Applicants seeking Australian visas still need to demonstrate English competence via the IELTS exam. Some notable changes, nevertheless, include the acceptance of non-traditional examinations like the PTE Academic, the TOEFL iBT, and the Cambridge English Examinations (CAE, CPE).
In addition, the use of IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) shows a readiness to handle different examination scenarios. Applicants today have more options than ever before when it comes to acceptable examinations; however, IELTS is still one of them.
Before deciding on an English language competency exam, candidates must ensure they are up-to-date on all visa requirements and thoroughly research the category into which they are applying.
Stay with us, as we are going to give you all you need to know about IELTS requirements for Australia.
English Certification Requirements for Immigration to Australia
There are five English language tests accepted for student visa applications in Australia:
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
- IELTS is a widely recognized English language proficiency test.
- It assesses candidates in four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
- Each skill is scored on a band scale, and the overall band score is calculated as an average of the four skills.
Remember: IELTS score is important in determining how well a student can perform academically. It measures one’s ability to understand and communicate in English, the language of instruction for many universities worldwide. This means that having a good IELTS score can be essential for achieving success in higher education and beyond. Read More about IELTS score zero to hero!
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test
- TOEFL is another popular English proficiency test.
- The internet-based test (iBT) evaluates the candidate’s abilities in Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
- Scores are given for each section, and the total score is the sum of these section scores.
Note: The paper-based test is accepted from limited countries. It typically includes sections on Listening Comprehension, Structure and Written Expression, Reading Comprehension, and an Essay.
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
- CAE is part of the Cambridge English exams and is considered an advanced-level test.
- It assesses proficiency in the four language skills: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.
- Candidates receive a score on a scale, and there are different proficiency levels.
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
- PTE Academic is a computer-based English language proficiency test.
- It evaluates Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking skills.
- Scores are based on a point system, and there is no human scoring involved.
Occupational English Test (OET)
- Those working in the medical field are the intended users of OET.
- It evaluates the four abilities of listening, reading, writing, and speaking as they pertain to healthcare.
- There is a scale from A (very good) to E (very poor) for each subtest that candidates must complete.
Is IELTS required in Australia?
Yes, IELTS is needed in Australia for a number of reasons, including employment, professional registration, and acquiring a visa for permanent residence. For migration, it is the gold standard, and almost every professional organization recognizes and accepts it.
You can get a permanent residence with either the Academic or General Training version of the IELTS, but you need the Academic version to register for a profession and work. In the point-based immigration system, more points are awarded for better scores, with a minimum of 6 necessary in each of the four categories (speaking, listening, reading, and writing).
While the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the gold standard, additional acceptable examinations include the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT), the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic), and the Official English Test (OET), the latter of which is reserved for those working in the medical and allied health fields.
Better to know: IELTS VS TOEFL are two of the most popular tests used to measure an individual’s proficiency in the English language. These tests have become increasingly important over the years due to their widespread use by universities, employers, governments, and other organizations worldwide. IELTS and TOEFL provide reliable measurements for assessing individuals’ ability to read, write, listen, and speak in English.
Important Tips IELTS requirements in Australia
- IELTS is required for Australian permanent residency, professional registration, and work.
- IELTS Academic is necessary for professional registration and work, while both IELTS Academic and General Training are accepted for permanent residency.
- A minimum score of 6 in each IELTS section is required, and higher scores yield more immigration points.
- IELTS is integrated into the point-based immigration system, influencing the eligibility and ranking of applicants.
- Other accepted language tests include TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and OET (for medical and allied health professionals).
- IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) is available for certain test takers, allowing a retake in one of the four components.
- IELTS test results with OSR are generally accepted for visa purposes, except for subclasses 476, 482, and 485, which require scores from a single sitting/attempt.
- TOEFL iBT will no longer be offering English language tests for Australian visa purposes from July 26, 2023.
