Australia is one of the most sought-after destinations for skilled migrants. With its strong economy, high living standards, and world-class opportunities, many graduates wonder: Can you apply for Australia PR with just a bachelor’s degree?
The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While a bachelor’s degree is a strong qualification, obtaining permanent residency (PR) involves more than just holding a degree. The Australian government uses a points-based system to assess eligibility, where factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience, and occupation demand also come into play.
Let’s break down what it takes to apply for Australia PR with a bachelor’s degree and explore the different pathways available.
Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) Program is the most common pathway for graduates aiming for PR. To qualify, applicants need to meet a minimum of 65 points under the PR points test.
Here’s how points are awarded:
| Factor | Maximum Points |
|---|---|
| Age (25–32 years) | 30 |
| English Proficiency (Superior IELTS/PTE) | 20 |
| Skilled Employment Experience | 20 |
| Educational Qualification (Bachelor’s/Master’s) | 15 |
| Australian Study Requirement | 5 |
| Regional Study | 5 |
| Partner Skills | 10 |
| NAATI Accreditation | 5 |
| Professional Year in Australia | 5 |
👉 A bachelor’s degree gives you 15 points, but you’ll need additional points from other factors to reach the eligibility threshold.
Unfortunately, a bachelor’s degree alone is not enough to qualify for PR in Australia. While it adds value to your application, you must also:
Be under 45 years old at the time of application.
Have a skilled occupation listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
Prove English proficiency through IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
Submit a positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation.
Accumulate sufficient work experience (Australian or overseas) to boost your points.
So, if you only hold a bachelor’s degree but lack relevant work experience, high English test scores, or an in-demand occupation, your chances of direct PR may be slim.
If you’re wondering how to leverage your degree effectively, here are the most practical PR pathways:
Does not require employer or state sponsorship.
Points-based; must meet the minimum threshold.
Ideal if your occupation is on the MLTSSL.
Requires state or territory nomination.
Provides an extra 5 points towards PR eligibility.
Suited for those with occupations in demand at the state level.
Requires regional nomination.
Offers an additional 15 points.
Applicants must live and work in a designated regional area for at least 3 years before applying for PR.
Available for international students who studied in Australia.
Provides work rights for 18 months to 4 years (depending on qualification).
Can help gain local work experience, which adds more PR points.
If you want to maximize your chances of PR with a bachelor’s degree, here are some tips:
Improve your English score: Achieving a superior score can earn up to 20 points.
Gain work experience: Skilled work experience (especially in Australia) significantly increases points.
Consider postgraduate study: A master’s or doctorate can provide extra points and open more skilled occupation opportunities.
Apply for regional opportunities: Studying or working in regional Australia offers additional PR pathways.
Leverage partner skills: If your partner has skills and qualifications, you may get extra points.
Can I get Australia PR with just a bachelor’s degree and no work experience?
Not likely. You need additional points from English proficiency, state nomination, or regional study to reach the minimum eligibility.
Which bachelor’s degrees are most in demand for PR in Australia?
Engineering, IT, nursing, teaching, and trades are highly sought-after fields listed on the Skilled Occupation Lists.
Is it easier to get PR after studying in Australia with a bachelor’s degree?
Yes. Graduates can apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (485) to gain work experience, which boosts PR eligibility.
Can international students directly apply for PR after bachelor’s?
Not directly. Most need to first apply for a temporary visa (like 485) to build experience and points before applying for PR.
Do I need a master’s degree for PR in Australia?
No, but a master’s degree can improve your chances by awarding higher points and expanding your eligible occupations.
What is the minimum IELTS/PTE score required for PR with a bachelor’s degree?
At least 6.0 in IELTS or equivalent (Competent English) is required, but higher scores give you more points.
So, can you apply for Australia PR with just a bachelor’s degree? The straightforward answer is no — a bachelor’s degree alone isn’t enough. However, it is an essential stepping stone. By combining your degree with high English scores, skilled work experience, and possibly state or regional nomination, you can significantly boost your chances of securing PR in Australia.
If PR in Australia is your long-term goal, start early by aligning your studies and career with in-demand occupations, and aim to strengthen every area of the PR points test. With the right strategy, your bachelor’s degree can indeed open the door to permanent residency.
