PTE inspiration and advice

The Australian Department for Home Affairs (DHA) recently updated their score requirements for all accepted tests of language proficiency. The new score requirements take effect from 7 August 2025.

What are the new score requirements? 

From 7 August, anyone who takes the test for DHA visa purposes will need to meet updated score requirements.

The table below shows the old and new score requirements for each score.

We have also created a more accessible version of this table at the end of this article.

Endless beaches, world-class coffee, and… spiders the size of dinner plates (?) — Australia really does have it all! Thinking about making the move to the Land Down Under? Well, grab your sunscreen and let's explore the best places to call home in Australia.

Melbourne: the hipster haven

If laneway cafes, vibrant street art, and sipping artisanal coffee while wearing all black are your thing, Melbourne is your Southern Hemisphere soulmate.

Consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities, Melbourne’s thriving arts and music scenes, paired with endless brunch spots serving smashed avo on toast, keep the vibe electric.

With its unpredictable weather and famous tram network, Melbourne is a quirky yet sophisticated hub that never goes out of style.

Sydney: the showstopper

Sydney dazzles with its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, but there’s so much more to this multicultural metropolis.

From the golden sands of Bondi Beach to bustling neighborhoods like Newtown and Surry Hills, Sydney combines natural beauty with urban excitement. A magnet for international students and professionals, the city boasts fantastic job opportunities and a lively social scene.

Just prepare for housing prices that might rival your love for flat whites – but the unbeatable lifestyle makes it worth every cent.

Brisbane: the sunny sweetheart

Brisbane is a laid-back city that deserves more love. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, it’s a paradise for those who prefer a more relaxed pace without sacrificing big-city perks.

The South Bank precinct offers riverside dining, cultural attractions, and a man-made beach, while nearby adventures like Moreton Island and the Gold Coast are just a short trip away.

Perth: the isolated gem

Perth may be one of the most isolated major cities in the world, but it’s worth the extra travel time for the quality of life.

With pristine beaches, sunny weather, and a booming economy, this Western Australian city has it all. Weekend wine tastings in the Swan Valley or trips to the quokka-filled Rottnest Island are local favorites.

Plus, with world-class universities and a vibrant arts scene, Perth proves that being far from everything can be a blessing in disguise.

The Gold Coast: the eternal summer

If you dream of an endless summer filled with surfing, sunshine, and stunning beaches, the Gold Coast will be your ultimate playground.

Known for its laid-back spirit, you’ll find a booming food scene, thrilling theme parks, and lush hinterlands perfect for hiking, as well as the famous 3 km-long “Surfers Paradise”.

The Gold Coast offers a year-round vacation vibe without compromising on modern conveniences.

Adelaide: the festival city

Adelaide may be quieter than some of its bigger siblings, but don’t underestimate its charm.

Known as the “Festival City,” Adelaide comes alive with events like the Adelaide Fringe and WOMADelaide. Its surrounding wine regions, including the Barossa Valley, are world-class, and the city’s low cost of living is a bonus.

Whether you’re enjoying fresh produce at the Adelaide Central Market or swimming with dolphins off the coast, Adelaide combines culture, nature, and affordability into one appealing package.

Canberra: the sophisticated sister

Often overshadowed by Sydney and Melbourne, Australia’s capital city quietly holds its own with top-tier universities, abundant job opportunities, and a clean, green aesthetic.

Canberra’s museums, galleries, and parks make it a cultural treasure trove, while its thriving food scene keeps locals happy. Sure, there are plenty of roundabouts, but that just adds to the city’s unique charm.

With a focus on education, career growth, and quality of life, Canberra is a sophisticated choice for those who value stability and style.

Relocating to Australia

Moving to Australia isn’t just about picking a city—it’s about embracing a lifestyle that offers both opportunity and belonging. When we talked to people who’d made the move, 90% of respondents report that they feel welcome in Australia and 81% say they have access to opportunities that aren’t available in their home countries.

If you’re planning to make the move Down Under, we’re here to make sure you have a worry-free start. PTE Academic is accepted by 100% of Australian universities and colleges, and it’s valid for all migration visas.

It’s the faster, fairer, simpler test that opens the door to your Australian adventure — no matter which city you choose to call home.

Whether you need to prove your English for an education, work, or migration visa application, we’re here to make your PTE test booking in Perth quick, easy, and stress-free.