Different Visa Categories and Their Ielts Requirements
One popular method for determining whether a visa applicant is proficient in English is the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The following is a rundown of the many types of visas and the IELTS scores needed for each:
1. Student Visa English Requirements (from early 2024):
Visa Category |
English Requirement |
| ELICOS student visa applicants | IELTS 5.0 or equivalent |
| Student visa applicants in foundation programs | IELTS 5.5 or equivalent |
| Other student visa applicants | IELTS 6.0 or equivalent |
| Temporary Graduate visa applicants | IELTS 6.5 or equivalent |
2. English Requirements for Common Australian Visas:
Visa Type |
Level of English |
| 482 TSS Visa (Medium and Long Term) | IELTS 5 (no skill below 5) or equivalent |
| 482 TSS Visa (Short-Term) | IELTS overall 5 (no skill below 4.5) or equivalent |
| ENS 186 Visa | IELTS 6 in all skills or equivalent |
| RSMS 187 Visa | IELTS 6 in all skills or equivalent |
| Most Skilled Migration visas (189, 190, 491, 494) | Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent), Proficient English (IELTS 7 or equivalent), Superior English (IELTS 8 or equivalent) |
| Training Visa (subclass 407) | Functional English (average 4.5 in IELTS or equivalent) |
| Temporary Activity Visa (subclass 408) | Functional English (average 4.5 in IELTS or equivalent) |
| Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (403) | No English Requirement |
| Graduate Temporary 485 Visa | IELTS overall average of 6 and at least 5 in each band or equivalent |
| Recognised Graduate (476) | Overall score of at least IELTS 6 with a minimum score of 5 for each part or equivalent |
| Skilled Regional Visa (subclass 887) | No English Requirement for the main applicant |
| Distinguished Talent Visa (124) | All applicants must have functional English or pay an extra charge |
| Business Visas (188A & 188B) | No minimum English requirement, but applicants with less than functional English pay an English Language Charge |
3. Work & Holiday Visas
|
Visa Type |
IELTS Requirement |
| Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) | No English requirement |
| Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462) | No English requirement |
| 482 TSS Visa (Medium and Long Term) | IELTS 5 (no skill below 5) or equivalent |
| 482 TSS Visa (Short-Term) | IELTS overall 5 (no skill below 4.5) or equivalent |
4. English Test Validity
- The acceptance period for tests is three years before the submission deadline.
- It is necessary to take a test to assess functional English within one year prior to filing.
5. Partner Visa 820/309
- Paying an English Language Charge is necessary for applicants whose English proficiency is below the required level (average 4.5 on the IELTS or an equivalent).
Points Tested Skilled Visas – English Language Proficiency
English Level |
IELTS |
TOEFL iBT |
PTE Academic |
OET |
Cambridge (CAE) |
| Vocational |
5.5 |
Listening & Reading: 4.0, Writing & Speaking: 14 |
36 |
B |
154 |
| Competent |
6.0 |
Listening: 12, Reading: 13, Writing: 21, Speaking: 18 |
50 |
B |
169 |
| Proficient (for points tested Skilled visas) |
7.0 |
Listening & Reading: 24, Writing: 27, Speaking: 23 |
65 |
B |
185 |
| Superior (for points tested Skilled visas) | 8.0 | Listening: 28, Reading: 29, Writing: 30, Speaking: 26 | 79 | A |
200
|
Suggest to know: If you are in the market to travel to an English-speaking country or you are willing to take an English course, you should take the IELTS exam. Here is a short list of the needed IELTS scores for a few countries.
Exemptions to IELTS Requirements
In some cases, you may be exempt from taking the IELTS exam. List of exemptions from IELTS Requirements:
Exemption 1: UK, US Passport
You won’t need to take the IELTS if you’re a native English speaker, possess a passport from the US, Canada, or the UK, or if you speak English as your first language. The presumption that citizens of these nations possess an adequate command of the English language allows them to enjoy this privilege.
Exemption 2: English-Taught Secondary Education
You do not need to take the IELTS if you have already finished secondary school in an English-only program. This exclusion is based on the assumption that those who have attended schools where English is the primary language have already attained the required level of competence.
Exemption 3: Lived and Worked in an IELTS-Exempt Country for 5 Years
The IELTS is not required if you have been a permanent resident and worker in an IELTS-exempt nation for a minimum of five years prior to your visa application. People who have lived and worked in an English-speaking environment for a long time would have picked up enough English to qualify for this exemption.
Exemption 4: IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) Only
With the introduction of the IELTS One Skill Repeat (OSR) option on December 14, 2022, candidates will have the opportunity to repeat one of the four sections of the test: reading, writing, speaking, or listening, but only once.
Results from the IELTS that contain OSR will be accepted by the Department of Immigration for the majority of visa types, including student, Working Holiday, and skilled visas. The only subclasses that don’t need scores from more than one sitting/attempt are 476, 482, and 485.
Tips To Get Ready for IELTS Exam
In order to do well on the IELTS, consider the following:
1. Get to Know the Exam Structure
Make sure you fully grasp the examination structure before enrolling for the IELTS exam. Think about whether you’ll need the Academic or General Training module, then choose between the print and digital versions.
Learn about the modules’ distinctions, prerequisites, and structure. Take stock of your present English skill level and use that information to establish a reasonable study schedule.
