim points for Proficient or Superior English, your test must have been taken within 3 years before the date you are invited to apply.
- Passport exemption: citizens of the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand and the Republic of Ireland who hold a valid passport are taken to have Competent English, but still need a test result to claim English points.
- Your EOI must match your evidence: the English result you claim in your SkillSelect Expression of Interest must be one you can prove with a valid test report when you apply.
Does NSW require a higher English score than Home Affairs?
No. NSW uses the Home Affairs minimum of Competent English. However, NSW selects candidates from SkillSelect based on factors such as points score, English ability and skilled work experience, so higher English often helps you get invited. See our NSW state nomination page for the current requirements.
Can I improve my English score after I lodge my EOI?
Yes. You can sit the test again and update your EOI with the better result at any time before you are invited. Your points are assessed as at the date of invitation. Use our points test calculator to see the effect.
Do I need an English test if I am from the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand or Ireland?
Not to meet Competent English, as your passport is enough. If you want to claim 10 or 20 points for Proficient or Superior English, you need to provide a test result.
Can my partner’s English give me points?
Yes. If you are not claiming points for a skilled partner, you may be able to claim 5 points if your partner has at least Competent English and meets the other partner requirements.
Read more:
Other State Skilled Occupations lists for 190 visa and 491 state sponsored visa (which replaced the 489 in November 2019)