Find your perfect test center in Perth

Perth offers multiple test centers equipped with modern facilities to ensure a smooth testing experience. Popular test centers include:

• Navitas English Perth on Newcastle Street

• Pearson Professional Center on William Street

• New North Perth test center on Fitzgerald Street!

Wherever you are in Perth, there's a PTE test center near you — check availability and book now.

Why choose PTE?

PTE is the faster, fairer and simpler English language test.

• Get your results typically in just 2 business days

• Our unique combination of AI scoring and human expertise reduces the risk of bias

• Test all your language skills in just one short, computer-based test

Tips for success

Prepare for your PTE test like a pro:

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before your test time

• Bring a valid ID for verification

• Practice with mock tests to build confidence

• Stay calm and focused – you’ve got this!

Don't wait — book early!

Popular test dates fill up fast so book your PTE test in Perth today! Secure your spot at a convenient location and start the journey to your education, work, or migration aspirations.

From world-famous beaches to stunning coral reefs, hopping wildlife to bbq-loving locals, it’s no wonder that Australia claims two top ten spots in the Global Liveability Index. 

Whether you’re looking for bustling cities or quiet countryside, Australia is full of potential, with education, career opportunities and a sense of community being the biggest draws.  

But how did people choose their new life down under? We talked to over 3000 PTE test takers who’ve migrated to Australia to find out why they made the move and what they love about their new home.  

High-quality education

According to our survey, over 64% identify Australia’s high-quality education system as a major pull. Australia takes in a huge number of international students, with over 810,000 enrolled to study in Australia from 2023.  

A warm welcome and support for their existing international student population only encourages more to apply, creating a strong international community.  

Those looking to study in Australia have a choice of more than 40 universities offering huge choices in academic programs.  

On a student visa, you have the option to work part-time during your studies, allowing international students to support themselves while learning, and making Australia an affordable option for those looking to study in an English-speaking country.  

Career opportunities

One of the most appealing aspects of moving to Australia is the number of career opportunities. Top sectors shaping the economy and providing great employment opportunities include mining (14.3%), health and education (12.8%), and finance (7.4%).  

Our PTE test takers told us they were able to find well-paid work, with some even going on to start businesses and buy a home down under. More than nine in ten (91%) are working full-time, with 72% employed in skilled professions with a median income of $93k.  

Over 87% said they were looking to progress their careers in Australia, suggesting they’re feeling fulfilled in their work and optimistic about their long-term career options in the country. PTE Academic is recognized by a wide range of professional bodies for their skills assessments, including engineering, nursing and midwifery and accounting to name a few. This opens many doors for pursuing a career in Australia.   

Sense of community

A warm welcome and sense of community are what makes a new place become home. Beyond education and career opportunities, social integration was one of the main advantages of migrating to Australia.  

We found that 84% of people that had moved to Australia say they’ve successfully built community connections, with 89% having experienced acts of kindness from others. Movers also report wanting to contribute to their new communities, with more than 1 in 10 taking part in volunteer activities.  

This two-way integration makes Australia an attractive place to put down roots and become a part of the country’s diverse social fabric.

A long-term move

So many respondents shared their positive experiences of moving to Australia, with 8 in 10 saying Australia met or exceeded their expectations and 9 in 10 encouraging others to make the move and join them.  

Many see it as a long-term move with 70% wanting to stay and gain permanent residency.   

From education and employment opportunities to vibrant international communities, it’s easy to see why so many English-speakers are saying “G’day” to a new chapter in Australia.  

Making it happen with PTE

It takes ambition and commitment to start a new life abroad — along with the right support.  

Our survey found that 66% of migrants felt their success at work in Australia was down to their English language skills.  

PTE Academic is recognised by the Australian government for all visa categories and is accepted by 100% of universities in Australia.

Designed to be faster, fairer, and simpler, 87% prefer PTE over similar tests. So, if the Great Australian Dream sounds like the right fit for you, take the first step with PTE.

Working Holiday/Work and Holiday visas (subclass 417 & subclass 462) 

Are you looking for a visa that provides an incredible opportunity for self-discovery, growth and learning? Travel to Australia and you'll meet new people, learn about a variety of cultures and develop new skills and interests. 

The Working Holiday and Work & Holiday visas allow people from 18 to 30 years old (or 35 years old for some countries) to have an extended holiday in Australia and work to help fund their trip (not accompanied by dependent children). 

As part of your visa application, you will need to provide proof of your English language skills. PTE Academic is accepted by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs for all visa categories, including Working Holiday Maker program visa applications. 

