With Australia’s world class ranked universities, career opportunities, and friendly immigration policies, it is no wonder Australia is considered a dream destination for international students. One of the easiest ways to go from student to permanent resident is to complete one of the PR list courses in Australia.
These courses correspond with Australia’s skilled occupation list which outlines the most needed professions. Picking the correct pathway PR course in Australia boosts your chances of applying for the 189, 190, or 491 visas and ensures your future in Australia.
What Are PR List Courses in Australia?
PR list courses pertain to study programs which are directly related to occupations listed on the following:
- Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
- Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
- Regional Occupation List (ROL)
Completing a course that aligns with these lists significantly increases your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for PR in Australia.
Top 10 PR Courses in Australia in 2025
1. Nursing
- Popular Roles: Enrolled Nurse, Registered Nurse (Aged Care, Community Health)
- PR Pathway: MLTSSL
- Description:Nursing is in shortage across all Australian states, and offers faster-skilled assessment pathways along with work-integrated placements.
- Bonus: High employability and sponsorship chances.
2. Information Technology (IT)
- Popular Roles: Software Developer, Cyber Security Analyst, Network Engineer
- PR Pathway: MLTSSL
- Description: IT professionals are currently in deficit due to the fast-paced digital transformation and increasing need for technology infrastructure.
- Courses: Bachelor/Master in IT, Cybersecurity, Computer Science
3. Engineering
- Popular Roles: Civil Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer
- PR Pathway: MLTSSL
- Description: Job opportunities in engineering have expanded due to infrastructure and renewable energy projects across Australia.
4. Social Work
- Popular Roles: Social Worker, Community Support Officer
- PR Pathway: MLTSSL
- Description: Social workers, particularly in rural areas, are becoming increasingly prioritized due to a growing focus on social health and development.
5. Teaching and Education
- Popular Roles: Early Childhood Teacher, Secondary School Teacher
- PR Pathway: MLTSSL, STSOL
- Description: Australia encounters a particular deficit in qualified science and mathematics teachers as well as educators based in country schools.
6. Trade Courses
- Popular Roles: Carpenter, Electrician, Automotive Technician, Plumber
- PR Pathway: STSOL/ROL (varies by occupation)
- Description: In regional areas, there is spiking demand for these practical and hands-on positions. Often, these are placed after completion of trade courses.
7. Accounting
- Popular Roles: Management Accountant, External Auditor
- PR Pathway: MLTSSL
- Description: While competitive, accounting still holds PR potential if supported by memberships like CPA, CA, or IPA.
8. Hospitality and Cookery
- Popular Roles: Chef, Pastry Cook
- PR Pathway: STSOL
- Description: The increasing tourism and food sectors in Australia have maintained a steady need for cooks and kitchen personnel.
9. Medical and Health Sciences
- Popular Roles: Physiotherapist, Medical Laboratory Scientist, Radiographer
- PR Pathway: MLTSSL
- Description: In those roles, gaining permanent residence becomes relatively easy and offers good salaries in both metropolitan and regional areas.
10. Agriculture and Environmental Science
- Popular Roles: Agricultural Scientist, Environmental Consultant
- PR Pathway: STSOL/ROL
- Description: They are also increasingly receiving government focus due to their importance to sustainability and food security.
If you want to learn about how you can get PR in Australia, then we have an entire blog on How to Get PR in Australia as an International Student.
PR Points Comparison Table by Occupation
| Course/Field | Occupation List | Estimated PR Points Needed | Priority Regions |
| Nursing | MLTSSL | 65–70 points | All states |
| IT | MLTSSL | 65–70 points | NSW, VIC, ACT |
| Engineering | MLTSSL | 65–70 points | WA, QLD, NSW |
| Social Work | MLTSSL | 65+ points | Regional areas preferred |
| Education | STSOL/MLTSSL | 60–70 points | SA, NT, TAS |
| Trades (e.g., Electrician) | STSOL/ROL | 60+ points | QLD, WA, regional zones |
| Accounting | MLTSSL | 75+ points (competitive) | ACT, VIC |
| Cookery & Hospitality | STSOL | 60+ points | Regional areas |
| Health Sciences | MLTSSL | 65–70 points | Nationwide |
| Agriculture | STSOL/ROL | 60–65 points | Rural/regional areas |
If you want information about the latest working hours and rules regarding student visa in Australia, you can refer to Student Visa Working Hours in Australia 2025.
State-Wise Demand for PR Courses in Australia
| State/Territory | High-Demand PR Courses |
| New South Wales (NSW) | IT, Nursing, Engineering |
| Victoria (VIC) | Accounting, IT, Social Work |
| Queensland (QLD) | Trade Courses, Agriculture, Engineering |
| South Australia (SA) | Hospitality, Early Childhood Education |
| Western Australia (WA) | Engineering, Nursing, Mining-related courses |
| Tasmania (TAS) | Community Services, Agriculture |
| Northern Territory (NT) | Hospitality, Social Work, Trades |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) | IT, Accounting, Education |
Diploma Courses for PR in Australia
If you are considering a skill-focused diploma, or a shorter course, think about:
- Diploma of Nursing
- Certificate III in Carpentry
- Diploma of Community Services
- Diploma in Hospitality Management
- Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Completion of these courses could make you eligible for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) or state nomination streams of skilled migration for PR in Australia.
Also read our latest blog on UK Student Visa Fee 2025.
FAQs
1. What are PR list courses in Australia?
These are the courses which are tailored to specific occupations in Australia’s skilled occupation lists (MLTSSL, STSOL, ROL) which will grant you PR eligibility.
2. Which course is best for PR in Australia?
Australia has a number of high PR focusing courses such as nursing, IT, engineering, and trade skills.
3. Do diploma courses lead to PR in Australia?
Yes, a number of diploma courses like cookery, carpentry, and community services have a direct link to high demand occupations, providing you the skilled PR in Australia.
4. Are regional courses better for PR?
Absolutely! Studying and working in these areas can offer additional PR points and prioritized processing.
5. Can I get PR directly after graduation?
Usually, you will get a Temporary Graduate Visa (485) first, gain local work experience, then apply for PR.
Conclusion
Selecting the proper PR List Course in Australia can greatly increase your chances of getting permanent residency. From pursuing a degree in nursing or information technology to engineering and even trade certifications, as long as you choose a field of study that is in demand, you’ll be heading in the right direction.
Always check that your institution is accredited, look into studying in rural regions for additional PR points, and make sure to keep an eye on visa rule changes. With good planning and the right courses, gaining PR in Australia becomes much more straightforward.
📞 Contact Goodluck Education and Migration today for personalized advice and student support! 📩 Book an appointment with Goodluck Education and Migration today for personalised advice and student support.
