CELPIP vs PTE for Australian PR: Which Test Gets You More Points?
By Megan · Scores and immigration · Published · 3 min read
PTE Academic has long been the most popular test for Australian PR, but on 7 August 2025 its score lines went up, especially in Speaking, and CELPIP-General became an accepted alternative. For the 189, 190 and 491 visas, where English is worth up to 20 points, the two tests now ask for very different things. This post compares them on points alone. Scores come from Home Affairs' published instrument (LIN 25/016) at the time of writing; confirm the current rules on the Home Affairs website.
Is CELPIP or PTE better for Australian PR?
CELPIP tends to suit people whose Speaking holds them back on PTE, and PTE tends to suit people whose Writing is their weak skill. PTE's highest line is in Speaking; CELPIP's is in Writing.
What CELPIP and PTE scores do I need for 10 and 20 points?
Proficient English (10 points) needs PTE 58 / 59 / 69 / 76 or CELPIP 9 / 8 / 10 / 8. Superior English (20 points) needs PTE 69 / 70 / 85 / 88 or CELPIP 10 / 10 / 12 / 10 (Listening / Reading / Writing / Speaking).
| English level | Points | PTE Academic | CELPIP-General |
|---|---|---|---|
| Competent | 0 (meets the minimum) | 47 / 48 / 51 / 54 | 7 / 7 / 7 / 7 |
| Proficient | 10 | 58 / 59 / 69 / 76 | 9 / 8 / 10 / 8 |
| Superior | 20 | 69 / 70 / 85 / 88 | 10 / 10 / 12 / 10 |
Which test is harder to score Proficient on?
For a weak speaker, PTE: Speaking 76 is its hardest Proficient line. For a weak writer, CELPIP: Writing 10 out of 12 is its hardest. Reading and Listening are rarely what separates the two.
| Your profile | Likely better fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| PTE Speaking stuck in the 60s, Writing strong | CELPIP | Speaking needs 8 out of 12; Writing is your strength |
| PTE Writing below 69, Speaking fine | PTE | CELPIP Writing 10 is usually harder still |
| Already within a few points in PTE | PTE | Another focused attempt is quicker than learning a new test |
| Valid PTE result from before 7 August 2025 with the points you need | PTE | Use it under the old lines while it is valid |
How is each test scored?
PTE Academic is scored mainly by automated systems, with human review of some Speaking responses since August 2025. CELPIP Writing and Speaking are scored by trained human raters, and Listening and Reading are multiple choice.
That changes how you prepare. PTE rewards precise performance on short, fast tasks; CELPIP rewards relevant, organised and natural answers to everyday situations, so fixed templates help less.
Which test is better for Superior English and 20 points?
Neither is easy. PTE Superior needs 88 in Speaking and 85 in Writing; CELPIP Superior needs a perfect 12 in Writing. If your Writing is excellent but your Speaking is not, CELPIP is the more realistic route to 20 points.
What else differs between CELPIP and PTE in Australia?
- Centres: PTE has many more centres and dates in Australia; CELPIP is offered in the major cities.
- Length: CELPIP takes about three hours in one sitting; PTE Academic is shorter.
- Content: CELPIP uses everyday Canadian English; PTE Academic uses academic topics and a range of accents.
- At home: neither can be taken at home for an Australian visa.
How do I decide between CELPIP and PTE for PR?
Compare your weakest skill on each test with that test's line for the level you need. If your PTE Speaking is the gap and your Writing is strong, try a timed CELPIP practice test before you book.
Frequently asked questions
Do CELPIP and PTE give the same PR points?
Yes. The points come from the English level you reach, Competent, Proficient or Superior, whichever accepted test you used.
Is PTE Core accepted for Australia?
No. Australia accepts PTE Academic. PTE Core is Pearson's test for Canadian immigration.
Keep reading
CELPass is an independent practice platform and is not affiliated with Paragon Testing Enterprises. CELPIP is a trademark of Paragon Testing Enterprises. Check the official CELPIP website and IRCC for current test rules and requirements.