Points calculator
The complete points test for the subclass 189, 190 and 491 visas - every Schedule 6D factor, scored live. 65 points is the legal floor; invitations in recent rounds have typically required considerably more.
Combined overseas + Australian employment points are capped at 20 under Schedule 6D - the cap has been applied to your score.
Age 45+ is not points-eligible for the 189, 190 or 491. Alternative pathways may exist - employer-sponsored, family or other options. Book advice on alternatives.
Meets the 65-point legal pass mark
Figures current as at 3 July 2026 (Schedule 6D, Migration Regulations 1994). General information only - not legal advice. Confirm at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
Understanding the
GSM points system
Age thresholds
Maximum points (30) are awarded between ages 25 and 32, measured at the time of invitation. From age 45 an applicant cannot be invited under the points-tested subclasses - but employer-sponsored and family pathways may remain open.
English proficiency
Competent English (IELTS 6 / PTE 50) is the entry requirement and scores 0 points. Proficient (IELTS 7 / PTE 65) adds 10; Superior (IELTS 8 / PTE 79) adds 20 - often the single largest lever in a candidate’s control.
Skilled employment - the 20-point cap
Only post-qualification skilled work in your nominated occupation (or a closely related one) within the last 10 years counts. Overseas experience earns up to 15 points; Australian experience up to 20 - but the combined employment total is capped at 20 points. This calculator enforces that cap automatically.
Reform outlook
The Commonwealth is consulting on a ground-up rewrite of the points test, with draft legislation expected around late 2026 and a new test targeted for 2027. Signalled directions include heavier weighting for younger ages and income-based points - none of it is law yet. We track every instrument as it lands.
Bonus points (boosters)
Research Masters or Doctorate in science, technology, engineering, mathematics or specified ICT - at least 2 academic years at an Australian institution.
Two academic years of study in Australia earns 5 points; completing that study while living in designated regional Australia earns 5 more.
Credentialled community language accreditation through NAATI testing.
A Professional Year program in accounting, ICT or engineering completed in Australia within the last 4 years.
Nomination & sponsorship (190/491)
Nomination adds points automatically - and changes which invitation range applies to you:
- • Subclass 190 State/Territory nomination: +5 points (permanent)
- • Subclass 491 State or family sponsorship: +15 points (provisional, regional)
State nomination is competitive in its own right - each state runs its own criteria and fees. We advise on state strategy as part of a skilled migration plan.
This tool applies Schedule 6D of the Migration Regulations 1994 as in force on 3 July 2026. It is general information, not legal advice, and does not assess occupation lists, skills assessments or state criteria. For a full eligibility review, see our skilled migration practice or book a consultation.