What language score is required to immigrate to Australia? The answer depends on the type of visa, the date you took the test, and your purpose for providing a language certificate. For example, a person seeking permanent residency through skilled migration may need a different score and requirements than graduating when applying for a temporary visa. Therefore, a language score for immigration to Australia is not the same for all applicants.
According to the regulations of the Australian Department of Home Affairs, approved tests, minimum scores and deadlines for submission of documents are determined based on the immigration pathway. Also, achieving the minimum score required to obtain a visa is different from achieving a higher score to increase the Skilled Migration Score. In this guide, we will look at IELTS and PTE scores, other valid tests, exemptions, the validity period of the documents, and the steps to choose the right test. In addition to language planning, you can use the services Newox Exchange for immigration foreign exchange matters.
The language score for immigration to Australia depends on the type of visa, the immigration path, and the applicant's circumstances. To determine the required score, you must first determine in which way you intend to immigrate and what level of language is necessary for your case.
The language requirements are not always the same for the main applicant and accompanying family members. For example, the main applicant for the Australian Independent Skilled Visa (Subclass 189) in the points track must have a minimum level of Competent English when receiving the invitation. This requirement does not necessarily apply to other visas or accompanying applicants.
Achieving a minimum language score is different from receiving additional points in the skilled immigration system. For example, the Competent English level meets the minimum language requirement of visa 189, but does not have a language score. In contrast, higher levels can generate more points.
|
Language level |
Skill Immigration Score |
|
Competent English |
0 |
|
Proficient English |
10 |
|
Superior English |
20 |
These points only belong to the language section of the Skilled Immigration Scoring System and are not applicable to all Australian visas. Also, the Superior level has a total of 20 points, not 20 points in addition to the Proficient level. For financial planning for exams, preparation courses and re-entry, check " Australian dollar rate also helps to estimate costs.
The language score for immigration to Australia depends on the type of visa, the immigration path, and the applicant's circumstances. To determine the appropriate score, you must first determine how you intend to immigrate and whether you only need a minimum language score or if you want to score more.
The language requirements are not always the same for the main applicant and accompanying family members. For example, the main applicant for an Independent Skilled Visa (Subclass 189) must have a minimum level of Competent English when receiving an invitation. This requirement does not necessarily apply to other visas. If you are still uncertain about choosing a destination country, checking the requirements Australia or Canada? can help you understand the difference between migration pathways. Also, in some skilled migration routes, it is important to choose a destination among "Australian states.
In contrast, the minimum IELTS Academic and General scores for these three levels are still 6, 7 and 8 in all four skills, respectively. Achieving a high average alone is not enough, and each skill must have a set minimum score.
Changing the rules does not mean that all previous language documents will be invalid. Some test results held before August 7, 2025, will still be usable, depending on the type of visa and transfer conditions. However, this does not mean that all old documents will be valid until August 2028.
For example, Functional English test documents must be from 12 months prior to the registration of the visa application under the current regulations. Therefore, the result of a test taken before 7 August 2025 cannot meet this time requirement for a new application submitted in October 2026, although there may be other ways to prove this language level.
forTo avoid potential problems, compare the test date with when you submit your application or receive an invitation, and check your visa-specific requirements on the official Home Affairs website.
You must be familiar with the five official levels of English to determine a language score for immigration to Australia. These levels are not separate tests, but are criteria for assessing an applicant's language proficiency. The type of visa determines which level you need and what documents you can use to prove it.
The level of Functional English indicates a basic ability in the English language and is applicable to some immigration applications, especially for accompanying applicants. To prove this level through IELTS, the average score of the four skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking must be at least 4.5. However, in certain circumstances, educational qualifications, passports or other approved methods can also replace the test result.
Vocational English level is a separate criterion that applies to some business migration routes. The minimum acceptable grades and documents at this level must be checked under the same visa regulations. For example, people who intend to to buy a business in Australia and explore business immigration pathways should not assume that their language requirements are necessarily the same as those for work visa applicants. Having a Functional level does not imply Vocational or Competent, and each level has its own independent requirements.
