English-language proficiency is a core requirement for the Australian student visa (Subclass 500). Depending on your course level and country of origin, you must demonstrate English-language ability through an approved test. This guide covers accepted tests, required score bands by course level, and exemptions.
Accepted English-language tests
Home Affairs and Australian education providers recognise these English-language tests:
| Test | Provider | Score format | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | British Council, IDP IELTS, Cambridge ESOL | Band score: 0–9 | Most widely used for student visas globally |
| TOEFL iBT | Educational Testing Service (ETS) | Score: 0–120 | Popular in North America; accepted by most Australian providers |
| Pearson English Test (PTE) | Pearson | Score: 10–90 | Computer-based; faster results (3–5 days) |
| Occupational English Test (OET) | Cambridge Assessment English | Band: A–E (A highest) | For health professionals; accepted by universities with health courses |
| Cambridge English Qualifications | Cambridge Assessment English | Grade: A–E | CEFR-linked; accepted if at required level |
Note: Test scores are usually valid for 2–3 years. Your course provider will confirm which tests they accept and the minimum required score.
English-language requirements by course level
Secondary school (years 7–12)
| Course Level | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE | OET |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 7–9 | 4.5–5.5 | 35–46 | 30–42 | B–C |
| Year 10–12 | 5.5–6.0 | 46–60 | 42–50 | B–A |
Note: Secondary students who studied in an English-language school system for 6+ years may be exempted from testing. Ask your school provider.
Vocational / diploma (VET courses)
| Qualification | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE | Cambridge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate III–IV | 5.5 | 46–60 | 42–50 | B2 |
| Diploma / Advanced Diploma | 6.0 | 60–78 | 50–58 | B2–C1 |
Undergraduate (bachelor degree)
| Level | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE | Cambridge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard entry | 6.0–6.5 | 60–78 | 50–58 | B2–C1 |
| Some universities | 6.5–7.0 | 78–87 | 58–65 | C1 |
Postgraduate (master’s, research)
| Level | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE | Cambridge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taught master’s | 6.5 | 78–87 | 58–65 | C1 |
| Research/doctorate | 7.0+ | 87–100 | 65–79 | C1–C2 |
Important note: Individual universities and courses set their own English requirements. Some may require higher scores for certain programs (e.g., engineering, medicine). Always check your course provider’s specific requirements; the above are general guidelines.
Test details and how to register
IELTS Academic
- Test frequency: Available monthly (or more) in most countries.
- Test duration: 2 hours 45 minutes (listening, reading, writing, speaking).
- Cost: Approximately A$250–$300 USD equivalent.
- Results timeline: 10–13 days.
- Registration: ielts.org
- Accepted bands: 5.0–9.0; most student visas require 5.5–7.0+.
TOEFL iBT
- Test frequency: Multiple dates per month.
- Test duration: 2 hours (no break).
- Cost: Approximately A$200–$250 USD.
- Results timeline: 3–10 days.
- Registration: ets.org/toefl
- Accepted scores: 0–120; most student visas require 46–87.
Pearson English Test (PTE)
- Test frequency: Multiple dates per month; computer-based and fast.
- Test duration: 2 hours.
- Cost: Approximately A$200–$280 AUD.
- Results timeline: 3–5 days (fastest of major tests).
- Registration: pearsonpte.com
- Accepted scores: 10–90; most student visas require 42–65.
Occupational English Test (OET)
- Test frequency: Multiple dates per year (limited to health professionals).
- Test duration: 2 hours 44 minutes.
- Cost: Approximately A$500–$600 AUD.
- Results timeline: 5–10 days.
- Registration: occupationalenglishtest.org
- Note: For nurses, doctors, dentists, and other health professionals; not accepted for non-health courses.
Cambridge English Qualifications
- Test frequency: Multiple dates per year.
- Test duration: 3–4 hours (depending on qualification level).
- Cost: Approximately A$200–$400.
- Results timeline: 2–6 weeks.
- Registration: cambridgeenglish.org
- Levels: Key, Preliminary, First (B1–B2), Advanced, Proficiency (C1–C2). Bachelor and above typically require First or Advanced.
Exemptions from English-language testing
You may be exempt from providing an English-language test result if:
1. English-language background
You are a citizen of (or have lived 5+ years in) a majority-English-speaking country, such as:
- Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom, United States of America, South Africa.
