Skills Assessment for Non-Australian Degrees: A Step Towards Skilled Migration

Introduction

If you're a professional with qualifications from outside Australia and dreaming of migrating for better career opportunities, a skills assessment is a crucial step in making that dream a reality. This assessment determines whether your education and work experience meet Australian standards for your chosen occupation. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about skills assessments and how to navigate the process smoothly.

What is a skills assessment?

A skills assessment is an official check by a designated authority to see if your education and work experience match Australian standards. The result is important for skilled migration visas like the 189, 190, and 491 visas.

Who Needs a Skills Assessment?

If you're applying for a skilled visa under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program and have non-Australian qualifications, you’ll need a skills assessment. This ensures that your background matches Australian industry standards and makes the visa process smoother.

Key Assessing Authorities

Different occupations have different assessing authorities. Below are some major assessing bodies:

• Australian Computer Society (ACS)—For IT professionals like software engineers and business analysts.
• Engineers Australia (EA)—For engineers across various fields (civil, mechanical, electrical, etc.).
• VETASSESS—For general professionals like HR, marketing, and management specialists.
• CPA Australia, CAANZ, IPA—For Accountants.
• Australian Institute of Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) – For Teachers.
• Trades Recognition Australia (TRA)—For trade occupations such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters.

Steps to Get Your Skills Assessed

Each assessing authority has its own process, but the general steps include:

1. Choose the Right Occupation
2. Gather the Required Documents
3. Submit Your Application
4. Wait for the Outcome

Tips for a Successful Skills Assessment

• Ensure your qualifications meet Australian standards— Some degrees might require extra verification.
• Provide clear and detailed proof of work experience— Highlight your responsibilities, projects, and key skills.
• Follow the guidelines of your assessing authority carefully—each organization has its own specific requirements.
• Seek expert help if needed – A migration agent or consultant can guide you through complex cases.

Conclusion

Getting your skills assessed is a major step toward building your future in Australia. By understanding the process, choosing the right assessing authority, and preparing your documents carefully, you can improve your chances of success. If you're ready to take the next step in your migration journey, start your skills assessment process today!