Competent English is one of the basic language requirements on some skill visas. To obtain this level through IELTS Academic or General, you must obtain a minimum score of 6 in all four skills. Therefore, an average of 6 is not enough, and no skill should have a score of less than 6. Eligible citizens of Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the United States can also prove this level by presenting a valid passport from the relevant country. Importantly, Competent English does not have a language score in the Skilled Immigration Scoring System, even if it meets the minimum language requirement of the visa.
These two levels indicate higher English language proficiency and can increase an applicant's score on skill migration pathways. For Proficient level, you must score at least a score of 7 in all four skills and a minimum score of 8 for Superior. A high overall score cannot compensate for a lack of score in one of the skills. The table below shows the difference between language levels and their scores:
|
Language level |
Minimum IELTS score |
Language Score in Skill Migration |
|
Functional |
Average 4.5 |
— |
|
Vocational |
According to the relevant regulations . |
— |
|
Competent |
6 per skill |
0 |
|
Proficient |
7 per skill |
10 |
|
Superior |
8 per skill |
20 |
These points only apply to points-based skill migration pathways. Obtaining a higher level can improve an applicant's position in the scoring system, but it alone does not guarantee receipt of an invitation or visa. Also, for other pathways, such as using Australian Scholarships, you should check the university's language requirements and the scholarship program separately.
To check a language score for immigrating to Australia, it is not enough just to know the total IELTS or PTE score. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has set specific minimum scores for different language levels, which vary depending on the type of test and the date it was held.
IELTS is administered in two types: Academic and General Training, and both are approved to prove Competent, Proficient and Superior levels in immigration to Australia. However, you should also check the specific visa requirements and other relevant bodies.
At these three levels, a minimum score of all four skills is important: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. For example, Competent requires a score of at least 6, Proficient requires a score of 7, and Superior requires a score of 8 in each skill. Importantly, an overall IELTS score cannot compensate for a weakness in a skill. Even if your average score is high, a score below the prescribed level in a skill will prevent you from achieving that level. However, the requirements for Functional English vary. To prove this level with IELTS, the average of four skills must be at least 4.5, and each skill does not have to have a score of 4.5 individually.
As of August 7, 2025, the minimum PTE Academic scores required to immigrate to Australia have changed. Unlike the old tables that set a specific score for all skills, the current thresholds for each skill are different.
|
Language level |
IELTS Academic or General |
PTE Auditory |
PTE Reading |
PTE Writing |
Speech PTE |
|
Competent |
At least 6 in each skill |
47 |
48 |
51 |
54 |
|
Proficient |
At least 7 in each skill |
58 |
59 |
69 |
76 |
|
Superior |
At least 8 in each skill |
69 |
70 |
85 |
88 |
These numbers are the current minimum Home Affairs scores for specific language categories and should not be considered as the same requirements for all Australian visas. For example, a Superior level applicant on the PTE test must have a minimum score of 69 in Listening, 70 in Reading, 85 in Writing, and 88 in Speaking. Achieving a higher score in one skill does not compensate for a lack of a score on the other. Requirements for Functional English on PTE vary. For tests held from 7 August 2025, a total score of at least 24 can meet the score requirement for this level. This number is related to the total score and does not imply a minimum score of 24 in each skill. Before enrolling in the test, specify the language level required for your visa. Then compare the scores of each skill with the table corresponding to the same level so that you do not prepare for a test aimed at the wrong score.
If you took the PTE exam before August 7, 2025, you should compare your scores with the old table.
|
Language level |
Minimum PTE score in each skill |
|
Competent |
50 |
|
Proficient |
65 |
|
Superior |
79 |
This table applies only to old qualifying results that are still acceptable according to the relevant visa regulations and timeframe. Therefore, these scores cannot be used as the purpose of the new test.
Suppose the applicant scoresIt has received the following:
|
Auditory |
Read More |
Writing |
Speech |
|
8 |
8 |
6.5 |
8 |
The raw average of these scores is 7.625 and the reported total IELTS score is 7.5. However, a score of 6.5 in writing skills prevents an applicant from reaching Proficient level, as they must have a minimum score of 7 in all four skills for this level. This result meets the Competent requirement in terms of skill scores.
