Australia revises list of approved English language tests for visa applications

Australia has updated its English language test requirements for visa applicants, expanding the list of accepted tests from five to nine. The change, which took effect on August 7, 2025, is aimed at giving visa seekers more flexibility and ensuring scoring consistency across different test providers. The update applies to new tests taken from this date onwards, while results from older tests will remain valid for a limited period depending on visa eligibility rules.

The English proficiency needed depends on the visa type, ranging from Functional to Superior English. Each visa subclass has specific score requirements and validity periods. Applicants should verify the criteria on before booking a test.

As per the DHS Australia, all tests must be taken at secure test centres. The department does not accept remote or at-home versions of these tests.

What has changed

The Department of Home Affairs said the update aims to ensure consistent scoring across test providers while making it easier for applicants to choose a suitable test. The change applies to most visa categories that require proof of English proficiency, but the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) will follow the new rules from September 13, 2025.

Newly accepted tests

For tests taken on or after August 7, 2025, the department will accept scores from:

• Cambridge C1 Advanced (C1 Advanced)
• Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program General (CELPIP General)
• IELTS Academic (including One Skill Retake)
• IELTS General Training (including One Skill Retake)
• LanguageCert Academic Test
• Michigan English Test (MET, including Single Section Retake)
• Occupational English Test (OET)
• Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)
• TOEFL iBT

Transition rules

Tests taken on or before August 6, 2025 under the old list remain valid for certain timeframes depending on the visa subclass, with results usable until 6 August 2028 for some visas. The previous list included Cambridge English (C1 Advanced), IELTS, PTE Academic, OET, and TOEFL iBT.

Validity and requirements

Applicants must ensure they meet the score requirements for their specific visa and that the test was taken at a secure test centre. Online or at-home versions of these tests are not accepted. Disallowed formats include CELPIP Online, IELTS Online, LanguageCert Academic Online, MET Digital (at home), OET@Home, and TOEFL iBT Home Edition.

The department says the changes will help manage immigration risk while ensuring new migrants have the English skills needed to participate fully in Australian life. The accepted tests cover various formats and regions, offering more choice for applicants worldwide.