So my situation is that I have 5+ years of overseas experience in my field, and that will give me points.
By taking a English test I can confirm I have proficient english thus getting me some more points
Finally, by taking 3 IT related exams, I would gain a qualification that is recognised by ACS (skills assessor) as a equivalent to a ICT Major Diploma, this again gets me points.
So combining all 3 of these along with Age etc, I have enough points to meet the requirement. In this scenario I'm not sure if experience will only be counted after the exams as they are 2 different criteria's. I would have thought that will be standalone.
PS. My occupation is on the Long Term scheme (previously known as the SOL)
I see what you mean however my occupation isn't really in doubt. It's whether my previous experience aligns well enough to the skills criteria. The grey area for me is whether I have accumulated 5 or more years of RELEVANT experience and unfortunately its a little unclear at this stage despite reading over the criteria many times. It may well be that ACS (skills vetting authority) see my previous experience as suitable. Personally I think it is worth a shots whilst I am still in AUS under a working holiday VISA.
It means I can stay here a tad longer and accumulate Australian work experience which I suppose can bolster my prospects if nothing else.