Suppose the applicant received the following scores:
|
Auditory |
Read More |
Writing |
Speech |
|
75 |
75 |
85 |
87 |
In the PTE exams held from August 7, 2025, the minimum speaking score for Superior is 88. Therefore, a score of 87, despite good performance in other skills, is not enough to meet this level. Of course, these scores meet the Proficient threshold. Finally, the main criterion is to reach the minimum score of each skill at the level required by the visa. The test date, the validity of the document, and the specific requirements of the immigration application must also be reviewed at the same time.
?
IELTS and PTE are not the only proving language proficiency options for immigrating to Australia. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has approved several other tests as well. However, acceptance of each test depends on the type of visa, the version of the test and the date it was held, and the fact that a test is on the official list does not mean that it will be accepted for all visas.
According to regulations that came into effect on August 7, 2025, Home Affairs' approved options include:
IELTS Academic and General are two versions of the same test family, not two independent families. So the list above contains 9 test options from 8 families.
The language test must be taken at an official and approved centre. Fully online, home or remotely supervised versions such as IELTS Online, TOEFL iBT Home Edition and OET@Home are not accepted for immigration purposes. However, computer-based tests held at official centres are allowed and should not be confused with home versions. If you are planning to take the TOEFL iBT, you will need to select the "Taking TOEFL for Australia" option when registering so that the test result can be used for immigration checks. Admission to IELTS One Skill Retake and MET Single Section Retake also depends on the visa regulations in question. Before paying for the test or re-taking the exam, make sure you accept the chosen version, the conditions of the venue and the deadline for submission of the result.
The language score for immigration to Australia is not the same across all immigration pathways. Skills, work, student and family visas each have specific requirements. For this reason, you should check the type of visa and your status as a main or accompanying applicant in addition to the type of visa before choosing the test. The table below shows the most important ones that can be checked in each pathway:
|
Migration Path |
Things the applicant should check |
Official Reference |
|
Privileged Skill Migration |
Minimum language level, claimed score, and time to submit the certificate |
Visa page and scoreboard |
|
Employer-Sponsored Immigration |
Visa Subcategory, Branch, Test Scores, and Exemptions |
Related Work Visa Page |
|
Student Visa |
Grade Requirements, Degree Requirements and Blended Training Courses |
500 Visa Requirements |
|
Temporary Graduate Visa |
Grades and deadlines for submission of degrees in each discipline |
Related Branch Page of Visa 485 |
|
Accompanying Applicants |
Requiring a language certificate or paying an additional fee |
Companion Regulations and Visa Fees |
In skilled migration, a language score can be both a prerequisite for obtaining a visa and affect an applicant's score. For example, the main applicant for an independent skilled visa (subclass 189) in the points track must be invited upon receipt of an invitationThe letter must have a minimum level of Competent English.
In this system, the Competent level does not have a language score, but Proficient and Superior generate 10 and 20 points, respectively. However, receiving a higher score alone does not guarantee an invitation, and factors such as age, work experience, education, and other case requirements also matter.
Applicants planning to enter the Australian labour market should check the list of jobs in Australia in addition to the language requirements. Choosing the right job and migration route should be done before determining the language target score.
On employer-sponsored work visas, the language requirements depend on the subcategory and category of the visa. For example, the main applicant for a Skills in Demand visa with subclass 482 must prove a designated English language proficiency, unless they are subject to one of the statutory exemptions.
Important note is that receiving employer support does not imply an automatic exemption from the language test. Also, you should not use general skill immigration scores without reviewing the specific provisions for the 482 visa. Before proceeding, check the minimum scores of each skill, acceptable tests, the validity date of the result, and the exemption requirements on the official 482 visa page.
The language requirements of the Australian student visa (subclass 500) are different from those of skilled visas. The minimum score required can vary based on the type of course of study and the applicant's requirements. For example, some English language courses, introductory courses and blended learning pathways have different grade regulations.
