Planning your move to Australia? You’re probably using the PR points calculator to check if you qualify. But here’s the thing – many applicants are shocked when their official score differs from their self-assessment. In this guide, we’ll reveal the most common mistakes people make and how you can avoid them.

The Hidden Complexities of Recent System Changes

The Australian immigration system is constantly evolving, and keeping track of these changes is crucial for accurate points calculation1. In 2024, several key updates have affected how points are awarded, such as new regional occupation lists and modified skill assessment requirements, which has caused many applicants to use outdated information for their calculations1.For example, many applicants don’t realize that work experience points are now calculated differently for some occupations1. The system has become more stringent about matching your work experience exactly to your nominated occupation, and even a slight mismatch in job duties can result in fewer points than expected1.

Qualification Assessment: The Most Common Point of Failure

A significant misconception arises from educational qualifications assessment, where many applicants assume their overseas degrees automatically equate to Australian qualifications1. This is often where things go wrong, as having a Master’s degree does not guarantee it will be recognized at the same level in Australia1.Here’s what trips up most applicants:

• Counting incomplete qualifications1
• Including qualifications without proper documentation1
• Assuming all fields of study are treated equally1
• Not getting their skills assessed before calculating points1

The Work Experience Calculation Trap

Another major area where applicants miscalculate is work experience1. The system has specific requirements about what counts as relevant experience, and this is where many get their math wrong1. Some common mistakes include: You might be counting experience that won’t be recognized, such as:

• Part-time work that doesn’t meet the minimum hours requirement1
• Experience gained before completing your qualification1
• Internships or training periods1
• Overlapping work experiences1

English Language Points: More Complex Than You Think

English language points are often miscalculated because applicants don’t understand how the scoring system works across different test types1. Many don’t realize that they need to achieve the minimum score in all components, not just an overall score1.The system is particularly strict about test validity periods1. A high IELTS score from three years ago might not be valid anymore, and you’ll need to retake the test, which catches many applicants off guard during the final stages of their application1.

Partner Points: The Overlooked Factor

While most applicants focus on their own qualifications, they often overlook or miscalculate partner points1. A partner’s contribution to your points score has specific requirements that many miss1. Even if your partner is skilled, they need to meet all the same basic requirements as the primary applicant for their points to count1.

Age Points: Timing Is Everything

Age points are straightforward but timing-sensitive1. What many applicants don’t realize is that age points are calculated at the time of invitation, not at the time of EOI submission1. This means if you’re nearing an age bracket cutoff, you might end up with fewer points than initially calculated1. The age brackets as of January 2025 are as follows1:

The Solution: Double-Check These Critical Areas

To avoid the disappointment of a miscalculated score, focus on these key areas1:

• Get your skills assessment done before counting qualification points1
• Carefully document all work experience with detailed references1
• Keep your English test scores current1
• Check partner qualification requirements thoroughly1
• Factor in processing times when calculating age points1

Remember, immigration officials can only award points based on properly documented claims1. Even if you qualify for certain points, without the right documentation, they won’t be counted in your final score1.Understanding these common pitfalls is your first step toward a successful PR application1. Take your time with the calculations, double-check your documentation, and stay updated with the latest requirements1.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Understanding these common pitfalls is your first step toward a successful PR application. Take your time with the calculations, double-check your documentation, and stay updated with the latest requirements. Your dream of moving to Australia is too important to let miscalculated points stand in your way.

Need help verifying your score? Consider using the official assessment tools on the Department of Home Affairs website, and don’t hesitate to consult with a registered migration agent for complex cases.