Australia Updates English Test Rules for Visas from August 7: New Tests and Score Changes

Australia Updates English Test Rules for Visas from August 7: New Tests and Score Changes

Starting August 7, 2025, Australia accepts CELPIP, LanguageCert Academic, and MET for visa applications. Revised score requirements for IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and others aim to standardize English proficiency levels.

Australia Updates English Test Rules for Visas from August 7: New Tests and Score Changes

If you’re planning a move or a long stay in Australia, big changes are coming to the English language test requirements for visa applicants. Starting August 7, 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs is expanding its roster of accepted English tests. This change comes alongside updated score requirements for several existing tests. The goal? Make the system more consistent across all formats and ensure scores reflect the same level of language proficiency.

New English Tests Accepted for Australia Visa

As of August 7, 2025, you can submit results from any of the following newly accepted English language tests. All will be valid for up to 3 years from the test date.

1. CELPIP General

A computer-based test widely used in Canada for immigration, CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program), evaluates everyday English used in work and social settings. It includes Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, all completed in one sitting. Results are typically available in 4–5 business days.

2. LANGUAGECERT Academic

LANGUAGECERT Academic test focuses on English skills needed in academic and professional contexts. It’s designed to assess real-life language use and offers both paper-based and computer-based formats. Results are usually available within 3 business days.

3. Michigan English Test (MET)

The Michigan English Test (MET) is a flexible test commonly used in the U.S. and Latin America, now gaining recognition globally. It evaluates general English proficiency and is ideal for those using English in work or study environments. It’s available as a 4-skill test and can be taken online or at test centres.

Revised Score Requirements for Existing Tests

Australia is also tweaking the score benchmarks for some well-known English tests to keep things fair across the board. These updated requirements apply to:

• PTE Academic
• C1 Advanced
• OET (Occupational English Test)
• TOEFL iBT

If you’ve already taken one of these, double-check your scores against the new thresholds.

Note: The C1 Advanced test is no longer accepted for Vocational English requirements. If you’re applying under a visa subclass that requires only Vocational English, you’ll need to choose another test.

Minimum Scores Required for Competent English (Test by Test)

If you’re applying for an Australian visa that requires Competent English, here’s what you’ll need to score on each approved test. You must meet the minimum in all four components: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

These minimums are non-negotiable. If your score falls short in even one skill area, it could impact your visa eligibility.

What This Means for Visa Applicants

If you’re just beginning your application or still planning your test, these changes may give you more flexibility in choosing the right test. You can now pick an English test that fits your strengths, location, and format preference, whether it’s computer-based, paper-based, or taken at home.

Just make sure to take the test within three years of submitting your visa application, and hit the required scores across all four components.

Australia is opening the door a bit wider for visa applicants, but it’s also raising the bar slightly. Choose your test carefully, prep well, and make sure your scores are valid and meet the updated standards.

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