For visa applications, English language requirements generally apply to applicants wanting to study or work in Australia. You will need to check the eligibility page for the visa subclass you wish to apply for, to see what level of English you need and what evidence you must provide. The Department accepts scores from the following tests undertaken at a secure test centre for English language visa requirements:
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS), including One Skill Retake (OSR)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE)
- Cambridge English (CAE) (also known as C1 Advanced)
- Occupational English Test (OET), noting this is a test developed for health professionals
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT)
Since 14 December 2022, IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) is available for certain test takers. OSR allows test takers to retake one of the four test components in either reading, writing, speaking or listening (once only). From 26 July 2023 TOEFL iBT will no longer be offering English language tests for Australian visa purposes until further notice. For Australian visa purposes, the Department will accept IELTS test results that include OSR, with the exception of applications for subclasses 476, 482, and 485. See what evidence you need to provide for:
- Functional English
- Vocational English
- Competent English
- Proficient English
- Superior English
Some test providers offer alternative versions of their tests that you can take at home or online, such as TOEFL iBT – Home Edition, OET@Home, PTE Academic Online, IELTS Online (General and Academic) and IELTS Indicator. Home Affairs does not accept scores from these tests, or any other ‘at-home’ or ‘online’ tests for Australian migration purposes. You will need to meet our English language requirements to apply for some visas.
Please contact our team so that we can assist you.
