English Test for Australia Visa
English test for an Australian visa: learn accepted tests, English levels, score requirements, skilled migration points and current requirements for Australia visas.
MARN: 2619225 Registered Migration Agent
OMARA Verified Profile
↗
English Test for Australia Visa
An English test may be required for certain Australian visa applications, depending on the visa subclass and your individual circumstances. The English language requirements for Australia visa applications are not the same for every visa. Some visas require a minimum level of English, while others may allow applicants to provide alternative evidence or qualify for an exemption. Before booking a test, it is important to check the requirements for the specific visa you intend to apply for.
For Australian immigration purposes, the Department of Home Affairs recognises several approved English language tests, including IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1 Advanced, OET, CELPIP General, MET and LANGUAGECERT Academic, subject to the applicable requirements. Since 7 August 2025, the approved testing arrangements and score requirements have changed, so applicants should use the current requirements rather than relying on older test-score information.
The English test requirements for Australian visa applications can also depend on the level of English required. Common categories include Functional, Vocational, Competent, Proficient and Superior English. For skilled migration, English proficiency can be particularly important because Competent English may be required and higher levels can provide additional points under the skilled migration points test.
English Language Levels for Australian Immigration
The level you need depends on your visa pathway. Functional English is used for certain visa purposes, while Vocational, Competent, Proficient and Superior English apply in different immigration contexts. The following table provides a general overview rather than a substitute for the specific requirements of your visa.
| English Level | General Use | Relevance to Migration |
|---|---|---|
| Functional English | Certain visa and dependent circumstances | May satisfy specific English evidence requirements. |
| Vocational English | Selected visa requirements | May be relevant where a visa specifies this level. |
| Competent English | Many skilled migration pathways | Can satisfy the basic English requirement for certain skilled visas. |
| Proficient English | Skilled migration | Can provide additional points where the points test applies. |
| Superior English | Skilled migration | Can provide the highest English points under the skilled migration points test. |
Always check the official Australian Government English language requirements before taking a test because the accepted test, required scores and validity period can vary by visa subclass.
Consultation Request
Start your
journey.
Speak directly with registered migration professionals to evaluate your visa pathways.
Which English Tests Are Accepted for Australia?
For Australian visa purposes, approved tests currently include IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1 Advanced, OET, CELPIP General, MET and LANGUAGECERT Academic, depending on the applicable English level and visa requirements. Not every test is available for every English category, and the required scores differ between Functional, Vocational, Competent, Proficient and Superior English.
Applicants should also be aware that the Department of Home Affairs does not accept English language tests that are delivered completely online or remotely from home. Examples include IELTS Online, TOEFL iBT Home Edition and certain online versions of other approved tests. The test generally needs to be taken through an approved secure testing arrangement.
English Test for Australian PR
English can be an important part of an Australian permanent residence strategy, particularly for points-tested skilled visas such as subclasses 189, 190 and 491. Competent English may satisfy the English requirement, while Proficient or Superior English can contribute additional points. Your occupation, skills assessment, age, qualifications, employment history and other factors must also be considered when assessing your overall skilled migration position.
For example, under the skilled migration points system, Proficient English can provide 10 points and Superior English can provide 20 points when the applicant satisfies the applicable requirements. The exact evidence and test scores should always be checked against the current Department of Home Affairs rules.
Need Help With Your English Requirements?
Australian Immigration Consultants can help you understand the English requirements relevant to your Australian visa or skilled migration pathway.
If you are planning to take an English proficiency test for Australia, check the current visa-specific requirements before booking. The official Department of Home Affairs English language page provides the latest information on approved tests and evidence requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is an English test required for an Australian visa?
It depends on the visa subclass and your circumstances. Some Australian visas require evidence of English proficiency, while certain applicants may qualify for exemptions or provide other forms of evidence.
2. Which English test is accepted for Australian immigration?
Approved tests include IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1 Advanced, OET, CELPIP General, MET and LANGUAGECERT Academic, subject to the particular English level and visa requirements.
3. What English level is required for Australian PR?
The requirement depends on the permanent residence pathway. For points-tested skilled migration, Competent English is commonly relevant, while Proficient or Superior English can provide additional points under the applicable points test.
4. Can I use an online English test for an Australian visa?
The Department of Home Affairs does not accept English tests that are delivered completely online or remotely from home for Australian visa purposes. Check the current approved testing arrangements before booking.
5. Does a higher English score give more points for Australian PR?
For applicable points-tested skilled visas, higher English proficiency can provide additional points. Proficient English can provide 10 points and Superior English can provide 20 points when the relevant requirements are met.
MARN 2619225
QEAC G12906
Navigate Your Migration
With Confidence.
Expert guidance tailored to your unique journey. Get a personalized roadmap from a Registered Migration Agent today.
Fahad Shamim
Registered Migration Agent