What Are the English Language Requirements for Australian Visas?
English language test requirements for Australian skilled migration - which tests are accepted, minimum scores, and how English affects your points.
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English test requirements
English proficiency is both a visa requirement and a points category.
Minimum requirement
Competent English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent) is required for most skilled visas.
Points for English
- Competent (IELTS 6.0): 0 points
- Proficient (IELTS 7.0): 10 points
- Superior (IELTS 8.0+): 20 points
Improving your English score is often the fastest way to boost your points. Read our comparison of IELTS vs PTE vs TOEFL and use the points calculator to see the impact.
Giles Butler 10 years navigating the Australian visa system first-hand - WHV to PR to Citizenship
Frequently asked questions.
Answers to commonly asked questions about our platform
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Which English tests does Australia accept?
IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1 Advanced, and OET (for healthcare professionals) are all accepted for skilled migration.
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What is the minimum English score?
Competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent) is the minimum for most skilled visas. Higher scores earn additional migration points.
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Are there exemptions from English testing?
Citizens of the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, and New Zealand are generally exempt from English testing for migration purposes. Some other exemptions may apply.