Rules, comparisons and data

Is a PTE score of 30 good?

PTE 30 is a basic level. It clears Australia's Functional English, which needs an overall 24 on PTE Academic tests from 7 August 2025, but it is below the 36–50 Pearson says foundation courses typically ask for. On Pearson's IELTS table, an overall 30 sits in the 24–30 range it links to IELTS 4.5.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • PTE
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

What a score of 30 means

Pearson places 30 at the bottom of its 30–42 band. At this level a test taker can understand sentences and frequently used expressions on everyday topics such as personal details, shopping and work, and can handle simple, routine exchanges (Pearson).

On Pearson's alignment with IELTS Academic, overall 24–30 matches IELTS 4.5 and 31–38 matches IELTS 5.0 (Score Guide). Pearson adds that any prediction from one test to another carries measurement error.

Where PTE 30 is enough

Home Affairs' Functional English needs an overall PTE Academic score of at least 24 for tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, so 30 meets it. The result must be from the 12 months before your visa application (Home Affairs). Older tests needed 30; Home Affairs says those results could be used until 6 August 2026 inclusive, depending on the visa.

Competent English is out of reach at 30: it needs at least 47 listening, 48 reading, 51 writing and 54 speaking (Home Affairs).

UseRequirementDoes 30 meet it?
Australian Functional English (tests from 7 Aug 2025)Overall 24Yes
Australian Competent English (tests from 7 Aug 2025)47 L, 48 R, 51 W, 54 SNo
Foundation course (Pearson's typical range)36–50 overallNo
Undergraduate degree (Pearson's typical range)51–60 overallNo

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Moving up from 30

Your Score Report includes a Skills Profile with recommendations for the areas where you scored lowest (Pearson help centre). You can rebook once you have your score, up to 12 tests in a 12-month window (retake policy).

Frequently asked questions

Is PTE 30 enough for Functional English?+

Yes, for tests from 7 August 2025, which need an overall 24. The result must be from the 12 months before you apply.

What IELTS band is PTE 30?+

Pearson's table puts overall 24–30 at IELTS 4.5.

Can I get into a foundation course with PTE 30?+

Pearson's typical foundation range starts at 36, so 30 is usually below it. Check your provider's own page.

Is PTE 30 Competent English?+

No. Competent needs 47 listening, 48 reading, 51 writing and 54 speaking.

Keep reading

Related

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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