Schedule 6D — Points Test

Schedule 6D to the Migration Regulations 1994 is the points allocation table that forms the core of the Australian skilled migration points test. It is referenced by regulation 2.72 and gives effect to the points test requirement in s 101 of the Migration Act 1958.

Schedule 6D specifies how many points an applicant receives under each category. The minimum pass mark is 65 points. Applicants submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect, and those with the highest scores receive invitations to apply in periodic invitation rounds.

Schedule 6D is part of the Migration Regulations 1994, which are made under s 504 of the Migration Act 1958. The Schedule has been amended numerous times since introduction to adjust the points values for various factors in response to policy priorities. Amendments require a legislative instrument amending the Regulations, subject to parliamentary disallowance. The current Schedule 6D applies to Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visa applications.

Schedule 6D allocates points across the following main categories:

• Age: Points are awarded on a sliding scale. The maximum points (30) are awarded to applicants aged 25–32. Points decrease for applicants younger or older, and no points are awarded for applicants aged 45 or over.
• English language ability: Competent English (the minimum for the visa) attracts 0 additional points. Superior English (6.0 in each IELTS band) attracts 10 points. Proficient English (7.0 in each band) attracts 20 points.
• Skilled employment (overseas): Points for skilled employment outside Australia in the nominated occupation, on a sliding scale up to 8 years (15 points).
• Skilled employment (Australian): Higher points for employment in Australia in the nominated occupation, up to 8+ years (20 points).
• Education: Points for qualifications — Doctorate (20), Bachelor's/Master's (15), Diploma/trade (10).
• Australian study requirement: 5 points for completing at least 2 years of study in Australia in a registered course.
• Specialist education qualification: 10 points for a Master's degree by research or Doctorate from an Australian educational institution in a STEM field.
• Credentialled community language: 5 points for NAATI certification in a community language.
• Study in regional Australia: 5 points for completing study in a regional area.
• Partner skills: 10 points if the applicant's partner meets the age, English, and skills assessment requirements; 10 points if the applicant has no partner.
• State/territory nomination (Subclass 190): 5 points if nominated by a state or territory government.
• Designated area nomination (Subclass 491): 15 points if nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by an eligible relative in a regional area.
• Professional Year: 5 points for completing a Professional Year program in accounting, computing, or engineering.

The points claimed in the Expression of Interest are self-assessed. After an invitation is issued and a visa application lodged, the Department of Home Affairs formally assesses points under s 93. The formal points assessment may differ from the claimed score — for example, if employment evidence does not fully support the claimed years.