Finished your studies in Australia?
Thinking about staying to work, gain experience—or apply for permanent residency later?
Before you rush into your Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa application, there’s a critical step you shouldn’t overlook: your skills assessment.
Whether you're an engineering graduate, a nurse, an ICT professional, or a trade-qualified student, getting your skills assessed early can shape your migration future. It’s not just a box to tick—it could be your ticket to staying in Australia long-term.
What Is a Skills Assessment?
A skills assessment is an official evaluation that confirms your qualifications and/or work experience meet the standards of your nominated occupation in Australia. It’s done by a relevant assessing authority, depending on your occupation.
For example:
- Engineers Australia assesses engineering professionals.
- AHPRA or ANMAC assess healthcare workers and nurses.
- TRA (Trades Recognition Australia) handles assessments for trades such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work.
- ACS (Australian Computer Society) is the authority for IT professionals.
A positive skills assessment is often required for visas like:
- The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) under the Graduate Work stream
- Skilled migration visas such as the subclass 189, 190, or 491
- Employer-sponsored options like the subclass 482 and 186
Why Do 485 Visa Applicants Need a Skills Assessment?
If you’re applying under the Graduate Work stream of the 485 visa (which is for international graduates of trade courses, diplomas, or other non-university qualifications), a valid skills assessment is mandatory. It must confirm that your skills align with an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Even for students applying under the Post-Study Work stream, where a skills assessment isn’t initially required, planning ahead is essential. If you intend to transition to permanent residency via skilled migration, you’ll need a positive skills assessment later. Delaying could lead to missed opportunities or tight timelines.
Timing Is Everything: When Should You Apply?
A common mistake students make is waiting too long to start the skills assessment process. Some assessing bodies have long processing times or require additional documents like:
- Proof of relevant work experience
- IELTS, PTE, or other English test results
- Academic transcripts and unit outlines
- Statutory declarations or employer references
If you wait until after your student visa expires, it may be too late. You must have applied for the 485 visa within 6 months of completing your course, and some students don’t realise the skills assessment needs to be lodged (or in some cases, approved) within that time frame too.
What If You Don’t Meet the Criteria Yet?
Some students worry they don’t yet qualify for a full assessment due to limited work experience or unclear academic equivalence. Depending on the occupation and the assessing body, you may still be able to obtain:
- Provisional or graduate skills assessments, specifically designed for 485 applicants.
- Pathway programs that allow you to gain the missing experience or qualifications while on the 485 visa.
This is where expert guidance can be the difference between success and uncertainty.
How NB Migration Law Can Help
At NB Migration Law, we support international students across Australia with strategic migration planning—starting with your skills assessment. Our team of registered migration lawyers will:
✅ Identify the right occupation and assessment pathway based on your course and career goals
✅ Advise you on eligibility and prepare your documentation thoroughly
✅ Liaise with assessing authorities to resolve issues or respond to requests
✅ Ensure your 485 visa application is timed and structured correctly
✅ Provide a long-term migration roadmap, from temporary to permanent residency
We understand that no two students are the same. Whether you're a trade graduate, a university student, or completing a professional year, we’ll help you make informed decisions to protect your future in Australia.
Planning to Stay and Work in Australia After Graduation?
Don’t wait until the last minute. Start your skills assessment process now and give yourself the best chance at success.
Book your free consultation with the team at NB Migration Law and get personalised advice from migration lawyers who know the student journey inside and out.