New English Language Test Changes for Australian Visas Effective August 7, 2025

Australia has officially updated its English language test requirements for visa applicants, with major changes coming into effect from August 7, 2025. These updates impact students, skilled migrants, and temporary graduates, making it crucial for applicants to stay informed. Below is a complete guide to the new rules, approved tests, score requirements, and validity periods.

Why These Changes Matter

English language proficiency plays a vital role in the Australian visa process. Whether you are applying for a Student Visa (Subclass 500), Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), or skilled migration programs, meeting the English requirement is mandatory. With the new changes, applicants have more test options but also stricter score requirements.

Key Updates as of August 7, 2025

1. Expanded List of Approved English Tests

Australia has increased the number of approved English tests from five to nine. Along with IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, OET, and Cambridge C1 Advanced, the following are now accepted: – CELPIP General – LanguageCert Academic – Michigan English Test (MET)

This gives applicants more flexibility in choosing their preferred test provider.

2. Revised Score Requirements

The Department of Home Affairs has standardized English score thresholds across visa subclasses. For example: – Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485): PTE Academic now requires an overall score of 55 with minimum band requirements (Listening: 40, Reading: 42, Writing: 41, Speaking: 39). IELTS remains 6.5 overall, with no band lower than 5.5. – Student Visa (Subclass 500): IELTS requirement remains overall 5.5, but other tests have aligned benchmarks.

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3. Transitional Validity for Old Tests

If you took an English test on or before August 6, 2025, your results remain valid for up to three years, depending on the visa type. For example: – Student Visa (Subclass 500): Valid for 24 months – Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485): Valid for 12 months

4. No Acceptance of Online or At-Home Tests

Remote-proctored English tests are still not accepted. Tests such as IELTS Online, CELPIP Online, TOEFL Home Edition, and OET@Home are invalid. Applicants must take their test in secure test centers only.

Upcoming Change: Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) – From September 13, 2025

Starting September 13, 2025, further changes will apply to the Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand Visa): – English requirements will align with Vocational English standards. – Cambridge C1 Advanced will no longer be accepted for this visa. – Three new tests will remain eligible. – Test results before this date will remain valid for three years.

What This Means for Visa Applicants

• If you took your test before August 7, 2025: Your result can still be used within the validity period.
• If you are taking a test after August 7, 2025: You must use one of the nine approved tests and meet the new score thresholds.
• If applying for Subclass 482 after September 13, 2025: Ensure you meet the updated Vocational English requirements.

Tips to Prepare for the New English Language Test Rules

1. Book Early: Secure a test date well before your visa lodgement deadline.
2. Choose the Right Test: Select from the newly expanded list to match your strengths.
3. Check Official Requirements: Always confirm on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
4. Seek Professional Guidance: Migration agents and education consultants can guide you to avoid costly mistakes.

Final Thoughts

The new English test requirements effective from August 7, 2025, provide applicants with more test options but require careful planning to meet the updated score benchmarks. For those aiming to study, work, or migrate to Australia, preparing in advance is key to a smooth visa application.

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Disclaimer:

The information contained on this blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. And the information provided on this blog should not be construed as professional advice.

While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, I cannot guarantee that all information is complete or error-free. You should always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the information contained on this blog post.