Education & Travel

Your 2025 Guide: How to Apply for PTE and Study in Australia

A step-by-step guide for Indian students on acing the PTE exam and navigating the Australian student visa process.

September 18, 2025
The iconic Sydney Opera House, a symbol of the educational and cultural opportunities awaiting students in Australia.
Prepare for your PTE exam and start your journey to studying in Australia.

Australia has long been a dream destination for Indian students, and for good reason. With its world-class universities, vibrant cities, and excellent quality of life, it offers an unparalleled educational experience. However, the journey to studying Down Under involves two critical steps: proving your English proficiency with the PTE exam and securing an Australian student visa. This guide will walk you through both processes, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your academic adventure in 2025.

What is the PTE Academic Exam?

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic is a computer-based English language test trusted by universities, colleges, and governments worldwide, including the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Unlike other tests, PTE uses AI-powered scoring to provide fast and unbiased results, typically within 48 hours. For Indian students, it has become a popular choice due to its convenience and widespread acceptance across Australian institutions.

The exam is divided into three sections:

  • Speaking & Writing: This combined section tests your ability to produce spoken and written English through tasks like reading aloud, repeating sentences, and writing summaries.
  • Reading: Here, you’ll tackle multiple-choice questions, re-order paragraphs, and fill in the blanks to demonstrate your reading comprehension.
  • Listening: This section involves summarizing spoken text, highlighting incorrect words, and writing from dictation.

How to Apply for the PTE Exam in India

Registering for the PTE exam is a straightforward online process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

  1. Create a Pearson VUE Account: Visit the official Pearson PTE website and create a personal account. Make sure the name you register with exactly matches the name on your passport, as this is the primary ID you’ll need on test day.
  2. Find a Test Center and Date: Once your account is set up, you can search for PTE test centers near you. Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai have multiple centers. Choose a date and time that works for you, but be sure to book in advance, as slots can fill up quickly.
  3. Schedule and Pay: After selecting your slot, proceed to the payment page. The standard fee for the PTE Academic exam in India is ₹17,000 (as of late 2025, but always check the official site for the latest fees). Payment can be made using a credit or debit card.
  4. Receive Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email with your test details, including the center address and instructions for test day.

Applying for Your Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)

With your PTE scores in hand, the next step is to apply for the Australian Student Visa (subclass 500). This visa allows you to live and study in Australia for the duration of your course. Here are the key requirements:

1. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Before you can apply for a visa, you must be accepted into a course registered under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). Once you accept your offer and pay the tuition deposit, your university will issue a CoE, which is essential for your visa application.

2. PTE Score Requirements

For a student visa, you generally need a minimum overall PTE score of 50. However, most universities require a higher score, typically between 58 and 65 for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Always check the specific requirements of your chosen institution.

3. Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Statement

The GTE statement is a crucial part of your application. It’s a personal essay where you must convince the immigration authorities that you genuinely intend to study in Australia temporarily and will return to India after your studies. Your statement should cover your reasons for choosing Australia, your specific course, and how it aligns with your future career plans.

4. Proof of Funds

You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs for at least the first 12 months of your stay. This is critical to assure the Australian government that you can support yourself financially.

5. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

It is mandatory for all international students to have OSHC for the entire duration of their visa. This health insurance covers medical and hospital care while you are in Australia.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Prepare for the PTE: Don't underestimate the exam. Use official PTE practice materials and take mock tests to familiarize yourself with the format and timing.
  • Organize Your Documents: Create a checklist of all required documents, including your passport, CoE, academic transcripts, and financial statements. Having everything in order will make the application process much smoother.
  • Be Honest in Your GTE: Write a clear and sincere GTE statement. Avoid generic answers and focus on your personal story and ambitions.

Applying to study in Australia is an exciting journey. By carefully preparing for the PTE exam and diligently completing your visa application, you can turn your dream into a reality. At Kaagaz Mitra, we simplify complex paperwork so you can focus on what matters most—your future.