From 7 August 2025, the Department of Home Affairs has introduced significant changes to the approved English language tests for Australian visa applications.
These changes affect which tests are accepted, score
thresholds, and how long results remain valid. If you are
planning to apply for an Australian visa, it is important to
understand how these updates impact your eligibility.
Key Changes from 7 August 2025
Broader range of accepted tests: Now includes Cambridge C1 Advanced, CELPIP General, IELTS Academic & General Training (with One Skill Retake), LANGUAGECERT Academic, MET (with Single Section Retake), OET, PTE Academic, and TOEFL iBT.
Updated score requirements across all levels – Functional, Vocational, Competent, Proficient, and Superior English.
Validity rules:
- Tests taken before 7 August 2025 may still be valid for up to three years (depending on visa subclass) if lodged before 6 August 2028.
- Tests taken on or after 7 August 2025 must meet the new scoring thresholds.
Tests No Longer Accepted if Taken After 6 August 2025
- Cambridge English (pre-2025 format) for certain levels
- Any fully online English tests, including IELTS Online, CELPIP Online, MET Digital (at-home), OET@Home, and TOEFL iBT Home Edition.
English Levels & New Scores
Here's an example of some updated minimums for tests taken from 7 August 2025:
| Level | IELTS (each) | PTE Academic (component min) | TOEFL iBT (component min) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Functional | 4.5 overall | Overall: 24 | Total: 26 |
| Vocational | 5.0 | L: 33, R: 36, W: 29, S: 24 | L: 8, R: 8, W: 9, S: 14 |
| Competent | 6.0 | L: 47, R: 48, W: 51, S: 54 | L: 16, R: 16, W: 19, S: 19 |
| Proficient | 7.0 | L: 58, R: 59, W: 69, S: 76 | L: 22, R: 22, W: 26, S: 24 |
| Superior | 8.0 | L: 69, R: 70, W: 85, S: 88 | L: 26, R: 27, W: 30, S: 28 |
What Visa Applicants Should Do Now
- Check your visa subclass requirements: Different visas require different English levels.
- Confirm your test type: Only in-person tests from the approved list will be accepted.
- Validate your test date: If your test was taken before 7 August 2025, confirm if it's still within its validity period.
- Prepare for the right score: Ensure your results meet or exceed the updated thresholds.
Need Help?
At Roam Migration Law, we can help you:
- Determine the English level required for your visa.
- Understand whether your current test results are still valid.
- Plan your application to avoid delays or refusals.
Contact us today to ensure you're ready under the new requirements.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