The cost of applying for either the Working Holiday visa or the Work and Holiday visa is AUD 650. If you choose to extend your visa (for up to a second or third year), you must pay another AUD 650 each time. Note: Extensions are available if you meet specific work requirements in regional Australia.

Learn more about the Working Holiday Maker Program and the visas:

• Working Holiday (subclass 417) visa 

• Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa 

If you're Malaysian, check here for more information on the Australian Work and Holiday Visa and the application for the Certificate of Good Conduct from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

If you are in Thailand, please refer to the Department of Children and Youth for more information on the application process.

*Price as of publication in December 2024. Please check the Australian Government website for latest information.

Last updated 20 December 2024.

Studying in Australia is a dream for many students. The country is known for its long stretches of white sandy beaches, rugged outback, and charming people. 

It’s also home to more than 1,100 world-class institutions - earning Australia a reputation for being a top study abroad destination. And don’t just take our word for it: 90% of international students reported being happy studying and living in Australia, according to a 2018 government report.  

For many international students, working in-between studies to pay for living expenses is also part of life in Australia. So what kinds of jobs are popular for students in the country? And what is the pay like? Let’s take a look:

1. Barista 

Coffee culture is huge in Australia. Because the country is famous for its “flat white” drinks and quality coffees, there are many different cafes for international students to apply at. After all, where there is a demand, there will always be jobs! 

Of course, working as a barista requires that you have strong customer service skills, are proficient in English, and are familiar with popular coffee orders and how to make them (although your workplace will likely also train you). Because cafe culture is so important to Australians, a job serving coffee is arguably one of the best ways to feel immersed in the local culture.  

2. Bartender  

For students, being a bartender has many perks. The hours you work rarely conflict with regular university class schedules. Being a bartender is a great way to meet new people. You could also earn tips. Tipping isn’t part of Australian culture per se, however it is becoming more common to tip service staff a small amount to thank them for good service.  

If you’re interested in serving drinks, you could also consider getting a job at an Australian winery. Because Australia has so many wineries (about 2,361 in total), wine culture is not only a prevalent part of life in Australia. It’s also always usually a thriving industry with lots of job opportunities. 

3. Server 

Keen on the hospitality industry? Serving is another great job. And, even better if you get to work at a beachside restaurant. The University of Adelaide, The University of the Sunshine Coast, and The University of Melbourne are all institutions located by the coast, where international students have the opportunity to earn a living part-time while also experiencing Australia’s beautiful beaches.  

4. Hotel and hostel jobs 

A bonus of studying in a place that happens to be an internationally-famous vacation spot is that there are many jobs in hospitality. Students studying at institutions like The University of Tasmania, for example, can benefit from the local tourism industry by applying for jobs cleaning in hotels or cooking in hotel kitchens.  

Australia’s hostels are also great spots to look for a job. Foreign students would be a great fit for hostel jobs like receptionists because of their international experience, age, and language skills. The bonus here is that you will find yourself working amongst like-minded and fun travelers.  

5. Fruit picking 

Australia has plenty of fruit picking jobs throughout the country. Strawberry, blueberry, and avocado picking jobs, for example, are all common jobs available to students in Australia. They’re also quite common to come across. Recently, the government also announced they’d allow students working in agriculture to work more hours every week - which is a big plus! We share more on that below.  

How many hours can I work? 

When studying in Australia, one of the main regulations for international student visa holders is that  they can work up to 48 hours every two weeks while studying and unlimited hours during study breaks on an Australian student visa. 

The government changed those restrictions for students working in certain industries to support these sectors during the pandemic. Now, students can work unlimited hours in healthcare, disability care, aged care, agriculture, and tourism. 

What’s the minimum wage in Australia? 

Australia is known for its high minimum wage. The minimum wage in Australia is $24.10 per hour or $915.90 per week - this is a huge draw for many international students.   

Where should I look for work?

Your institution in Australia should have a career center to help you look for work. They should provide you with resume and interview tips, as well as a job board that lists open positions. We always recommend visiting your institution’s career centre when beginning your job search.  

There are also job sites like Indeed, Seek, and Jobactive from the Australian Government’s Department of Education, Skills, and Employment. All of these sites list thousands of part-time jobs for international students to consider.  

Last updated 20 December 2024.

Ready to go? 

