The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is recognized by 100% of Australian universities and is valid for all student and migration visa applications. For the 2026 academic intake, most universities require a minimum overall score of 58+ for Undergraduate and 65+ for Postgraduate programs. While the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) lowered the visa baseline in late 2025, university academic standards remain stringent.
Securing admission to PTE Accepted Universities in Australia for the 2026 academic year requires navigating tighter visa regulations and precise score benchmarks. With acceptance criteria fluctuating, relying on outdated score requirements is a strategic error that could cost you an offer letter.
Fortunately, the PTE Academic remains the preferred proficiency test for Indian students due to its fast turnaround and unbiased AI scoring. This guide delivers the exact data you need to confidently target the right institutions, including:
- Tier-wise Score Breakdowns: Exact cut-offs for Group of Eight (Go8) vs. regional universities.
- Visa Updates: Critical 2026 changes to Subclass 500 visa English requirements.
- Cost Analysis: Updated 2026 exam fees and university application costs.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 100% of Universities & Colleges (400+ institutions). |
| Minimum Score (Academic) | UG: 50–58 | PG: 58–65 (Program dependent). |
| PTE Exam Fee | AUD 445 (approx. ₹25,000). |
| Results Timeline | Typically, within 48 hours (2 business days). |
| Visa Requirement | Score 47 (Student Visa minimum); Score 58+ recommended for admission. |
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Universities Accepting PTE Scores by Range (2026)
Admission requirements for 2026 are strictly score-dependent. While the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) accepts a score of 47 for a student visa, academic institutions set their own higher benchmarks to ensure you can cope with the curriculum.
Below is the breakdown of which universities you can target based on your current or predicted PTE score.
1. PTE Score 65–79+ (High Proficiency)
Target Group: Top-ranked “Group of Eight” (Go8) universities and highly competitive professional programs (Law, Medicine, Nursing, Teaching).
A score of 65+ is effectively the “Safe Zone” for almost any Postgraduate (Master’s) application in Australia.
| University | Typical Requirement (Overall) | Competitive Programs (Req. 72+) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | 64–72+ | Law, Medicine, MBA |
| University of Sydney | 61 (UG) / 68 (PG) | Master of Commerce, Psychology |
| UNSW Sydney | 65 | Law, Clinical Psychology |
| University of Queensland | 64 | Master of Teaching, Nursing |
2. PTE Score 58–64 (Standard Proficiency)
Target Group: Major metropolitan universities and most standard Undergraduate/Postgraduate coursework degrees (IT, Business, Engineering).
This is the most common entry requirement for 2026 intakes.
| University | Popular Programs | Score Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Monash University | Bachelor of Business, Engineering | 58–64 |
| Australian National University | Master of Computing, Public Policy | 64 |
| RMIT University | Master of Data Science, Design | 58 |
| University of Adelaide | Master of Engineering | 58 |
| Deakin University | Master of IT, MBA | 58–60 |
3. PTE Score 50–58 (Moderate Proficiency)
Target Group: Regional universities, younger institutions, and Pathway/Diploma programs.
If your score falls in this range, you still have excellent options, particularly in regional areas which may offer additional migration incentives.
| University | Campus Location | Score Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| University of Tasmania (UTAS) | Hobart/Launceston | 50–58 |
| Charles Sturt University | Regional NSW/VIC | 50 |
| Griffith University | Gold Coast/Brisbane | 50–58 |
| Central Queensland University (CQU) | Rockhampton/Melbourne | 54–58 |
| Swinburne University of Technology | Melbourne | 50 (UG) / 58 (PG) |
PTE Accepted Universities in Australia: Score Comparison with IELTS & TOEFL
International students must demonstrate their proficiency in English. PTE is highly favoured for its speed and computer-based format.
