English proficiency is mandatory for studying or working in any English-speaking nation, including Australia. IELTS, PTE, or any other test, you need to achieve the required scores to qualify for an Australian visa. However, the score requirements have been recently revised and came into effect on March 23, 2024.
So, if you are thinking about getting an Australian visa, you need to know the updated English language standards. Setting goals and planning preparation based on these new requirements is crucial for any Student or other visa.
What are these new qualifying scores? And how do they influence your preparation? Let’s find out today!
Timeframe for English Language Test
Every test has a certain validity period. So, when you are planning to pursue your abroad goals, it’s important to take note of the timeframe within which you must have completed the English language test.
Here, you must know of two possible scenarios:
- You are classified as ‘Regular Evidence’ level: You must have completed the test within two years before the date you lodged your visa application.
- You are categorised as ‘Streamlined Evidence’ level and haven’t provided evidence of the English test at the time of application: You must have completed the test within two years before the Department decides on your visa application.
English Language Test Providers and Minimum Scores
Now, let’s see which English tests the Australian Department of Home Affairs accepts. Each of these options has unique required scores to meet the Student visa English language requirement, as follows.
1. International English Language Testing System (IELTS):
IELTS is one of the most picked English proficiency tests for Australian visas (and many other visas around the world). If you decide to go with it, here are your goals.
- Minimum Test Score: 6.0
- Minimum Test Score with at least 10 weeks of ELICOS or a Foundation program: 5.5
- Minimum Test Score with at least 20 weeks of ELICOS: 5.0
2. TOEFL internet-based test (only accepted if taken on or before July 25, 2023):
TOEFL, the ‘Test of English as a Foreign Language,’ is a widely recognised test for both academic and professional pursuits worldwide. If this is your preferred test, these are the criteria you need to meet.
- Minimum Test Score: 64
- Post-Study Work stream to Post-Higher Education Work stream
- Minimum Test Score with at least 10 weeks of ELICOS or a Foundation program: 46
- Minimum Test Score with at least 20 weeks of ELICOS: 35
3. Cambridge English: Advanced (Certificate in Advanced English):
Administered by Cambridge Assessment English, this is another internationally acknowledged English test. It evaluates your skills at an advanced level, and you qualify for a visa after meeting these scores.
- Minimum Test Score: 169
- Post-Study Work stream to Post-Higher Education Work stream
- Minimum Test Score with at least 10 weeks of ELICOS or a Foundation program: 162
- Minimum Test Score with at least 20 weeks of ELICOS: 154
4. Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic):
PTE is a computer-based test that offers a fair and accurate measure of your language proficiency in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Here are the qualifying scores.
- Minimum Test Score: 50
- Minimum Test Score with at least 10 weeks of ELICOS or a Foundation program: 42
- Minimum Test Score with at least 20 weeks of ELICOS: 36
5. Occupational English Test (OET):
OET is a test for healthcare workers, and it’s a prime requirement for many healthcare organisations around the world. It checks how well one can understand and use English while communicating with patients and colleagues. With OET, your desired scores should be as follows.
- Minimum Test Score: B for each test component
- Minimum Test Score with at least 10 weeks of ELICOS or a Foundation program: B for each test component
- Minimum Test Score with at least 20 weeks of ELICOS: B for each test component
Minimum Requirements for Packaged Courses
When a student combines different courses together, it’s called a packaged course, and they have specific requirements to apply.
For example, the minimum IELTS (or equivalent) test score to meet is 5.5 for students enrolled in at least 10 weeks of ELICOS packaged with a principal course. Whereas for those enrolled in at least 20 weeks of ELICOS, the required score is 5.0.
Talk to an educational advisor or immigration expert for more information and reliable support.
Final Word:
We hope you understand the revised English test requirements well and can navigate the visa application process successfully. Now, make sure to plan accordingly and prepare for the test to meet the necessary standards. With the right preparation, you can venture on your journey to Australia with confidence!
EnglishWise is here to help you if you have any further questions regarding the latest changes to the Migration Strategy. So, feel free to drop us a call whenever you need our expertise!
Good luck!
