English is the cheapest 10–20 points on your visa.
Proficient English (7.0 in each skill) is worth 10 points; Superior English (8.0 in each) is worth 20. Writing is almost always the skill standing between you and those points.
What you need · Proficient English (points test)
Competent = 6.0 each (eligibility, 0 points). Proficient = 7.0 each (10 points). Superior = 8.0 each (20 points). Academic or General Training is accepted for the points test. Note: AHPRA nursing registration separately requires 7.0 in each skill with no concession.
Why Writing is the wall
- Gaining language points is far cheaper than waiting for another year of skilled work experience.
- A single 6.5 in Writing drops you from Proficient to Competent — from 10 points to 0.
- Each retake costs ~$250 and delays your Expression of Interest.
If you're sitting at 6.5 in Writing with 7.0+ elsewhere, you're one criterion away from 10 points — and potentially in reach of 20 if you can push to 8.0 across the board.
The Band 7 Writing Playbook pinpoints the criterion capping you and drills it with a repeatable structure and a 14-day plan. Academic or General Training — the Writing skill is identical.
Most candidates here are stuck on Writing. That 0.5 band is exactly what we're built to close.
Turn Writing 6.5 into 7.0 — and 0 points into 10.
Instant access · works for Academic & General Training
Questions
Do I need IELTS Academic or General Training for Australian PR points?
Either is accepted for the migration points test. If you also need university admission or certain registrations you may need Academic — but for the points test alone, both count.
What's the difference between Proficient and Superior English?
Proficient English is 7.0 in each of the four skills (10 points). Superior English is 8.0 in each (20 points). The skill most applicants need to lift for either is Writing.
What do nurses need for AHPRA in Australia?
AHPRA registration requires IELTS Academic 7.0 in each of the four skills with no Writing concession — distinct from the migration points test. Writing 7.0 is mandatory there.
Educational study material only — not immigration, legal or career advice. Verify current requirements with the official body. Read the full Australian PR requirements guide →