Also, some applicants, based on the type of course, nationality or previous educational history, may be subject to an exemption from submitting a test result. However, university admission and the language requirements of the student visa must be reviewed separately. Along with the cost of the test and tuition fees, the estimate of the "The cost of living in Australia is also important for financial planning for the period of study.
For a temporary graduate visa (subclass 485), one should not be satisfied with the phrase "Competent English". For example, in Post-Higher Education Work, the minimum standard IELTS score is 6.5 overall and 5.5 in each skill, and the test result must be received within the time frame set before the application is submitted. Some holders of certain passports also have different requirements, so the applicant must separately review the regulations of the relevant branch, minimum scores, accepted tests, and deadlines for submission of the certificate.
The language requirements of family members are not always the same as those of the main applicant. For example, on some skilled visas, if the accompanying applicant over the age of 18 does not have a level of Functional English, it may be necessary to pay an additional visa fee. A distinction must also be made between the spouse or child accompanying the accompanying spouse and the person applying for a spouse visa independently. The rules for these applications are not the same.
If the original applicant intends to receiveIf the immigration privilege is a skill of your spouse's qualifications, it may also be necessary to prove a certain level of the spouse's language. Therefore, before submitting an application, check each family member's language requirements, acceptable documents, and possible fees based on the type of visa.
In the Australian Skilled Migration Scoring System, a language score can add up to 20 points to an applicant's total scores. This score depends on the level of the language proven and is only one of the criteria for evaluating the case.
According to the official Home Affairs Ranking Table, the three language levels Competent, Proficient and Superior have different scores in the Skilled Migration System:
|
Language level |
English Language Score |
|
Competent |
0 |
|
Proficient |
10 |
|
Superior |
20 |
Competent level can meet the minimum language requirement of some skill visas, but it does not have additional points. In contrast, the Proficient level adds ten points and the Superior level adds 20 points to the file. These points do not add up. For example, upgrading from Proficient to Superior only creates another 10 points, rather than adding 20 new points to the previous 10. Also, this table is for the language section of Skilled Migration and does not apply to all Australian visas.
Suppose the applicant has scored 60 points on criteria such as age, education, and work experience, not including language. In this situation, his/her total score is calculated by changing the language level as follows:
|
Language level |
Score other metrics |
Language Score |
Total Points |
|
Competent |
60 |
0 |
60 |
|
Proficient |
60 |
10 |
70 |
|
Superior |
60 |
20 |
80 |
This hypothetical example is onlyIt is to explain the method of calculation, and the evaluation is not considered a real case. As you can see, upgrading the language level from Competent to Proficient can increase the total score from 60 to 70. The subsequent upgrade to Superior will also increase the total score to 80. Of course, the applicant must be able to prove all the declared points with valid documents.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs reviews applicants for an invitation based on information recorded in the Expression of Interest or EOI and the requirements of the immigration program. Although the minimum score threshold for some skill paths is 65, reaching this number or even higher is not a guarantee of receiving an invitation. Job conditions, competition among applicants, and other selection criteria are also important, so it is best to assess the language score alongside other parts of the case, rather than as the only factor for success in immigration.
In some situations, it is possible to prove English language proficiency without taking a test. However, this depends on the level of language required by the visa and the type of documents that Home Affairs accepts. Having a passport or educational degree alone does not create an exemption for all applicants.
According to Competent English, citizens of the following countries who hold a valid passport issued from the same country can prove their Competent level by:
In order to use this method, it is necessary to have a valid citizenship and passport of the relevant country. Therefore, residence, employment, or study in these countries alone does not replace these documents. It is also only used to prove a certain level of language and does not imply an exemption from all language requirements on all visas.
For the Functional English level, some academic records can also replace the test result. One of the approved methods is to have a university degree, diploma, or qualifying skill certificate that requires at least two years of full-time study or training in English. In addition, some other educational records are accepted, including:
In all of these cases, the duration of the study, the type of course, and the language of instruction are important. Therefore, it cannot be said that any university degree issued in English or that the course was in English is sufficient to prove functional.
<h3style="text-align: justify;" >Why doesn't a test waiver necessarily create extra points?
