10 Questions you should ask before applying for a Skills Assessment for Permanent Residency in Australia

Work experience points are calculated based on the full-time equivalent (FTE) years of employment. Part-time roles are prorated; for example, two years at 50% workload count as one year of full-time work. Points are split between Australian and overseas experience, with a higher value assigned to Australian employment. Ensure documentation clearly indicates full-time or part-time status to maximize points.

No, you must achieve the required scores for all components in a single test. For example, you cannot use your IELTS writing score and PTE speaking score together. Each test result must stand alone, with all sections meeting the minimum scores required for points.

If your work experience overlaps with full-time study, only work performed outside of your study period is generally eligible for points. While some assessing authorities may review concurrent work, it’s typically only accepted if it doesn’t detract from full-time study commitments. Documentation must clarify the nature and timing of work relative to your education.

If an employer has ceased operations, you may submit statutory declarations or affidavits detailing your roles and duties, supported by alternative proof such as pay slips, tax records, or employment contracts. While declarations help, additional evidence is usually needed to satisfy assessing authorities and the Department of Home Affairs.

Yes, you can, but your partner’s occupation must be on a skilled occupation list relevant to your visa type, and they must undergo a successful skills assessment. Partner points vary based on qualifications, English proficiency, and age, with full points requiring full alignment with the visa criteria.

No, points for professional year programs are only awarded for those completed within Australia. These programs must be in fields like IT, engineering, or accounting and meet the standards set by recognized Australian professional bodies.

You receive points only for your highest completed qualification. If you hold a bachelor’s degree and a postgraduate diploma, points are awarded for the highest of the two. While multiple qualifications can strengthen your profile and eligibility for state nomination, they do not add cumulative points.

No, even if your education was in an English-speaking country, you must provide an accepted English language test score to claim points. Points are allocated only for test results from recognized providers, such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, and others.

Not always. Assessing authorities may only recognize part of your employment period as relevant. Only the periods assessed as positively related to your nominated occupation are counted for points. Be sure to review the assessment outcome to understand which segments of your work history are covered.