ACS Australia Skill Assessment: A Complete Guide for ICT Professionals in 2025

If you're an ICT professional planning to migrate to Australia, one of the most crucial steps in your visa application journey is the ACS Australia skill assessment. Conducted by the Australian Computer Society (ACS), this assessment is mandatory for those applying for skilled visas in IT-related occupations.


In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the ACS skill assessment, including eligibility criteria, required documents, types of assessments, and tips to boost your success in 2025.


What Is the ACS Australia Skill Assessment?


The ACS (Australian Computer Society) is the official assessing authority for ICT occupations in Australia’s skilled migration program. If your nominated occupation is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) under the ICT category, you’ll need to undergo a skills assessment through ACS before applying for a visa such as:

  • Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
  • Subclass 190 – State Nominated Visa
  • Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
  • Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (in some cases)

Who Needs an ACS Skill Assessment?


You need an ACS skill assessment if your occupation is ICT-related, including but not limited to:

  • Software Engineer
  • ICT Business Analyst
  • Computer Network and Systems Engineer
  • Systems Analyst
  • Web Developer
  • Database Administrator
  • ICT Security Specialist

Whether you studied in Australia or overseas, you must prove that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards.


Types of ACS Skill Assessments

ACS offers different types of assessments based on your educational background and work experience:

1. Temporary Graduate (485) Assessment

  • For international students who studied an ICT-related degree in Australia
  • Only valid for Subclass 485 visa (Temporary Graduate)

2. Post-Australian Study Assessment

  • For graduates from Australian universities with relevant work experience
  • Suitable for skilled migration pathways

3. Skills Assessment (General)

  • For overseas qualifications and/or experience
  • Requires matching your degree and experience to your nominated occupation

4. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

  • For applicants without formal ICT qualifications
  • Must demonstrate at least 6 years of ICT work experience
  • Requires submission of RPL report showcasing real-world ICT knowledge

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a positive ACS skills assessment, you generally need:

  • A relevant degree or higher qualification (e.g., Computer Science, IT, Software Engineering)
  • A minimum of 2–8 years of relevant work experience, depending on the type of qualification
  • English language proficiency (IELTS or PTE not required for assessment, but needed for visa)
  • Accurate and verifiable employment references
💡 Tip: Your degree and work experience must closely match the nominated occupation in the ANZSCO code.

Required Documents

To submit your ACS assessment, you’ll need:

  • Passport bio page
  • Degree certificate and transcript
  • Employer reference letters
  • Payslips, tax documents, or bank statements
  • Updated CV/resume
  • RPL report (if applicable)

All documents must be scanned in high quality and in PDF format.

ACS Assessment Fees (2025)

  • General Skill Assessment: AUD $530
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): AUD $530
  • Review Application: AUD $395
  • Appeal Application: AUD $395

Fees are subject to change, so always check the ACS official website for the most current pricing.

ACS Assessment Processing Time

In 2025, the estimated ACS skill assessment processing time is:

  • Standard processing: 8 – 10 weeks
  • Priority processing (if offered): 2 – 4 weeks
⏳ Processing times may vary depending on document completeness and verification.

Tips for a Successful ACS Skill Assessment

✅ Match your experience to the right ANZSCO code

✅ Use clear, detailed employment references with responsibilities, hours, and tools used

✅ Include all supporting documents like payslips, tax records, and contracts

✅ Write a strong RPL report (if applicable), focusing on real projects and ICT tasks

✅ Consult a registered migration agent for accuracy and eligibility advice


Final Thoughts


The ACS Australia skill assessment is your gateway to launching a professional career in Australia’s thriving tech industry. Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced ICT professional, meeting the ACS standards is a must for securing your skilled visa.

Plan ahead, prepare your documents carefully, and stay updated with ACS guidelines to improve your chances of a successful outcome.

Need help preparing your ACS application or RPL report? I can assist with templates, examples, or even reviewing your draft. Just let me know!