Methods that prove a Functional or Competent level are not necessarily sufficient to meet Proficient and Superior levels. These two higher levels require specific scores on approved tests. For example, a person who has demonstrated a Competent level with a valid passport does not receive 10 or 20 language points simply for this reason. As a result, an exemption from taking the exam is different from receiving a higher language score, and the requirements of each level must be independently reviewed.
The validity period of a language certificate for immigration to Australia depends on the type of visa, language level, and the date the test was held. Contrary to popular belief, there is no fixed timeframe for all Australian tests and
visas.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs has set different time frames for the submission of language documents. For example, in some Competent English situations, test results can be used over a three-year period, but their acceptance will still depend on the visa regulations in question.
In contrast, according to the official page of Functional English, the test result must be from 12 months before the visa application is submitted. The important thing is that the date of the basis for the review of the documents is not always the same. In some routes, the time of receipt of the invitation is important, and in others, the date of the application is the criterion, so before using the previous document, you should check if the test result is within the time frame allowed by the same visa.
After the change in the language test regulations on 7 August 2025, some old results were considered transitional periods. At some levels, such as Competent, the results of exams held until 6 August 2025 may be valid until 6 August 2028, depending on the type of visa and compliance with the relevant validity period. This date does not mean that all old documents are automatically valid. Functional English requirements vary. The transition period for the old test results of this level, depending on the type of visa, has lasted until 6 August 2026. Also, the requirement to submit the test result in the 12-month period prior to the submission of the application must still be met, so the end date of the Functional transition period should not be confused with the wider period for some other levels.
To avoid the expiration of the certificate or the use of the wrong grade table, it is best to specify the following information before submitting the application:
|
Case to be Considered |
Information Required |
|
Exam Date |
The exact day of taking the exam |
|
Applicable Grade Table |
Regulations before or after August 7, 2025 |
|
Time of invitation or request |
Date of receipt of invitation or visa registration |
|
Validity Period of the Degree |
Duration allowed under the same visa regulations |
|
Possible retest time |
Enough opportunity to get a new result |
If there is a large gap between the test time and the submission of the application, check the validity requirements again before applying. A sufficient score is applicable when the certificate is acceptable at the time required.
The choice between IELTS and PTE depends on the applicant's current level of language, the score required, and the applicant's personal circumstances. None of these tests are easier or more suitable for everyone. The best choice is the one that suits your abilities and the result is accepted for the visa in question.
Before choosing the test, specify the minimum score required in the four skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking. Then measure your performance using validated mock tests that simulate the formal structure of IELTS or PTE. For example, you may perform well in the IELTS writing section, but you will need more practice in the structure of PTE questions. This difference is related to individual skills and familiarity with the way the test is administered and cannot be generalized to all applicants.
Compare the results of each test with the corresponding quorum and see which skill you are the closest to your target score in which skill. Note that test scores are purely for assessment of readiness and do not guarantee the outcome of the main test. Home Affairs accepts both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training versions for the skill levels discussed. However, if another university or professional body also requires you to have a language certificate, check the requirements separately.
After comparing performance, check the test performance requirements in the country of registration. Access to official centres, test capacity, dates to be held, registration fee, and the possibility of re-participation are important selection factors. If you need accessibility facilities, make arrangements with the organiser before booking, as it will take more time to provide some facilities. Also, check the conditions for cancelling or changing the exam date, when the results will be announced, and acceptance to retake a skill. This information may change according to the centre and the organiser. Remember that the computerised test at the official centre is different from the home test. Home Affairs does not accept fully online, remotely supervised versions for immigration purposes.
it
The five questions to choose the right test are as follows:
By answering these questions and checking the official IELTS and PTE information, you can make a choice that suits your circumstances.
Once you have chosen the test, you need to make a realistic plan to prepare, fund and get the result. Proper planning will help you have enough time to fix your weaknesses and re-participate before the deadline for submitting your degree.
First, confirm the language level required for your visa. Then take an accredited placement test and compare the scores of the four skills with the minimum required scores. It is best to prioritize the skill that is farthest from the target score, but do not stop practicing other skills. The preparation plan should be adjusted based on your current level, free time, and actual progress. For example, it cannot be guaranteed that all applicants will reach the Superior level in four weeks.