PTE can help you secure a spot at an Australian institution. Our test is faster, fairer, simpler, and accepted by all universities in Australia.   

Learn more about PTE Academic.

It’s not hard to understand why so many international students want to move to Australia. The country has a world-class education system, excellent climate, and high quality of life. But studying in Australia can be expensive – and you need to be financially prepared before you take the leap.  

In this blog, we’ll help you get started. We’ll explore the student loan options available for international students in Australia, as well as other ways to fund your studies.  

How much money will I need? 

Before you begin to research student loans, it’s important to understand how much it costs to live and study in Australia. You can use the Course Search Tool to find out detailed tuition fee for your dream course and the Cost of Living Calculator to estimate the living cost based on the city you want to move to.  

What student loans in Australia could I be eligible for? 

Australia’s student loan system is known as the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP).  Unfortunately, HELP can only be accessed by Australian citizens or individuals who hold a humanitarian visa. However, there are still lots of other student loans available for international students in Australia.  

University loans 

Universities across Australia provide loans for local and international students. Most institutions offer both short-term and long-term loans; these can help students cover emergencies, as well as pay for bigger expenses.  

Here are a few examples of what some universities offer:  

• The University of Melbourne will loan eligible students up to$5,000 AUD ($3,883 USD) if they have an Australian co-signer. They’ll loan students up to $3,000 AUD ($2,330 USD) if their co-signer lives overseas or isn’t an Australian citizen/ permanent resident. 

• The University of Sydney offers loans up to $2,000 ($1,550 USD), which can be paid back up to two years after graduation.  

• Students in need of financial assistance at Monash University can take out loans between $750-$3,000 AUD ($544 – $2,330 USD), to be paid back within 6-12 months. 

Universities across Australia offer similar loans. It’s best to check directly with your institution to see exactly what loans are available to students – and to make sure you’re eligible.  

International student loan schemes  

You might be eligible to take out federal student loans in your home country to study in Australia. For example, students from the U.S., Canada, Sweden, Norway, or Denmark who attend the University of Sydney can access government funding from home.  

Private loans  

A private loan is one of the simplest forms of international student loans in Australia: you borrow money from a bank or similar lender and repay the loan (with interest) over an agreed-upon period of time. These loans can be secured – which means they’re tied to collateral – or unsecured. But with unsecured loans, interest rates are usually higher. 

How else can I pay for my studies? 

Student loans aren’t the only way to pay for your education in Australia. Here are a few other options to consider:  

Work in Australia  

Many international students are attracted to Australia because they know they’ll be able to work. Unlike other studies abroad destinations, you can work up to 48 hours every two weeks while studying and unlimited hours during study breaks on an Australian student visa. Even more, the minimum wage in Australia is $24.10 per hour or $915.90 per week – meaning many international students are able to pay for some of the costs associated with living in Australia while they study.   

Apply for scholarships 

There are a number of scholarship opportunities for international students in Australia – both funded by the government, and universities. Some, like Australia Awards scholarships, support students with full tuition, living costs, and airfare. Check out the Australian Government’s search tool to find a scholarship that’s right for you.  

Read more: scholarships for international students in Australia 

Take out a private loan in your home country

To apply for a student visa in Australia, you need to prove you have sufficient funds. For this reason, many students decide to take out a private bank loan in their home country before coming to study in Australia.

As you can see, there are lots of ways to fund your studies in Australia as an international student. But everyone’s financial situation is different, so we recommend doing lots of research to find a loan you feel confident about – and one that will work for you both during, and after university.

Still, deciding where in the world you want to study? Check out our article types of loans for international students, which explores more loan options in Canada, the U.S., and the U.K.

We are not immigration agents. For all up-to-date information about visa rules and regulations, see the official guidelines on the Australia Department of Home Affairs website.

Last updated 20 December 2024.

Have you been accepted to study in Australia? Looking for a place to live can be one of the most enjoyable parts of planning your move abroad. There are lots of housing opportunities for international students – and in this blog, we’ll take you through a few options.

We’ll explore accommodation around two popular universities – The University of Adelaide and The University of Melbourne to help you begin your search. We’ll also give you an idea about where you might look for housing in other cities around the country. 

What’s important to you? 

There are a number of things you should consider when deciding on a place to live. We recommend making a list of everything you want in a home. Having a clear idea about what kind of place you want to live in will help you to narrow down your housing options – and ensure you have the best possible experience abroad. Ask yourself:  

• Do you want to live close to campus? 

