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English Test

For migration purposes in Australia, you can demonstrate your English proficiency by taking one of several approved tests, including IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, OET, or the Cambridge C1 Advanced. The required test and score vary depending on the visa you’re applying for, so it’s essential to choose the right test to meet the specific English language requirements.

English Test Comparison


Proficiency Level
IELTS
TOEFL iBT
PTE Academic
OET
Cambridge (CAE)
Functional
4.5
Overall
32
Overall
30
Overall
B
147
Overall
Vocational
5.0
Each Module
Listening & Reading 4.0
Writing & Speaking 14
36
Each Module
B
154
Each Module
Competent
6.0
Each Module
Listening: 12 Reading: 13
Writing: 21 Speaking: 18
50
Each Module
B
169
Each Module
Proficient
7.0
Each Module
Listening & Reading: 24
Writing: 27 Speaking: 23
65
Each Module
B
185
Each Module
Superior
8.0
Each Module
Listening: 28 Reading: 29
Writing: 30 Speaking: 26
79
Each Module
A
200
Each M odule

Functional English

You can also show you have functional English ability by providing evidence of one of the following:

  • Completion of a degree, higher degree, diploma or trade certificate that required at least 2 years of study in English medium
  • Completion of all years of primary education and at least 3 years of secondary education in English medium; or
  • Completion of at least 5 years of secondary education in English medium; or
  • Scoring at least 4.5 averaged over the four components of the IELTS test within the 12 months before application, or during processing; or
  • Completion in Australia of at least 1 year of full-time study or equivalent part-time study towards a degree, higher degree, diploma, or associate diploma in English medium.
  • In some circumstances, functional English can be established via interview or AMEP program.

Competent and Functional English

If you hold a passport from one of the following 5 countries, you can establish Competent English and/or Functional English without completing an English test:

  • Canada
  • New Zealand
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • Ireland

For Proficient English or Superior English, you must appear for the English Test.

PRACTICE TEST

Please find below a list of websites where you can find all you need to study by yourself.