If you are a healthcare professional applying for AHPRA registration, you may believe that you must achieve the required PTE Academic score in a single attempt.
👉 Did you know that AHPRA allows English language test results from two PTE sittings to be considered when meeting the English language requirement? This rule is often misunderstood, yet it provides a valuable second chance for nurses, midwives, and other health professionals aiming to register in Australia.
What Is AHPRA’s English Language Requirement?
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) requires applicants to meet the English Language Skills Registration Standard before registration can be approved.
PTE Academic is one of the accepted English tests for AHPRA across most health professions.
Minimum PTE Academic Requirements for AHPRA (Single Sitting)
For most healthcare professions, the commonly accepted PTE Academic scores are:
● Overall score: 66
● Listening: 66
● Reading: 66
● Speaking: 66
● Writing: 56
✅ Achieving these scores in one sitting satisfies the English language requirement for AHPRA registration.
(Note: Final assessment is always based on the current AHPRA English Language Skills Registration Standard and the relevant National Board.)
Can You Use Two PTE Test Sittings for AHPRA?
Yes. AHPRA allows English test results from up to two PTE sittings to be used together, provided that:
● Both tests are taken within 12 months
● The scores meet the minimum requirements set by AHPRA
● The results together demonstrate that the English language standard is met
This pathway is designed for candidates who narrowly miss the required score in one or two skills.
Is There a Limit on PTE Attempts for AHPRA?
❌ No. AHPRA does not limit the number of times you can sit the PTE exam.
You may:
● Attempt PTE as many times as needed
● Submit the most relevant valid results with your application
● Use up to two sittings if combining scores
A single low score does not affect future eligibility.
Why the Two-Sitting Rule Matters for AHPRA Applicants
Many IPT Brisbane students:
● Miss Writing by a few points
● Perform well in Speaking and Listening but fall short in Reading
● Improve a specific weak skill significantly in the second attempt
Instead of repeating full preparation, targeted skill improvement leads to faster and more cost-effective success.
PTE for AHPRA Preparation at IPT Brisbane
At IPT Brisbane, we specialise in PTE Academic preparation for healthcare professionals.
We offer:
● Skill-specific PTE study plans
● Targeted preparation for second sittings
● Strategies aligned with AHPRA scoring standards
● Individual feedback focused on weak modules
Our approach is simple: fewer attempts, smarter preparation, better results.
Final Advice for AHPRA Applicants
If you are close to meeting your PTE requirement:
● Do not panic
● Do not restart preparation from scratch
● Use AHPRA’s two-sitting allowance strategically
With the right guidance, your second PTE attempt can secure your AHPRA registration.
📍 Preparing for PTE for AHPRA in Brisbane?
Get expert guidance at IPT Brisbane and avoid costly mistakes in your registration journey.