Points calculator for the 189, 190 and 491

Pick your answers and the total updates as you go, with the 190 and 491 nomination points added. Then see how your score compares with the cut-offs in the 15 October 2026 round.

Age when invited

English

Skilled work outside Australia (last 10 years)

Skilled work in Australia (last 10 years)

Highest qualification

Partner

Other points Masters by research or PhD from an Australian institution in a STEM field (2+ years) +10 Meets the Australian study requirement (2 academic years in Australia) +5 Studied in regional Australia (on top of the Australian study requirement) +5 Completed a Professional Year in Australia (accounting, ICT or engineering) +5 NAATI credentialled community language +5

Points test questions

What is the minimum points score?

65 points is the pass mark for the 189, 190 and 491 visas. In practice invitations go to the highest-scoring EOIs in each occupation, so the score you need depends on your occupation and the round. See the latest 189 round for the minimum score invited in each occupation.

How do nomination points work?

A state or territory nomination for the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) adds 5 points. A state or territory nomination, or sponsorship by an eligible relative, for the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) adds 15 points. The 189 has no nomination points.

Why are my work experience points capped?

Points for skilled employment inside and outside Australia are added together but capped at 20. Only employment in your nominated or a closely related occupation, at 20 hours a week or more, in the 10 years before invitation counts.

Is the points test changing?

The government has reviewed the points test and a redesign has been discussed, but this calculator uses the points table currently published by the Department of Home Affairs. We will update it when a new test takes effect.