ACT Invitation Round Minimum Matrix Score 2026 Australia (Latest Update)

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Last Updated: 2 April 2026

Many applicants miss ACT invitations even with high points. The ACT invitation round minimum matrix score 2026 Australia explains why.

Recent invitation rounds show that ACT selects candidates based on real competition, not just eligibility. If your score sits below the latest cut-off, you will not receive an invitation.

This guide breaks down the latest ACT data and shows how to assess your chances correctly.

What Is the ACT Invitation Round Minimum Matrix Score 2026 Australia?

The ACT invitation round minimum matrix score 2026 Australia shows the lowest score invited for each occupation under:

This score reflects actual invitation thresholds, not minimum visa requirements.

ACT ranks applicants based on their Matrix score. Higher-ranking candidates receive invitations first.

Latest ACT Invitation Round Scores (March 2026)

The most recent ACT invitation round took place on 12 March 2026 .

Here are selected examples:

Software and Applications Programmers (ANZSCO 2613)
Skilled Work Regional 491: 120
Skilled Nominated Visa 190: 125

ICT Business and Systems Analysts (ANZSCO 2611)
Skilled Work Regional 491 : 120
Skilled Nominated Visa 190: 130

Accountants (ANZSCO 2211)
Skilled Work Regional 491: 125
Skilled Nominated Visa 190: 135

Civil Engineering Professionals (ANZSCO 2332)
Skilled Work Regional 491: 110
Skilled Nominated Visa 190: 120

Roof Tilers (ANZSCO 3333)
Skilled Work Regional 491: 80
Skilled Nominated Visa 190: 90

These scores confirm that highly competitive occupations require significantly higher points.

Latest ACT Invitation Scores by Occupation

Canberra Resident vs Overseas Applicants

ACT separates candidates into two groups:

Canberra Residents

Candidates who live and work in Canberra often receive lower invitation thresholds. ACT values local contribution and employment.

Overseas Applicants

Overseas candidates face higher competition and need stronger scores to secure an invitation.

For example:

Accountants reach up to 135 for subclass 190
Overseas applicants still require around 120 or more

This difference shows that location plays a major role in ACT selection.

ACT Invitation Score Trends (2025–2026)

Data across multiple invitation rounds shows consistent patterns:

ICT occupations remain highly competitive (120–130)
Accountants continue to require very high scores (up to 135)
Engineers range between 90–120 depending on demand
Healthcare occupations stay moderate (60–80)
Trade occupations remain more accessible (80–90)

ACT does not show any clear downward trend in scores.

What Is a Good ACT Matrix Score in 2026?

A competitive score depends on your occupation.

General guidance:

ICT and accounting: 120+
Engineering: 95–120
Healthcare: 65–80
Trades: 80–90

If your score sits below these ranges, your chances remain low in current conditions.

How to Improve Your ACT Matrix Score

If your score does not meet recent cut-offs, focus on improving key areas:

Increase your English test results
Gain additional skilled work experience
Add partner points if eligible
Secure employment in Canberra
Consider alternative visa pathways

Small improvements can significantly impact your ranking.

Common Mistake Applicants Make

Many applicants believe that meeting 65 points guarantees an invitation.

This assumption leads to delays and refusals.

ACT does not invite based on minimum eligibility. ACT selects candidates who rank higher than others in the same occupation.

ACT Invitation Round FAQ

What is the ACT invitation round minimum matrix score 2026 Australia?

It is the lowest score ACT invited in a specific round for each occupation under subclass 190 and 491 visas.

Is 65 points enough for ACT nomination?

No. ACT requires competitive Matrix scores, often well above 65, depending on occupation.

Why are ACT scores so high?

ACT has limited nomination places and ranks applicants based on economic contribution, employment, and points.

Which occupations have lower ACT scores?

Healthcare and some trade occupations typically have lower thresholds compared to ICT and accounting roles.

Final Thoughts

The ACT invitation round minimum matrix score 2026 Australia provides a clear benchmark for migration planning.

You should not rely on minimum eligibility. You need to compare your score against real invitation data and adjust your strategy accordingly.

How RACC Can Help

Understanding the ACT invitation round minimum matrix score 2026 Australia is only the first step. Many applicants still miss invitations because their profile does not rank competitively within their occupation.

RACC helps you assess your real position based on recent ACT invitation data and guides you on how to improve your Matrix score effectively. We focus on practical strategies that align with current ACT selection trends, not just basic eligibility.

Our team can assist you with: