Maximising Your Points Score: 8 Strategies Migration Agents Won't Tell You

Australia's points test is highly competitive. In recent years, invitation scores for subclass 189 have climbed above 85 points. Here are the strategies that experienced agents use to maximise client scores.

1. Retake Your English Test

Moving from Proficient (IELTS 7.0 each band) to Superior (IELTS 8.0 each band) adds 10 points. For many applicants, this is the single biggest opportunity.

2. Complete a Professional Year

If you're in accounting, IT, or engineering, a Professional Year completed in Australia earns you 5 bonus points.

3. Obtain NAATI Accreditation

Community language accreditation through NAATI earns 5 points and is achievable in a second sitting.

4. Target Regional Nomination (491)

If you haven't received a 190 invitation, consider regional pathways. Regional nomination adds 15 points and has lower score thresholds.

5. Include Your Partner's Skills

If your partner meets the skills and English requirements, this adds 10 points to your claim.

6. Time Your Age Band

Age points decrease at 33 and again at 40 and 45. If you're approaching a birthday, timing your EOI submission matters.

7. Pursue an Australian Qualification

Completing a degree or trade qualification in Australia adds 5 bonus points on top of your base education score.

8. Diversify State Nominations

Submit EOIs to multiple states for 190 nomination simultaneously. Different states have different occupation priorities.