- Some providers also include: Germany, France, Japan (depending on the provider).
2. Prior English-language study
You completed secondary school or tertiary study (degree, diploma) through English-language medium in a CRICOS-registered provider or recognised international institution. Evidence required: school transcript or certificate in English.
3. Provider-approved alternative pathway
Some providers offer in-house English testing or conditional offers with English-language bridging courses. If you fail to meet the minimum test score, you may be offered a place conditional on completing a short intensive English course (e.g., 4–20 weeks) before starting your main course.
4. Country-specific exemptions
Some countries have bilateral arrangements with Australia (e.g., some Pacific Island nations). Check with your course provider.
Check with your provider: Always verify exemptions with your education provider before assuming you do not need to test.
English language bridging courses
If you miss the minimum English-language score by a small margin (e.g., 0.5 band on IELTS), your provider may offer a conditional place with a requirement to complete an English-language bridging course:
- Duration: 4–20 weeks, depending on the gap and course level.
- Cost: A$3,000–$8,000.
- Timing: Usually completed before starting your main course.
- Provider: Often run by the same university or a partner English-language centre.
- CoE: You will receive a separate CoE for the bridging course, then a new CoE for your main course once the bridging course is completed.
Preparing for your English-language test
Study timeline
- Start 8–12 weeks before your target test date to allow time for multiple attempts if needed.
- Book your test early to secure a preferred date and location.
Study resources
- Official test provider materials: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Cambridge all provide official practice tests and study guides on their websites.
- Private tutoring: Many education centres offer English test preparation courses (6–12 weeks).
- Online courses: Platforms like Khan Academy, IDP, British Council offer IELTS/TOEFL prep.
- University pathways: Some Australian universities offer pre-arrival English support.
Test-taking tips
- Read instructions carefully: Understand the format before test day.
- Manage your time: Allocate time to each section; do not spend too long on difficult questions.
- Speak clearly (speaking test): Maintain eye contact, speak at natural pace, vary your vocabulary.
- Plan your written answers: Outline your essay before writing.
Retaking English-language tests
If you do not achieve the required score:
- IELTS: Retake in 3 weeks if it is a paper test, or 1 week if you test multiple times per month.
- TOEFL: You can retake every 12 calendar days.
- PTE: You can retake every 5 calendar days.
- Cambridge: Usually offered 2–4 times per year; retakes typically 3 months apart.
Most course providers will accept your best test score. However, if you are struggling, consider a bridging course instead.
Fake test results and fraud
Home Affairs and universities monitor for fraudulent test results. If you are caught submitting false test scores:
- Your visa application will be refused.
- You may face bans on future Australian visa applications (5–10 years).
- You may be liable for criminal charges in some cases.
- Your education provider will cancel your enrolment and CoE.
Always take legitimate tests through official test providers.
FAQ
Q: Which English test is easiest or fastest? A: PTE is fastest to results (3–5 days). IELTS is most widely recognised globally. TOEFL is popular in North America. Choose based on your strengths and test availability in your country.
Q: Can I take the English test online? A: TOEFL iBT and PTE are entirely online. IELTS now offers online options in many countries. Cambridge tests are usually in-centre. Check availability in your location.
Q: What if I am a native English speaker but have no test? A: Provide evidence of English-medium education (e.g., school certificate from an English-speaking country, or an English-language degree). If you cannot provide evidence, you may need to take a test.
Q: Do I need to submit my English test result with my visa application? A: Your education provider verifies your English-language status before issuing your CoE. You do not typically need to submit test results to Home Affairs; your CoE confirms you meet the provider’s English requirements.
Q: Can my education provider require a higher English score than Home Affairs? A: Yes. Individual providers set their own English requirements, which may be higher than the government minimum.
Q: What if my test expires before my visa is granted? A: Test scores are usually valid for 2–3 years. If your test expires during processing, you may need to retake the test. Check your provider’s policy.
Q: Is there an age limit for English tests? A: No. You can take English tests at any age. However, results are valid for 2–3 years.
Sources
- IELTS: ielts.org
- TOEFL: ets.org/toefl
- Pearson English Test: pearsonpte.com
- Occupational English Test: occupationalenglishtest.org
- Cambridge English: cambridgeenglish.org
- Student visa requirements: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-visa-500
Last reviewed: April 2026. Visa rules and charges change frequently — always verify on immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.