Engineering skill assessment is a formal process required for engineers who wish to gain employment or work in Australia. This process facilitates accreditation of the Australian standard professional and educational qualifications to practicing engineers mainly those from overseas. The institution that is lawfully entitled to regulate engineering professionals in Australia is Engineers Australia. Engineers Australia evaluates the competency, expertise, and experience of all aspirants to ensure they are prepared enough to progress in the engineering industry.
At Grace International, we have more information on how to prepare for these tests and detailed instructions on how to select the right path depending on the level of education. The services we offer include guidance on Engineers Australia processes, and document writing, as well as guaranteeing the completeness of all related aspects such as the CDR.
Requiring a four-year engineering degree, Professional Engineers hold advanced knowledge in theory and practice. They manage complex projects, devise innovative solutions, and oversee engineering operations.
Technologists usually possess a three-year engineering degree, focusing on specialized technical applications. They assist Professional Engineers in various projects, often managing practical tasks.
Engineering Associates hold a two-year engineering diploma or equivalent. Their work supports engineers by providing technical assistance and performing clearly defined tasks.
(For migration purpose only)
This role is reserved for engineers with significant managerial experience, requiring applicants to demonstrate leadership in overseeing engineering projects and managing teams.
Professionals listed under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) Code by Engineers Australia must complete a skill assessment if they intend to work or migrate to Australia. This requirement ensures that the applicant’s qualifications and skills align with Australian standards and are fit for the country’s engineering sector.
Grace International also highlights the importance of choosing the correct pathway, as Engineers Australia provides multiple options to suit diverse educational backgrounds:
Typical occupations requiring skill assessments include:
Additional roles are recognized as per the ANZSCO Code, aligning with Australian standards and validating engineering expertise.
Applicants need an engineering degree, diploma, or equivalent qualification matching their occupational category.
You must have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent senior secondary school qualification with a minimum average of sixty-five percent.
(Note: You may be required to take the Foundation Study Program if you get admitted under equivalent qualifications.)
A score of at least twenty-five in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) Units 3 and 4 in Mathematical Methods (CAS) or higher or equivalent course. You will need to complete the English proficiency test, IELTS (Academic), with a minimum overall band of 6.5 and no individual band of less than six.
You need to have completed an Australian or international equivalent bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of two in the required field.
You will need to complete the English proficiency test, IELTS (Academic), with a minimum overall band of 6.5 and no individual band less than six.
Relevant experience aligned with their engineering skills and qualifications is typically required. If you have twelve months or more of related work experience, or if the work experience gives a basis for a Career Episode, you must provide a reference letter from your employer.
Keep in mind that only work experience obtained after completing the certification helping your nominated profession will be accepted. Hence, the work experience you have gained before or during your studies will not be accepted as relevant.
Engineers Australia mandates English proficiency through accepted tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. Applicants who submit an IELTS test result must score at least 6.0 in each of the four modules (speaking, listening, reading, and writing). Grace International advises ensuring these scores meet the required minimums.
Depending on the pathway and occupational category, additional documents or competency assessments may be necessary. These include documents prepared by the related government agencies or other organizations that are not connected or related to your employer, for example, Social Security/Social Insurance Report, Income Tax (Acknowledgment)/Payroll Tax report from the employer, Superfund Contribution Statement, Provident Fund Statement/Retirement contribution reports, Work permit.
The process generally follows these steps:
Applicants begin by verifying eligibility, qualifications, and English proficiency. Grace International offers support with documentation, helping applicants gather materials accurately.
Candidates using the nonaccredited pathway must submit a CDR, highlighting engineering skills through specific project examples.
Some applicants may need an additional knowledge assessment to demonstrate technical competency.
Engineers Australia evaluates applications, providing an assessment result that confirms whether qualifications meet Australian standards.
The fee for skill assessment varies by type. Engineers Australia also offers a fast-track option for expedited processing, available for an additional fee. Grace International advises that applicants consider this if they wish to expedite their application.
The following table enlists some expenses for the skill assessment:
Report of Standard Competency Demonstration | $650.00 ($AUD) |
Standard Competency Demonstration Report + Related Skilled Employment Assessment (+$270 Excl. GST) |
$920.00 ($AUD) |
Standard Competency Demonstration Report + Overseas PhD Assessment (+$205 Excl. GST) |
$855.00 ($AUD) |
Standard Competency Demonstration Report + Related Skilled Employment Assessment (+$270 Excl. GST) + Overseas PhD Assessment (+$205 Excl. GST) |
$1,125.00 ($AUD) |
Fast Track Fee | $250.00 ($AUD) |
Processing times vary based on application complexity, volume, and the chosen pathway. The normal processing time for the skill assessment (non-credited for assessment) is about 16 weeks. Furthermore, when you lodge your application, you have the chance to select the fast-track option. However, you need to pay a fast-track service fee of about AUD 250.00 which will be added to your application.
After you fast-track your application, it will be assigned to a case officer within ten business days. Standard times can range from weeks to months, but Grace International helps ensure documents are complete to prevent delays.
Please note that the Engineers Australia (EA) will not accept the certified copies for an online application. EA only accepts the original color scans of the documents.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Please ensure that the company name is stated on each document mentioned above.
On the other hand, if you were self-employed, then please submit all the documents in the following points:
Completing a skill assessment is crucial for engineers seeking Australian employment or residency. Grace International provides consulting support throughout the process, offering expert guidance in pathway selection, document preparation, and compliance with Engineers Australia standards.
Don’t miss out on the chance to build your engineering future in Australia. Contact Grace International Education and Migration today to embark on your journey to a brighter tomorrow.