Date of the last update: 20.11.2025
Planning to study, work or immigrate to Australia? One of the key steps in the visa application process is proving your English language proficiency. The most commonly used test is the IELTS. But what scores are actually required in 2025?
In this article, you’ll find the current score requirements, levels of English proficiency, visa-specific requirements, and the latest changes introduced on August 7, 2025. Here’s what you need to know before booking your test.
Table of contents:
- English proficiency levels in the Australian Immigration System
- Skilled Migration Visas – What scores count for points?
- Partner and Work and Holiday Visas – Language requirements
- New rules from August 7, 2025 – What’s changed?
- Restrictions on Online Language Tests
- Summary
You can read this article in 4 minutes.
English proficiency levels in the Australian Immigration System
Australia defines English language ability using five official levels, each with its own IELTS score thresholds:
- Functional English – Average score of 4.5 across all test components (Academic or General)
Required for some partner and family visas. - Vocational English – Minimum 5.0 in each component
Required for certain work-related visas. - Competent English – Minimum 6.0 in each component
The baseline requirement for most skilled migration visas. - Proficient English – Minimum 7.0 in each component
Grants 10 points in the skilled migration points system. - Superior English – Minimum 8.0 in each component
Grants 20 points – essential for competitive occupations.
Skilled Migration Visas – What scores count for points?
Some visa pathways leading to permanent residency (PR) in Australia are assessed through a points-based system.
Points are awarded for criteria such as age, English proficiency, education, and work experience.
You can calculate your points using the official calculator on the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) website.
For skilled migration visas (such as Subclass 189, 190, 491), the minimum requirement is Competent English – that is, 6.0 in each IELTS component.
| Proficiency Level | IELTS Requirement | Points |
| Competent English | 6.0 in each component | 0 pkt |
| Proficient English | 7.0 in each component | 10 pkt |
| Superior English | 8.0 in each component | 20 pkt |
To be invited to apply for permanent residency, you need a minimum of 65 points, but in reality, competitive occupations often require 80–90 points.
Partner and Work and Holiday Visas – Language requirements
- Partner Visa (Subclass 820 & 801) – Average IELTS score of 4.5 (Functional English)
- Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462) – Average IELTS score of 4.5 (Functional English)
New rules from August 7, 2025 – What’s changed?
As of August 7, 2025, the Australian government has introduced important updates regarding proof of English proficiency:
- Expanded list of accepted tests
The list of approved English language tests has increased from 5 to 9, and now includes:
- Cambridge C1 Advanced Test (C1 Advanced)
- CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
- IELTS Academic
- IELTS General Training
- LanguageCert Academic
- Michigan English Test (MET)
- Occupational English Test (OET)
- PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
- TOEFL iBT (internet-Based Test)
Validity of Test Results – All tests taken before August 7, 2025, remain valid for up to 3 years, i.e., until August 6, 2028.
Restrictions on Online Language Tests
The Australian government does not accept the results of fully online delivered English language tests, also known as remote-proctored or at-home tests, for visa purposes.
If you’re applying for an Australian visa, you must take your test at an approved test center. Online versions will not be accepted.
Examples of online tests not accepted for visa applications:
- CELPIP Online
- IELTS Online
- LanguageCert Academic Online
- MET Digital (home version)
- OET@Home
- TOEFL iBT – Home Edition
Summary
English language requirements for Australia vary depending on the type of visa. For most skilled and work-related visas, you’ll need a minimum score of 6.0 in each IELTS component (Competent English). Higher scores can earn you up to 20 extra points in the migration points system.
Before starting your visa application, always double-check the required English level on the official website of the Department of Home Affairs to make sure you’re prepared.