• Do you want to live in a house or an apartment?

• Do you want to live in a social setting with roommates?

• What amenities can’t you live without? (like air conditioning or high-speed internet)

• And, of course, what is your budget? 

You might be interested in our blog: Australian loans for international students 

On-campus housing 

Nearly all major institutions in Australia offer on-campus accommodation for international students. Lots of people choose to live in these residences because they’re convenient and it’s really easy to get to class. University residences also provide international students with a supportive place to call home right upon arriving from abroad.

Living on-campus is a great opportunity to meet fellow students, too, because there are usually lots of social events planned throughout the semester. Accommodation can range from shared dorm rooms, single rooms, or private studio apartments, and can cost between $110-$280 AUD a week.

So, what do The University of Adelaide and The University of Melbourne offer?

• The University of Adelaide has a few different housing options. These include The University of Adelaide Village, Mattanya Student Residences, and Roseworthy Residential College for students at the university’s rural campus. These consist of 4-5 bedroom residences, apartments, and townhouses, as well as furnished houses.

• At The University of Melbourne, there are 4 student residences, with a new one set to open later in 2021. These consist of private studio apartments, as well as hundreds of shared and dorm-style rooms. The newest, called Little Hall, has more than 20 shared spaces – and even has a cinema! 

   

Off-campus housing 

There is a whole range of housing options off-campus, too. Let’s explore:  

Student accommodation 

There are lots of private student accommodation options located close to universities. They are usually not managed by universities themselves. But they are designed specifically for students and usually have many of the same facilities as a student residence – such as food halls or study rooms.

Remember, even if you don’t live in a university residence, you can still have a full social life and take part in activities with fellow students.

Check out these resources to help find off-campus student accommodation in Melbourne and Adelaide: 

• Adelaide Student Housing is a website made to help international students look for accommodation in the city. It’s run by the Government of South Australia and features more than two dozen student housing options – including places like UniLodge, Y Suites, and Atira Student Living. The website also lists weekly prices for each property, making it easy for international students to compare. Prices range between $105-$690 AUD a week.

• Close to the University of Melbourne, you can also find places like UniLodge and Infinity Place. Prices for these two options range between $173-$589 AUD a week. If you want to look for more student housing locations check out the website University Living, which lists accommodation for students in hundreds of cities around the world.

Private rentals  

When you finally arrive in Australia, you might also decide to live on your own in an apartment. There are definitely some benefits to living in a private rental. You get more independence and privacy. You can also choose to live anywhere you like in your new city or town.

According to the government website Study Australia, rent can cost between $185-$440 AUD a week. You might also be asked to sign a lease for an extended period, which could give you less flexibility during your time abroad.

You can look for private rentals in Melbourne, Adelaide, and across Australia using websites like Domain, Gumtree, or realestate.com.au. 

Living with roommates  

Sharing a house or apartment is a popular option for local and international students alike. It’s common for three or more people to share the same living space.

Overall, this arrangement gives you a great chance to meet other students or young professionals – and perhaps even form lasting friendships. Shared accommodation can cost between $95-$215 AUD a week. Just make sure to sign a contract so everyone is aware of their rights and responsibilities.

You can search for roommates on websites like flatmates.com.au or Flatmate Finders. Also check out university-specific community Facebook groups, where students often post rooms for rent.  

Homestays 

You might choose a homestay option, which means you’ll live with a local family. This might help you feel more supported and less isolated. You’ll also get the chance to practice your English skills in a home environment and possibly go on trips to visit local attractions, celebrate holidays, and experience your host family’s culture.

Homestays usually include meals, which can be a big plus for busy students. They can be arranged by an education agent in Australia, but there are a range of organizations you can look into for more information, as well – including  Australia Home Stay Network, and Study Vision.

As you can see, there are lots of accommodation options for international students across Australia. And the best part? Many are designed to support students’ needs and make them feel at home while abroad.

At PTE Academic, we’re also committed to helping students succeed. We have tons of resources for international students moving across borders – including articles on Australian student visas, the benefits and costs of studying in Australia, and scholarships around the world. Check them out!

Are you interested in working as a nurse overseas? With the right qualifications, your passion for nursing could help you begin a new chapter in Australia, the US, or the UK.

In this guide, we’ll learn about what you’ll need to do to work as a registered nurse in each country, as well as what employment opportunities waiting for you abroad. Let’s explore:  

Nursing in Australia: requirements