Language & English Tests
An overview of requirements and approved tests.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS FOR YOUR PATH TO AUSTRALIA
English language skills play a crucial role in almost all Australian visa categories – whether it’s a skilled visa, a student visa, a skills assessment process or permanent migration. They are not only a formal requirement, but also a central factor for successful integration into Australian daily life, work and society.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs sets the required English level for each visa category. This level must be demonstrated through internationally recognised English tests that assess the four key language skills – reading, listening, writing and speaking.
For applicants, choosing the right test and understanding the required scores can be complex. In addition, some Skills Assessing Authorities and education providers have their own requirements that go beyond the minimum standards defined in migration law.
Therefore, it is important to know early which test and which language level are relevant for your goal – whether it is for study, skills assessment or a permanent visa.
- Why English language tests are important
For many Australian visa subclasses, proof of sufficient English language skills is mandatory. Educational institutions and skills assessment authorities usually also require evidence of specific English levels. The tests assess the four core skills – reading, listening, writing and speaking – and must be current for visa purposes. Results that are more than a few years old are not accepted.
English language tests for study, work and visas
Depending on the purpose of your stay in Australia – study, skills assessment or migration – the requirements for the English test and the required language level can differ.
For visa applications, the Australian Department of Home Affairs requires proof of specified minimum scores in an approved English test. These scores vary depending on the visa type – such as Skilled Migration, Employer Sponsorship or Student/Graduate Visa – and may range from Functional to Superior English.
For points-based skilled visas, a higher level of English can earn you additional points in the points test.
As part of a skills assessment process, many Australian assessing authorities also require proof of English language skills. Each Skills Assessment Authority decides which tests they accept and which minimum scores must be achieved for a successful assessment. The required scores may differ from the visa requirements. This is especially common for regulated professions such as nursing, medicine or teaching, but also for engineers and accountants.
Universities and colleges usually have their own English language requirements for admission. In many cases, an academic test such as IELTS Academic, PTE Academic or TOEFL iBT is required.
Test requirements for skills assessment, study and visa purposes may differ. Clarify early on whether your test is valid for both the visa and the skills assessment or study. This helps avoid duplicate testing and additional costs.
- Overview of language levels and test requirements
Australia uses its own language categories for visa and assessment processes – from Functional to Superior English. To make things easier, the table below shows approximate equivalences to the European CEFR levels.
| Language level (Australia) |
CEFR equivalent |
Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Functional English | A2 – B1 | Basic knowledge to manage everyday situations; can have simple conversations and understand familiar topics. |
| Vocational English | B1 | Ability to communicate in work-related situations; can exchange information and conduct routine workplace conversations. |
| Competent English | B2 | Good, confident language skills in everyday life and work; can understand complex texts and express themselves spontaneously and fluently. |
| Proficient English | C1 | Advanced language competence; can understand demanding texts and express ideas precisely and in detail. |
| Superior English | C1-C2 | Very high level of proficiency; can understand effortlessly, argue clearly and express themselves accurately in all situations. |
For permanent residence through employer sponsorship and for points-based Skilled Visas, Competent English (B2) is typically the minimum requirement, while applicants with Proficient (C1) or Superior English (C2) receive additional points in the points test.
- Which English tests are recognised for Australian visas?
To ensure that all applicants demonstrate a comparable level of English skills, the Department of Home Affairs accepts only specific, internationally standardised English tests. Each test assesses the four components (Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking). For visa purposes, minimum scores must be achieved in each component.
Below is an overview of the individual tests and the required scores for each English level.
Only tests taken in approved test centres are accepted. Online or at-home versions are not permitted for visa purposes.
- IELTS
- PTE
- TOEFL iBT
- OET
- CAE Cambridge
- CELPIP
- LANGUAGE CERT
- MET
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Overview
IELTS is the most widely known English test worldwide and is offered in two versions:
- Academic: for academic requirements
- General Training: for general language skills for everyday and professional purposes
Both versions are accepted by Australian authorities.
The test assesses reading, listening, writing and speaking. The speaking part is conducted in a personal interview with an examiner.
Good to know:
- Available worldwide in more than 1,000 test centres
- In many countries available as paper-based or computer-based
- Results are usually available after 5–7 days
- Scores reported on a scale from 1 to 9
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
Overview
The PTE Academic is a fully computer-based test assessed using automated scoring and artificial intelligence. It measures the four language skills through tasks based on real-life scenarios and is particularly popular due to its fast processing time.