2. Getting a Private Teacher
You may greatly improve your preparation by working with an IELTS expert coach. Taking a class with a tutor online, particularly via a service like Ostado, allows for more individualized attention, feedback on past exams, and study strategies. Working with an Ostado may be a great way to get feedback on where you’re struggling, advice on how to strengthen those areas, and encouragement as you get ready.
Ostado is a great platform for students who want to improve their IELTS preparation since it links them with top private trainers in the country. Students looking to enhance their English language abilities may get individualized coaching via Ostado’s network of professional and qualified IELTS tutors and teachers.
Individuals may take advantage of practice test assessments, personalized comments to help them improve, and focused assistance, all via this platform. With the help of online learning systems like Ostado, students can easily get professional instruction and encouragement while they study for the IELTS.
3. Mastering Grading Criteria
Learn the requirements for each element of the test, especially the parts that involve subjective evaluation, like writing and speaking. Master the subtleties of providing a convincing response.
Keep in mind that even the best candidates make mistakes sometimes, so perfection isn’t always required. Get to know official resources, including example answer sheets, so you can be sure your answers are up to par.
4. Use Official Resources
Use the official IELTS study guides that the test boards have given. Trustworthy organizations, such as the British Council, provide resources like example papers, free preparation courses, and progress checks.
Save official pages to your bookmarks and follow brands on social media to stay updated. Put these resources ahead of anything else you’re studying for, and make sure they cover the same topic as the exam.
5. Enhancing Your Listening Abilities
If you want to do better on the IELTS listening section, you should listen to a wide range of English-language audio resources. You can recognize important information from a variety of voices by regularly listening to podcasts, TED Talks, or the BBC news.
Pay attention to various spoken situations in order to comprehend the context, key points, and details. You may also practice listening to English in a variety of contexts by using tools like the British Council’s Listening Practice, which provides you with tasks designed to mimic the structure of the test.
6. Strategies for Effective Reading
Master the art of skimming and scanning to find the important details in a piece of writing fast. There are a lot of resources online to help you improve your reading comprehension, such as IELTS Liz.
Get a feel for the various question formats, learn to manage your time well, and identify important facts. You may prepare for the test and improve your reading comprehension skills by regularly practicing with sample texts.
7. Mastering the Art of Fluent Speech
Taking part in more English-language discussions is a great way to improve your fluency. If you want to improve your language skills and meet native speakers, try using an exchange program like Tandem or HelloTalk.
Keep things flowing naturally, stress the need to express yourself clearly, and encourage spontaneous conversation. If you want to train your voice and increase your vocabulary, talk about a variety of subjects.
Don’t miss: In the IELTS Speaking test, candidates navigate through three distinct parts, each designed to assess various language skills. Part 1 involves introductory questions. Moving on to Part 2, candidates face a task where they must speak for two minutes about a given topic. Finally, Part 3 delves into in-depth discussions. So it is better to know more details about IELTS Speaking examples.
Conclusion
Although IELTS has long been the gold standard for Australian visa applicants, new rules have made it possible to use other tests to prove English competence, including PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, and Cambridge English examinations (CAE, CPE).
The Department’s ability to adapt to different testing situations is further shown by the installation of IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR). Applicants are free to choose from a variety of recognized examinations, while IELTS is still an option according to the most recent data available.
Before deciding on an English language proficiency exam, applicants should research the particular requirements of their desired visa category and keep themselves updated on any changes to visa regulations.
FAQs
Can I apply to Australia with the IELTS 5.5 band?
A minimum of 6.0 in each of the four sections of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is necessary for the majority of Australia’s skilled migration visas, including the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190).
What is the IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR), and how does it affect Australian visa applications?
The IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) allows test takers to retake one of the four test components (reading, writing, speaking, or listening) once. While it is generally accepted for Australian visas, some subclasses, such as 476, 482, and 485, may require scores from a single sitting/attempt.
What are the English language requirements for Australian student visas?
From early 2024, the English requirements for Student visas will be increased. ELICOS student visa applicants will need IELTS 5.0, foundation or pathway program participants IELTS 5.5, while other student visa applicants will require IELTS 6.0. Temporary Graduate visa applicants will need IELTS 6.5.
Are there exemptions to the IELTS requirements for Australian visas?
Yes, exemptions exist. Individuals holding passports from the UK, USA, Canada, NZ, or native English speakers may be exempt. Those completing secondary education in English or having continuous work experience in an IELTS-exempt country for at least 5 years may also be exempt.
