Australia Updates English Test Rules for Immigration Applicants

The Australian Government has announced important updates to the Australia immigration English test rules, impacting a wide range of visa applicants. These changes aim to broaden accessibility while ensuring consistent language proficiency standards for migrants, students, and workers.

More English Tests Now Accepted

From August 7, 2025, Australia’s Department of Home Affairs officially expanded the list of accepted English language tests for immigration purposes. Previously limited to IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and OET, the updated policy now includes:

This expansion provides applicants with greater flexibility, allowing them to choose from a wider range of test formats and providers when meeting visa language requirements.

Updated Score Thresholds Across Visa Categories

The policy changes also revise the minimum score requirements for different visa subclasses. These updates align proficiency benchmarks across the various accepted English tests, ensuring fairness regardless of which test an applicant chooses.

Key updates include:

Functional English – Adjusted minimum scores for multiple tests.
Vocational, Competent, Proficient, and Superior English – Revised benchmarks for permanent and temporary visas.
Vocational Level Change – The Cambridge C1 Advanced test is no longer accepted for Vocational English requirements.

Visa subclasses impacted include the Skilled Migration visas, Student visa (subclass 500), and Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), among others.

Validity Periods Remain in Place

While the accepted test list has grown, validity periods for results remain unchanged. For most visas, English test results must be less than three years old at the time of application. For some visas—such as Temporary Graduate or Student visas—the validity period may be shorter.

Applicants are encouraged to check the specific English language requirements for their chosen visa subclass before booking a test.

Transitional Arrangements for Recent Test-Takers

If you completed an English test before 7 August 2025, you can still use the previous score requirements, provided your results are within the standard validity period. This transition measure ensures that recent test-takers are not disadvantaged by sudden changes.

Why the Changes Matter

English proficiency plays a critical role in Australia’s immigration system. From employment readiness to academic success and community integration, strong language skills are seen as a foundation for settlement.

By expanding accepted test options and refining score standards, Australia aims to:

Increase accessibility for applicants in regions where traditional tests are harder to access.
Maintain high language standards while allowing more flexibility in how applicants prove their skills.
Align immigration policy with global testing options and trends.

Preparing for Your English Test

Applicants should prepare thoroughly for their chosen Australia immigration English test. Key steps include:

Confirm Your Visa Requirements – Check the Department of Home Affairs website for the exact English level required for your visa.
Choose the Right Test – Consider cost, availability, and format (paper vs. computer-based) when selecting a test provider.
Practice in Advance – Use official practice materials from the test provider to get familiar with the format and timing.
Book Early – Test availability can be limited, especially in peak migration seasons.

Bottom Line

The August 2025 updates to the Australia immigration English test requirements give visa applicants more choice while tightening score consistency across different tests. Whether you’re applying for a skilled visa, a student visa, or permanent residency, understanding these changes will help you meet the language criteria and strengthen your application.

For full details, visit the official Department of Home Affairs website and review the English language requirements for your visa subclass.