Australia Updates English Test Rules for Visas from August 7, 2025
Big news for anyone planning to move or stay long-term in Australia: starting August 7, 2025, the Department of Home Affairs will expand its list of accepted English language tests and introduce updated score requirements. The changes are designed to ensure consistency across all formats and reflect real-world English proficiency levels more accurately.
New English Tests Now Accepted
From August 7, 2025, applicants can submit results from these additional tests (valid for 3 years from the test date):
- CELPIP General
- Widely used in Canada for immigration.
- Assesses everyday English across Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
- Fully computer-based; results within 4–5 business days.
- LanguageCert Academic
- Focuses on academic and professional English.
- Available in both paper and computer formats.
- Results usually in 3 business days.
- Michigan English Test (MET)
- Popular in the U.S. and Latin America, now globally recognised.
- Tests general English for work and study.
- Available as a 4-skill test, either online or in-person.
Revised Score Requirements
Alongside new test options, Australia has also revised minimum score thresholds for existing tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, C1 Advanced, and OET. These adjustments aim to align scoring across all test providers.
Minimum Scores for Competent English
If your visa requires Competent English, you must meet the following minimums in all four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking). Falling short in any one area makes you ineligible.
| Test | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
| IELTS | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| PTE Academic | 47 | 48 | 51 | 54 |
| C1 Advanced | 163 | 163 | 170 | 179 |
| TOEFL iBT | 16 | 16 | 19 | 19 |
| OET | 290 | 310 | 290 | 330 |
| CELPIP General | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 57 | 60 | 64 | 70 |
| MET | 56 | 55 | 57 | 48 |
What This Means for Applicants
- More flexibility: You can now choose a test that fits your strengths, budget, and format preference (computer, paper, or online).
- Consistency: Updated scores mean fairer comparisons across all test systems.
- Preparation is key: Even with more choices, minimum requirements are strict — every skill must meet the benchmark.
Final Thoughts
Australia is widening its options for English proficiency testing while ensuring high standards for visa applicants. With these changes, you’ll have more freedom to select a test that works best for you — just make sure your scores are valid and meet the updated thresholds.
If you’re planning your application, start preparing early and pick the test that plays to your strengths!
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