2024 Update: TOEFL Now Accepted by Australian Home Affairs

Good news!

In an announcement on May 4th, 2024, the Australian Department of Home Affairs gave a major update that TOEFL tests taken on or after May 5th, 2024, will now be accepted as proof of English proficiency for all visa applications. This could widen the opportunities for aspiring students and working professionals.

But Why the Change?

Before this policy update, IELTS was the primary English language test accepted by Australian Home Affairs. But recognising the need for diverse assessment tools, the department has decided to include TOEFL, an already widely accepted test. This inclusion aims to achieve four goals:

1. Accommodate different skills and learning styles.
2. Allow more options for applicants to demonstrate their English proficiency.
3. Make the visa application process accessible to more applicants.
4. Align Australia’s immigration policies with global best practices.

Now, let’s go deeper!

Understanding TOEFL

TOEFL is one of the most sought-after English proficiency tests in the world right now. Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), it is chosen by over 12,500 institutions spanning 160+ countries as one of their primary measures of English. When a candidate appears for this test, they will be evaluated in 4 key areas:

• Reading
• Listening
• Speaking
• Writing

Each of these sections is scored between 0 and 30, and the final score is the sum of all sections. This final result gives a comprehensive understanding of the candidate’s level of English.

Benefits of TOEFL Acceptance

With the acceptance of TOEFL, the candidates can see a lot of benefits in pursuing their career goals. Here are some prominent ones.

1. Expanded Options for Applicants: With TOEFL now recognised, you have a wider range of choices to demonstrate your English ability. It’s particularly beneficial if you find the TOEFL format better suited to your strengths.
2. International Credibility: TOEFL’s inclusion in the Australian visa process further validates its credibility and robustness as an English assessment tool.
3. A Sweeping Skill Evaluation: TOEFL’s detailed evaluation of different skills provides a thorough assessment of one’s English abilities. So, acing these sections means a significant confidence boost and a solid command of the English language.
4. Convenient Accessibility: Conducted in numerous testing centres around the globe, TOEFL offers significantly higher accessibility than other tests. it also reduces the need for extensive travel and makes the process more convenient.

Implications for Prospective Migrants

The acceptance of TOEFL by Australian Home Affairs opens new doors for students, skilled workers, and professionals. Here’s how different groups can benefit:

• Are you an international student? You can aim to enrol in your preferred Australian universities now using your TOEFL scores. This can make the application process smoother and more straightforward.
• Are you a professional? You can work in Australia leveraging your TOEFL scores. This greatly widens your opportunities in the competitive job market we have today.
• Are you someone applying for permanent residency? You now have another way to demonstrate your English proficiency, which is through TOEFL. It makes the pathway to permanent residency more accessible.

Preparing for TOEFL

Now that you’re aware of the policy change and how it affects your journey, all that’s left is your preparation for the exam. How do you begin your preparation? It’s a vast topic to begin with, but let’s get down to the basics first.

1. Explore the Test Format: To succeed in any exam, you need to first gain insight into its structure. The same goes with the TOEFL. Study the exam format thoroughly, including the types of questions and the timing for each section. This knowledge will help you manage your time efficiently during the test.
2. Take advantage of Official ETS Resources: ETS provides a lot of preparation materials for candidates appearing for TOEFL. It includes practice tests, study guides, and online courses that will give a realistic sense of what to expect on test day.
3. Engage in Regular Practice: All the information you learned so far means nothing if there isn’t enough practice. So, read, listen, speak, and write in English every day to build your skills and confidence at the same time.
4. Join Study Groups: You might surely know a friend who is also preparing for TOEFL—collaborate with them. Also, find relevant study groups and online forums that can provide valuable support, resources, and motivation.
5. Simulate Test Conditions: Inadequate understanding of the test conditions can cause stress and anxiety. So, take enough full-length practice tests under timed conditions to get accustomed to the test’s pacing.

Ready to Begin Your Preparation?

Start your preparation today with English Wise and take advantage of this new opportunity to make your Australian aspirations a reality. We’ve guided students for years now, and our methods have proven to be helpful for all. Give us a call to know more!