Planning to migrate to Australia in 2026 for Permanent Residency (PR), a study visa, citizenship, or a nursing career? The right English test can make or break your application. The three main options are PTE Academic (and PTE Core in some cases), IELTS, and NAATI CCL (for extra points). Below is a clear, to-the-point comparison to help you choose the best one for your goals.
1. Overview of Each Test
PTE Academic / PTE Core
PTE is a fully computer-based, AI-scored exam that tests Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening in one 2-hour session. PTE Academic is for university admissions, skilled migration, and professional registration. PTE Core focuses on everyday English and is accepted for some immigration pathways (e.g., certain Australian or Canadian programs). Results come in 1–2 days, making it the fastest option.
IELTS (Academic or General Training)
IELTS is available in paper-based or computer-delivered format with a face-to-face Speaking interview (or video call in some locations). It assesses Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking over 2 hours 45 minutes. Academic version suits study and professional registration; General Training is for migration and work. Results take 3–13 days.
NAATI CCL
NAATI Credentialed Community Language test is not a full English proficiency exam. It checks your ability to interpret between English and another language (LOTE) in community situations like health, legal, and education. The test is online, lasts about 20–30 minutes per dialogue, and results take 8–10 weeks. It gives 5 extra PR points but cannot replace PTE or IELTS for base English requirements.
2. Score Requirements for Australian Visas & Nursing (2026)
Australia uses these levels for points-tested skilled migration visas (189, 190, 491), student visas (Subclass 500), and AHPRA nursing registration:
| Level | PTE (each skill / overall) | IELTS (each band) | PR Points | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Competent | 50 (no skill below 50) | 6.0 | 0 | Minimum for most visas |
| Proficient | 65 (no skill below 58–65) | 7.0 | +10 | Strong boost for PR invitations |
| Superior | 79 (no skill below 69–79) | 8.0 | +20 | Highest language points for competitive EOI |
| Nursing (AHPRA) | 65+ in each skill | 7.0 each (Writing 6.5 allowed in some cases) | — | Mandatory for registration |
NAATI CCL adds +5 points if passed, but you still need competent English via PTE or IELTS.
3. Head-to-Head Comparison (2026 Reality)
Speed & Convenience
- PTE: Fastest results (1–48 hours), fully computer-based, no human bias in scoring.
- IELTS: Slower (3–13 days), Speaking test requires appointment.
- NAATI CCL: Longest wait (8–10 weeks). Winner: PTE for urgent deadlines (student visa, job offers, PR invitations).
Ease of Scoring High
- PTE: Predictable tasks (Repeat Sentence, Describe Image, Essay templates), AI scoring rewards clear pronunciation and fluency. Many students find it easier to hit 79+ after practice.
- IELTS: Human examiners can be subjective in Speaking/Writing; harder to consistently get 8.0.
- NAATI CCL: Moderate difficulty if you are fluent in both languages; focuses on accuracy, not speed. Winner: PTE for most students aiming for high scores quickly.
Acceptance in Australia All three are accepted by the Department of Home Affairs for visas. PTE and IELTS are accepted by AHPRA for nursing registration. NAATI CCL is only for migration points, not standalone English proof.
Cost & Availability
- PTE: ~AUD 385–410, frequent test dates, many centres in Pakistan/India.
- IELTS: ~AUD 395–410, similar availability.
- NAATI CCL: ~AUD 800, online from home.
- Winner: Similar cost, but PTE wins on speed and retake flexibility.
4. Which Test Should You Choose in 2026?
Best for Australian PR (Skilled Migration) PTE Academic 79+ (+20 points) + NAATI CCL (+5 points) = maximum language boost (up to +25 points total). This combo is the fastest and most reliable for getting an invitation in competitive rounds.
Best for Study Visa (Subclass 500) PTE Academic – quicker results and easier high scores help meet university and visa deadlines.
Best for Nursing Registration (AHPRA/NMBA) PTE Academic (65+ each skill) – consistent scoring makes it easier to meet the strict per-skill requirement compared to IELTS 7.0 across all bands.
Best for Bilingual Applicants Take PTE/IELTS first for base English, then add NAATI CCL for the extra 5 points. It’s low-risk and high-reward if you speak a community language fluently.
5. How Learn With Hafiz Helps You Win First Attempt
No matter which test you choose, Learn With Hafiz delivers results with expert online coaching tailored for students from Pakistan and India. Led by Master Trainer Hafiz Suliman Munawar, you get:
- Personalized strategies and structured study plans
- Unlimited AI-powered mock tests and real exam simulations
- Detailed feedback on every task
- Continuous support until you succeed
- Free trial class + free scorecard analysis
Hundreds of students have achieved 79+ in PTE, Band 8+ in IELTS, NAATI pass, and their dream Australian PR, study visa, or nursing registration with us.