Minimum Score Comparison for Master’s in Australia
| Test | Score Range | Minimum Score for Master’s in Australia (General) |
|---|---|---|
| PTE | 10–90 | 58–65 |
| IELTS | 1–9 | 6.5 (No band below 6.0) |
| TOEFL | 0–120 | 79–93 |
Key Differences: PTE vs. IELTS
| Feature | PTE (Pearson Test of English) | IELTS |
|---|---|---|
| Test Format | Fully computer-based. | Paper-based & computer-based options available. |
| Speaking Section | Recorded responses via computer. | Face-to-face interview with a human examiner. |
| Scoring System | 10–90 (AI-based scoring). | 0–9 (Human examiners assess). |
| Result Time | 1–2 days (Fastest). | 3–13 days. |
| Key Advantage | Faster results, consistent AI scoring, single-day format. | Widely accepted globally, preference for human interaction. |
PTE Accepted Universities in Australia: Visa and PR Score Updates (2026)
The Australian Department of Home Affairs (DHA) updated its English score requirements for visa and Permanent Residency (PR) purposes effective August 7, 2025. These changes are critical for Indian students planning to migrate post-study, as they focus heavily on individual skill scores (especially Writing and Speaking) rather than just the overall score.
| DHA English Category | PR Points | PTE Score (Before Aug 7, 2025) | PTE Score (After Aug 7, 2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Competent English | 0 points (Visa minimum) | 50 (all bands) | L: 47, R: 48, W: 51, S: 54 |
| Proficient English | 10 points | 65 (all bands) | L: 58, R: 59, W: 69, S: 76 |
| Superior English | 20 points (Maximum) | 79 (all bands) | L: 69, R: 70, W: 85, S: 88 |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply to PTE Accepted Universities in Australia
Following a structured application process is essential to meet deadlines and admission criteria.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Research Universities & Programs: Identify PTE Accepted Universities in Australia and confirm the exact PTE score required for your specific program (UG/PG).
- Meet the Minimum PTE Score: Ensure your score meets the requirement. If your score is low ($\text{<50}$), consider an ELICOS (English Language Course) pathway or retaking the test.
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather your academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and financial documents.
- Complete the Online Application: Fill out the application form on the university’s official website.
- Submit PTE Scores: Send your official PTE scores directly to the universities through the Pearson portal.
- Pay the Application Fee: Most charge a non-refundable fee, typically INR 4,000 – 12,000 (AUD 75-225).
Common Admission Requirements Beyond PTE
The PTE score is one part of your application. Australian universities also require:
- Academic Transcripts: High school/undergraduate mark sheets.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): A personal essay explaining your goals and motivation.
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Usually 2–3 letters from professors/employers.
- Financial Documents: Proof of funds to meet the Australia visa bank balance requirement.
Conclusion
Securing admission to PTE Accepted Universities in Australia is about more than just clearing a visa threshold. While the Department of Home Affairs has set the minimum student visa score at 47, relying on this baseline is a mistake. To access Australia’s top-tier education and ensure a smooth path to Permanent Residency (PR) later, your target must align with academic standards, typically 58+ for Undergraduate and 65+ for Postgraduate programs.
As you prepare for the 2026 intake, focus on maximizing your individual band scores, particularly in Writing and Speaking, as these are critical for both university entry and future migration points. With 100% of Australian institutions accepting PTE, your score is the most versatile asset in your application.
Ready to secure your 2026 seat? Book a free counselling session with Leap Scholar’s experts to get a personalized university shortlist based on your PTE score.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on PTE Accepted Universities in Australia
Is PTE accepted in Australia for master’s programs?
Yes, PTE is widely accepted for master’s programs in Australia. Most universities require a PTE score of 58–65 for postgraduate admission, but top-ranked institutions may require 65+ for certain programs.
What is the minimum PTE score required for Australia after 12th?
The PTE score requirement for undergraduate (bachelor’s) courses in Australia typically ranges from 50 to 58. Top universities may have higher cut-offs (60-65), depending on the course.
Which University accepts a low PTE score in Australia?
Several reputable institutions accept a PTE score of 50 for some master’s or bachelor’s programs, often regional universities or those offering pathway programs, such as Charles Sturt University or the University of Tasmania.
Is a 55 PTE score good for Australia?
A PTE score of 55 is considered average and meets the minimum requirement for many standard undergraduate programs and some mid-tier university postgraduate courses. For highly competitive or Go8 courses, a higher score (60-70) is needed.
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