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Calculate your Skilled Migration points for Subclass 189, 190 and 491 visas using the current Department of Home Affairs points test.
Estimated GSM Score
Points Breakdown
Ways To Improve Your Score
About This Calculator
This calculator estimates your points under Australia's General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. It can be used to assess your eligibility for Subclass 189 Skilled Independent, Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated and Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional visas.
The calculation is based on the points test published by the Department of Home Affairs and includes factors such as age, English language ability, skilled employment experience, educational qualifications, partner points and nomination pathways.
What Is The GSM Points Test?
Skilled migration applicants must score points across a range of factors that demonstrate their ability to contribute to the Australian workforce and economy.
Points are awarded for age, English language ability, skilled work experience, qualifications and several bonus categories. Some visa pathways also receive nomination points from a state, territory or regional sponsor.
Most skilled migration visas require a minimum score of 65 points before an applicant can be considered for invitation.
How Skilled Migration Points Are Calculated
The largest contributors to a GSM score are usually age, English language ability, employment experience and educational qualifications.
Applicants aged between 25 and 32 receive the highest age score, while superior English test results can contribute a significant number of additional points.
Skilled employment experience gained in Australia and overseas can also contribute points, although employment points are subject to an overall cap under the points test.
What Is A Competitive GSM Score?
Reaching 65 points satisfies the minimum threshold for most skilled migration pathways, but invitation rounds are competitive and invitations are generally issued to the highest-ranking candidates first.
While requirements vary by occupation and invitation round, many applicants aim for scores of 75 points or higher to improve their competitiveness.
Applicants with state or regional nomination may benefit from additional nomination points that can significantly strengthen their profile.
How To Increase Your Skilled Migration Points
Many applicants can improve their score through stronger English language results, additional skilled work experience or by pursuing state or regional nomination pathways.
Other opportunities may include completing a Professional Year program, obtaining a Credentialled Community Language qualification through NAATI or claiming points through an eligible partner.
Depending on your circumstances, even a small increase in points can improve your chances of receiving an invitation.
Subclass 189 vs 190 vs 491
Subclass 189 Skilled Independent
The Subclass 189 visa does not require state nomination and allows successful applicants to live and work anywhere in Australia as permanent residents.
Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated
The Subclass 190 visa requires nomination by a state or territory government and provides an additional 5 points under the points test.
Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional
The Subclass 491 visa is a regional pathway that provides an additional 15 points and may lead to permanent residence after meeting eligibility requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum score required?
Most GSM pathways require at least 65 points before an applicant can be considered for invitation.
Does 65 points guarantee an invitation?
No. Invitations are generally issued to the highest-ranking candidates and invitation scores vary between occupations and invitation rounds.
Can I claim points for both Australian and overseas work experience?
Yes. However, employment experience points are subject to an overall cap under the points test.
Can partner points improve my score?
Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to claim points for a skilled partner, a partner with competent English or where your partner is an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
Is this an official government calculator?
No. This calculator is an independent planning tool designed to help prospective migrants understand how the GSM points test works.
Disclaimer
This calculator provides an estimate only and should not be considered migration or legal advice. Skilled migration policies, invitation rounds, state nomination criteria and points allocations may change over time. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs and other official government sources before making migration decisions.
Considering The Student Visa Pathway?
Skilled migration is not the only route to Australia. Many migrants begin their journey as international students before progressing to temporary and permanent visa pathways. Depending on your age, qualifications, occupation and English language ability, studying in Australia may provide additional opportunities to build local work experience and strengthen your long-term migration prospects.
If you're exploring the education pathway, try our Australian Student Visa Funds Calculator to estimate how much financial evidence may be required when applying for a student visa.
What's Next?
Calculating your GSM score is only the first step. Once you understand where you stand, the next stage is determining which skilled migration pathway is most realistic for your circumstances. If you're still deciding between independent, state nominated or regional migration, explore our guides on skilled migration pathways, skills assessments and state nomination requirements to build a stronger migration plan.
