As of August 7, 2025, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has updated the list of approved English language tests for individuals applying for certain Australian visas. These changes aim to better manage immigration risk and ensure that visa holders can effectively integrate into Australian society.
New English Language Test Requirements
Applicants must now provide evidence of English proficiency through one of several approved tests, all of which must be taken at a secure testing center. Online or at-home tests are not accepted for visa purposes.
Accepted Tests (from August 7, 2025 onward):
- Cambridge C1 Advanced (C1 Advanced)
- CELPIP General
- IELTS Academic (including One Skill Retake)
- IELTS General Training (including One Skill Retake)
- LANGUAGECERT Academic
- Michigan English Test (MET) (including Single Section Retake)
- Occupational English Test (OET)
- Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)
- TOEFL iBT
Tests Taken Before August 7, 2025
If you completed a test on or before August 6, 2025, your results may still be valid for up to three years, depending on the visa subclass. Accepted tests include:
- Cambridge English (CAE) / C1 Advanced
- IELTS (Academic or General, including One Skill Retake)
- PTE Academic
- OET
- TOEFL iBT
These results can be used for visa applications until August 6, 2028, subject to visa-specific requirements.
Online Tests Not Accepted
The Department does not accept remote-proctored or at-home English tests. Examples of non-accepted formats include:
- CELPIP Online
- IELTS Online
- LANGUAGECERT Academic Online
- MET Digital (at-home)
- OET@Home
- TOEFL iBT – Home Edition
English Proficiency Levels
Visa applicants must meet specific English proficiency levels, which vary by visa subclass. These include:
- Functional English
- Vocational English
- Competent English
- Proficient English
- Superior English
Each level has defined score thresholds across the approved tests. Applicants should consult the eligibility criteria for their visa subclass to determine the required level and acceptable evidence.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.
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