Good to know:
- Results usually within 24–48 hours
- No examiner interview – all responses are digitally assessed
- More than 250 test centres worldwide
- Scores are reported on a scale from 0 to 90
TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
Overview
The TOEFL iBT is a widely used academic language test, especially popular in the higher education sector. It is taken entirely online at a test centre and assesses the ability to use English in academic and professional contexts.
Good to know:
- More than 4,500 test centres worldwide
- Scores: maximum of 30 points per category (120 total)
- Results usually available within 5 days
OET (Occupational English Test)
Overview
The OET is specifically designed for health professionals – such as doctors, nurses, dentists or therapists – and assesses English language skills in job-related, medical scenarios.
Good to know:
- Recognised by all Australian health authorities
- 12 exam dates per year worldwide
- Tasks based on real medical workplace situations
Cambridge English C1 Advanced (CAE)
Overview
The Cambridge C1 Advanced (formerly “Certificate in Advanced English”) assesses high-level academic English and is internationally recognised by universities, authorities and employers.
Good to know:
- More than 1,300 test centres worldwide
- Score scale from 160–210
- Results from 180 points correspond to C1 level
CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
Overview
The CELPIP-General Test is a Canadian-developed English test that is also recognised by the Australian Department of Home Affairs for visa purposes. It assesses practical English for everyday and workplace situations and is entirely computer-based.
Good to know:
- Format: computer-based only
- Results usually within 3–5 days
- Suitable for applicants familiar with North American English
LanguageCert Academic
Overview
LanguageCert Academic is a newer English test recognised by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. It offers a modern, fully computer-based format and measures both academic and general English.
Good to know:
- Digital test available worldwide in test centres
- Results usually available within a few days
MET (Michigan English Test)
Overview
The MET (Michigan English Test) is an internationally recognised language test that assesses practical English skills in academic and professional contexts. It is developed in cooperation with the University of Michigan and is also accepted by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Good to know:
- Flexible format: computer- or paper-based
- Results available within 5–10 days
- Tips for preparing for the English language test
Good preparation is crucial to achieve the desired score in your English test. Each test follows a clear structure and assesses specific language skills – knowing the format and assessment criteria helps you perform better.
1. Understand test format and scoring
Familiarise yourself early with the structure of the chosen test – the four components Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking – as well as the scoring method. Each provider offers sample tasks, scoring guidelines and often free practice tests on their websites. Use these to understand timing, task types and typical phrasing.
2. Use official preparation materials
Avoid unofficial or outdated sources. Official platforms such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, OET, Cambridge or LanguageCert offer preparation materials, practice tests and sample answers that match current scoring standards.
3. Create realistic practice conditions
Practise regularly under exam conditions – with time limits and in a quiet environment. The speaking component benefits greatly from recording yourself and analysing your pronunciation and structure. Online coaching or simulated exams can also help.
4. Address weaknesses directly
Individual sections (e.g. Writing or Listening) often determine the final score. Focus on areas where your scores have been lower. Many providers offer targeted “skill booster” courses for specific components.
5. Plan timing and test validity
Schedule the test early – keeping in mind the limited validity for visa purposes (usually two to three years). If you are exploring multiple visa options, choose a test that is widely accepted across different processes (e.g. IELTS or PTE Academic).
6. Use English actively in daily life
Regular exposure helps – through English-language podcasts, academic articles or conversations with native speakers. Using English actively in daily life improves vocabulary, fluency and confidence.
Many applicants underestimate the preparation time required. Allow enough time – a well-prepared test result can make a decisive difference in visa applications.
Support from Visapath
As an Australia-based migration agency, we support skilled workers and families with all questions regarding visas, long-term stay planning and migration law.
Our services are aimed at anyone planning a longer stay or a fresh start in Australia.
We understand the legal requirements, the processes used by Australian authorities and the challenges that applicants from different backgrounds may face. Our consultants combine professional expertise with cultural sensitivity to ensure your pathway to Australia runs smoothly.
Service and quality advantages with Visapath
- Dedicated personal contact: Personal guidance from one advisor throughout the entire visa process – from initial enquiry to visa grant.
- Registered Migration Agents: Every application is handled by a Registered Migration Agent under Australian law – professional, experienced and fully compliant.
- Transparency & highest standards: We operate under the strict Code of Conduct governing Australian migration practice, ensuring integrity, data protection and professional competence.
- Complete service from one trusted provider: From personalised advice to translation management and visa processing – efficient, reliable and well-coordinated.