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The comprehensive comparison of the English language proficiency levels required for different Australian visas, including the accepted tests, minimum scores, and the specific visas each proficiency level is eligible for.

Comparison of English Language Requirements for Australian Visas

Proficiency LevelRequirementsTests & ScoresVisa Eligibility
FunctionalCitizen of UK, USA, Canada, NZ, or Ireland. Degree, diploma, or school study in English.- IELTS: Avg. band 4.5
- TOEFL iBT: Total 32
- PTE: Total 30 - Cambridge: Total 147
- Partner Visas
- Parent Visas
VocationalCitizen of UK, USA, Canada, NZ, or Ireland. Test results within 3 years.- IELTS: 5 each
- TOEFL iBT: 4, 4, 14, 14
- PTE: 36 each
- OET: B each
- Cambridge: 154 each
- TSS (482)
- ENS (186)
- RSMS (187)
CompetentCitizen of UK, USA, Canada, NZ, or Ireland. Test results within 3 years.- IELTS: 6 each
- TOEFL iBT: 12, 13, 21, 18
- PTE: 50 each
- OET: B each
- Cambridge: 169 each
- Skilled Independent (189)
- Skilled Nominated (190)
- Skilled Regional (491)
- Temporary Graduate (485)
- Business (188)
ProficientTest results within 3 years.- IELTS: 7 each
- TOEFL iBT: 24, 24, 27, 23
- PTE: 65 each
- OET: B each
- Cambridge: 185 each
- Skilled Independent (189)
- Skilled Nominated (190)
- Skilled Regional (491)
SuperiorTest results within 3 years.- IELTS: 8 each
- TOEFL iBT: 28, 29, 30, 26
- PTE: 79 each
- OET: A each
- Cambridge: 200 each
- Skilled Independent (189)
- Skilled Nominated (190)
- Skilled Regional (491)

Accepted English Tests and Score Requirements for Australian Visas

TestFunctionalVocationalCompetentProficientSuperior
IELTSAvg. band 4.5At least 5 eachAt least 6 eachAt least 7 eachAt least 8 each
PTE AcademicTotal 30At least 36 eachAt least 50 eachAt least 65 eachAt least 79 each
Cambridge C1 AdvancedTotal 147At least 154 eachAt least 169 eachAt least 185 eachAt least 200 each
OETN/AAt least B eachAt least B eachAt least B eachAt least A each
TOEFL iBTTotal 324 listening, 4 reading, 14 writing, 14 speaking12 listening, 13 reading, 21 writing, 18 speaking24 listening, 24 reading, 27 writing, 23 speaking28 listening, 29 reading, 30 writing, 26 speaking

English language skills (Points table for Skilled Independent visa)

EnglishPoints
Competent English0
Proficient English10
Superior English20

Accepted English Tests for Australian Visas

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

  • Description: Tests your English in listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
  • Modules: Two types - General Training (for migration) and Academic (for higher education).
  • Format: Four sections. Speaking test may be on a different day.

2. PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

  • Description: Computer-based test for listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
  • Format: Includes 20 different tasks, all done on a computer. Known for quick results.

3. Cambridge English: Advanced (C1 Advanced)

  • Description: High-level English test for academic and professional purposes.
  • Format: Tests reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Speaking test is face-to-face.

4. OET (Occupational English Test)

  • Description: English test for healthcare professionals.
  • Format: Four parts - listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Focuses on medical contexts.

5. TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

  • Description: Internet-based test for university-level English skills.
  • Format: Four sections - reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Speaking is done via computer.

Comparison Table

TestDescriptionModules/FormatPurpose
IELTSTests listening, reading, writing, and speaking.General Training and Academic modules. Four sections.For migration and higher education.
PTE AcademicComputer-based test for all four skills.20 tasks on a computer.For higher education and migration.
C1 AdvancedHigh-level test for academic/professional use.Four skills tested.For higher education, professional registration, and migration.
OETEnglish test for healthcare professionals.Four parts, medical focus.For healthcare registration and practice.
TOEFL iBTTests university-level English skills.Four sections.For university admissions and migration.

Understanding the different accepted tests and their score requirements is crucial for your visa application process. If you have any further questions or need assistance with your test preparation, please do not hesitate to reach out. Best of luck on your journey to Australia!


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