The Victorian points test is the official point-based ranking mechanism used by the Victorian State Government to assess Registrations of Interest (ROIs) for the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491).
While federal SkillSelect criteria set the baseline eligibility for skilled migration, the Victorian points test ranks submitted ROIs competitively against other candidates within specific priority sectors. Understanding how points are distributed across age, English proficiency, employment, education, and Victorian annual earnings is critical for maximising your selection score.
Dual-System Framework: SkillSelect vs. Victorian Points Test
Victorian state nomination operates under a two-tiered evaluation structure. Applicants must satisfy both independent points frameworks concurrently to be invited to apply for state nomination.
| Feature | Federal SkillSelect Points | Victorian Points Test (VPT) |
| Authority | Department of Home Affairs (Federal) | Live in Melbourne (Victorian State Govt) |
| Purpose | Determines general visa eligibility | Ranks ROIs against competitors for nomination |
| Pass Mark | Fixed minimum of 65 points | No pass mark (Competitive pool ranking) |
| Max Score | Uncapped scale | Maximum total of 950 points |
While reaching 65 points in SkillSelect allows you to lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI), your competitive position for Victorian nomination depends directly on your total score within the Victorian points test.
Detailed Breakdown of the Victorian Points Test Criteria
The maximum attainable score on the Victorian points test scale is 950 points. The assessment evaluates key personal, academic, and professional factors.
1. Age (Maximum 300 Points)
Age is the heavily weighted category in the Victorian Points Test, prioritising younger skilled candidates.
- 18 Years: 265 points
- 19 Years: 282 points
- 20–29 Years: 300 points
- 30 Years: 286 points
- 31 Years: 270 points
- 32 Years: 256 points
- 33 Years: 240 points
- 34 Years: 226 points
- 35 Years: 210 points
- 36 Years: 196 points
- 37 Years: 180 points
- 38 Years: 166 points
- 39 Years: 150 points
- 40 Years: 136 points
- 41 Years: 106 points
- 42 Years: 76 points
- 43 Years: 46 points
- 44 Years: 16 points
2. English Language Level (Maximum 200 Points)
English proficiency significantly influences your ranking under the Victorian points test.
- Competent English (IELTS 6.0 overall with min 6.0 each / PTE 50): 0 points
- Proficient English (IELTS 7.0 overall with min 7.0 each / PTE 65): 100 points
- Superior English (IELTS 8.0 overall with min 8.0 each / PTE 79): 200 points
3. Years of Skilled Experience in Nominated Occupation (Maximum 100 Points)
Points are awarded for post-qualification experience in your nominated skilled occupation.
- 0 Years: 0 points
- 1 Year: 20 points
- 1–3 Years: 40 points
- 3–5 Years: 60 points
- 6–8 Years: 80 points
- More than 8 Years: 100 points
4. Education Level (Maximum 100 Points)
The Victorian points test assigns points based on the highest educational qualification attained.
- Other Qualifications: 25 points
- Bachelor’s and Honours Degree: 50 points
- Master’s Degree: 75 points
- Doctoral Degree (PhD): 100 points
5. Occupation Skill Level (Maximum 50 Points)
Occupational skill levels are categorised according to ANZSCO classifications.
- Skill Level 3 Occupation: 0 points
- Skill Level 2 Occupation: 0 points
- Skill Level 1 Occupation: 50 points
6. Partner’s Skill (Maximum 50 Points)
Partner skill factors are split into two operational categories under the Victorian points test:
- Partner Skill Category A (50 points): Claimed 10 points for Partner Skills in SkillSelect EOI, partner is included in state-nominated visa application, and partner’s occupation is in a current Victorian priority industry.
- Partner Skill Category B (0 points): Single applicants, applicants with an Australian citizen/PR partner, or applicants who do not meet Category A criteria.
Annual Earnings from Skilled Employment in Victoria
Onshore candidates working in Victoria can claim substantial points based on annual base earnings (excluding superannuation) from genuine skilled work (ANZSCO Skill Level 1, 2, or 3) for an employer physically operating in Victoria.
| Annual Earnings (AUD) | VPT Points | Annual Earnings (AUD) | VPT Points |
| Under $80,000 | 0 pts | 130,000–134,999 | 87 pts |
| 80,000–84,999 | 8 pts | 135,000–139,999 | 95 pts |
| 85,000–89,999 | 16 pts | 140,000–144,999 | 103 pts |
| 90,000–94,999 | 24 pts | 145,000–149,999 | 111 pts |
| 95,000–99,999 | 32 pts | 150,000–154,999 | 118 pts |
| 100,000–104,999 | 39 pts | 155,000–159,999 | 126 pts |
| 105,000–109,999 | 47 pts | 160,000–164,999 | 134 pts |
| 110,000–114,999 | 55 pts | 165,000–169,999 | 142 pts |
| 115,000–119,999 | 63 pts | $170,000 and over | 150 pts (Max) |
| 120,000–124,999 | 71 pts | ||
| 125,000–129,999 | 79 pts |
Priority Industries & Program Fees
Registrations of Interest (ROIs) are ranked using the Victorian points test within targeted priority sectors addressing critical labour shortages:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Social Assistance
- Construction
Application Process & Fee Schedule
Non-refundable application fees apply for both the ROI ranking and formal state nomination stages:
| Application Stage | Base Fee (AUD) | Fee Including GST | Validity / Processing Terms |
| Registration of Interest (ROI) | $60 AUD | $66 AUD | Valid for current program year |
| State Nomination Application | $180 AUD | $198 AUD | Lodged upon receiving an official invitation |
Strategic Steps to Maximise Your Victorian Points Test Score
To optimise your competitive ranking under the Victorian points test:
- Target Superior English: Achieving Superior English grants 200 points in the Victorian Points Test alongside 20 points in Federal SkillSelect.
- Verify ANZSCO Classification: Ensure your active employment role is classified under ANZSCO Skill Level 1, 2, or 3 before declaring annual earnings.
- Leverage Partner Qualifications: If applying with a spouse, obtaining a positive Skills Assessment in a Victorian Priority Industry unlocks an additional 50 points under the Victorian points test.
For expert assistance with ROI submissions, SkillSelect EOI management, and point score evaluations, consult the migration team at eduaid Immigration Services.