The cost of obtaining a language certificate is not limited to the test registration amount. Educational resources, commuting, date changes, and the possibility of re-participation should also be included in the budget.
|
Type of Fee |
Action Required |
|
Exam Cost |
Check the current amount in the country of registration |
|
Test Preparation |
Separation of Essential Resources from Optional Classes |
|
Commuting |
Calculating the cost of transportation and possible accommodation |
|
Re-Participation |
Allocation of Prudential Budget |
|
Administrative Fees |
Check the cost of changing the date or get an additional report |
If you are paying for the exam or other services in foreign currency, include the currency exchange rate and payment fee in your calculations. Currency services only help manage payments and do not affect visa acceptance requirements.
It's best not to base your entire plan on passing the first test. To mitigate the risk, follow these steps:
If you are planning to take the IELTS One Skill Retake, first make sure that the visa in question accepts the result of this type of re-entry.
Sometimes the applicant gets a good score, but due to an invalid test selection or wrong interpretation of the rules, he or she cannot use his result. The most important errors and how to correct them are:
To avoid these issues, check the official Home Affairs regulations before registering and declaring points.
Choosing a language test to immigrate to Australia is not just about getting a high score. More importantly, it is to provide proofThat matches the visa requirements, the language level required, and the legal deadline for the case. A score may be appropriate for a skilled visa applicant, but there may be different requirements for a student visa or temporary graduation.
To get started, specify the subcategory and category of your visa, and then check the minimum scores of each skill, the tests accepted, and the validity period of the result. If you are applying through the Skilled Migration Pathway, also consider the difference between the minimum language score and the score needed to get more points. Next, set up your preparation plan and budget by taking valid mock tests, and have enough time to re-participate. The ultimate goal is not just to obtain a language degree, but to provide a valid document that fits your immigration path.
Is it necessary to have an IELTS certificate to immigrate to Australia?
No. IELTS is not the only approved test, and options such as PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT , and a few other tests are also accepted. Some applicants can also use non-test methods. As we explained in the Approved Tests section, the acceptance of each option depends on the visa requirements.
Is IELTS 6 enough to get permanent residency in Australia?
No, IELTS 6 alone does not guarantee permanent residency. A minimum score of 6 in all four skills proves a level of Competent English, but other visa requirements must also be met. Also, this level does not have a language score in the Skilled Immigration Scoring System.
What score is required on the PTE exam to reach the level of Superior English?
For tests held from 7 August 2025, the minimum PTE scores are 69 in Listening, 70 in Reading, 85 in Writing, and 88 in Speaking. All skills must meet the threshold. We have reviewed the full table of these scores in the IELTS and PTE Comparison section.
Are both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training accepted?
Yes, both copies are accepted to prove the Competent, Proficient and Superior levels in the General Home Affairs Regulations. However, the relevant university or professional body may request a specific copy. Therefore, before enrolling, check the requirements for other sections of the case in addition to the immigration requirements.
Can I use the result of a language test held before August 7, 2025?
Yes, it is possible to use old results in some circumstances. However, their acceptance depends on the type of visa, the test date, and the time frame allowed. The transition period for some documents runs until August 2028, but this does not include all results.
Is the IELTS One Skill Retake test accepted for immigration to Australia?
Yes, but only in visas that have provisionsThey allow it. This method allows you to retake an IELTS skill, but the acceptance of the result is not the same for all visas. Before you register, check the conditions of the organizer and the regulations of the visa in question.
Does having a degree in English eliminate the need to take a language test?
No, not in all circumstances. Some qualifying qualifications and educational records can be used to prove Functional English. For example, some documents require at least two years of full-time instruction in English. This method does not automatically prove higher levels of the language.
Does the Superior English level guarantee a visa invitation?
No. The Superior level in the Skilled Immigration Scoring System generates 20 language points, but receiving an invitation also depends on other requirements of the case and the applicant selection process. Even reaching the minimum required score is not a guarantee that you will receive an invitation.
