Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Two ways your score reaches Home Affairs
Pearson's scoring help describes both routes. Neither involves posting or emailing a PDF.
If you allocated scores to the DHA at booking but did not get the score you wanted, Pearson says the DHA cannot review those scores unless you have already submitted your application. When you lodge, you name the result you want reviewed by its Test Registration ID.
The Registration ID is a 9-digit number printed under your name on the Score Report (Pearson); it also appears on your booking confirmation (Pearson).
| Route | When | What you do |
|---|---|---|
| Allocate at booking | When you book the test | Tick the DHA box; that test's score is sent automatically |
| Quote the Registration ID | When you lodge your visa application | Enter the Test Registration ID of the result you want reviewed |
Which PTE test Home Affairs accepts
For tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, the Home Affairs English language page lists Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) among the approved tests, taken at a secure test centre. PTE Core is not on the list.
Home Affairs does not accept tests delivered completely online (remote-proctored or at-home). Results from PTE Academic taken on or before 6 August 2025 may be used until 6 August 2028 inclusive, depending on the visa.
Need an English test for an Australian visa?
Home Affairs accepts PTE Academic and IELTS, among other tests. Take a free mock and see where you would land.
Free PTE Academic mock →Practise before you book: free PTE mock test, PTE predictions, PTE Core practice test and PTE to IELTS converter.
How old the score can be
Pearson's Test Taker Handbook says a Score Report is valid for two years from the test date and scores should be assigned within two years, but the DHA accepts scores assigned up to three years after the test date.
Home Affairs says to check the required scores, the evidence you must provide and the test timeframes on the eligibility page of your visa subclass (Home Affairs). See how long a PTE score is valid for the rules by visa and organisation.
Pearson updates its policies from time to time. Check the linked page before you act. This guide is general information, not official PTE advice.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to tick the DHA box when booking PTE?+
No. Ticking it sends that test's score automatically. Without it, you include the Test Registration ID in your visa application so Home Affairs can review the result.
Where do I find my PTE Test Registration ID?+
On your booking confirmation and your Score Report, where Pearson prints it as a 9-digit number under your name.
Does Home Affairs accept PTE Core?+
No. The Home Affairs list of approved tests names PTE Academic, not PTE Core.
Can I send my PTE score to Home Affairs and to universities?+
Yes. Sending scores to institutions through myPTE is free and unlimited, and it is separate from the DHA allocation.
Is an at-home PTE accepted for an Australian visa?+
Home Affairs does not accept fully online tests. PTE Academic is taken at a secure Pearson test centre, which is what it requires.
Keep reading
Related
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- PTE score validity
- Is PTE Core accepted in Australia?
- PTE 65 each for Australia PR
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Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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