The Australian Student visa (Subclass 500) English language requirements have undergone significant changes effective August 7, 2025. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything international students need to know about the new requirements, transitional provisions, and expanded test provider options.
Overview of Changes
Starting August 7, 2025, Student visa applicants have access to eight approved English test providers, up from the previous five. The expansion includes new options like CELPIP General, LANGUAGECERT Academic, and MET (Michigan English Test), providing students with more flexibility in demonstrating their English proficiency.
Critical Dates and Transitional Provisions
Understanding which requirements apply to you depends entirely on when you take your English test:
- Test taken BEFORE August 7, 2025: Original requirements and providers apply
- Test taken ON OR AFTER August 7, 2025: New requirements and all eight providers available
This means if you’ve already taken your test before August 7, 2025, you’re protected by transitional provisions and won’t need to retake it, even if you apply after this date.
Test Validity Periods
The validity period for Student visa English tests remains unchanged at 24 months, but the timing depends on when you provide the evidence:
At Application Time
Your test must be no more than 24 months old on the day you lodge your visa application.
After Lodgement
If you provide English evidence after lodging your application (for example, if requested by the Department), the test must be no more than 24 months old on the day the Department makes its decision on your visa.
Detailed Score Requirements
For Tests Taken BEFORE August 7, 2025
These are the requirements that continue to apply if your test was completed before the changeover date:
| Test Provider | Standard Course | 10+ weeks ELICOS/Foundation/Pathway | 20+ weeks ELICOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | Overall 6.0 | Overall 5.5 | Overall 5.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | Total 64 | Total 46 | Total 35 |
| PTE Academic | Overall 50 | Overall 42 | Overall 36 |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced | Overall 169 | Overall 162 | Overall 154 |
| OET | B in each component | B in each component | C in each component |
For Tests Taken ON OR AFTER August 7, 2025
The new requirements include additional test providers as specified in LIN 25/090:
| Test Provider | Standard Course | 10+ weeks ELICOS/Foundation/Pathway | 20+ weeks ELICOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic/General | Average band score 6.0 | Average band score 5.5 | Average band score 5.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | Total band score 67 | Total band score 51 | Total band score 37 |
| PTE Academic | Overall band score 47 | Overall band score 39 | Overall band score 31 |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced | Overall band score 161 | Not accepted | Not accepted |
| OET | Overall band score 1210 | Overall band score 1090 | Overall band score 1020 |
| CELPIP General | Overall band score 7 | Overall band score 6 | Overall band score 5 |
| LANGUAGECERT Academic | Overall band score 61 | Overall band score 54 | Overall band score 46 |
| MET | Overall band score 53 | Overall band score 49 | Overall band score 44 |
Understanding the New Test Providers
CELPIP General
The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) is a computer-delivered test that evaluates functional English proficiency. It’s widely recognized in Canada and now accepted for Australian student visas.
LANGUAGECERT Academic
LANGUAGECERT offers a secure online proctored English test that can be taken from home or at a test center. It provides flexible scheduling and quick results.
MET (Michigan English Test)
Developed by the University of Michigan, MET is a multilevel test that measures general English language proficiency in educational, social, and workplace contexts.
Exemptions from English Requirements
You may be exempt from providing English test results if you fall into one of these categories:
Citizenship Exemptions
Citizens of the following countries are exempt:
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
- Canada
- New Zealand
- Republic of Ireland
Education-Based Exemptions
You may be exempt if you have:
- Completed at least 5 years of study in English in one or more of the exempt countries
- Completed substantial study in English at the Senior Secondary Certificate level or higher
- Successfully completed specific foundation or pathway programs
Course-Specific Exemptions
- Students enrolled solely in English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)
- Students in specific school sector programs
- Registered school students
- Foreign Affairs or Defence sponsored students
Choosing the Right Test
When selecting your English test, consider these factors:
Test Availability
- In-person options: IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced, OET, CELPIP, MET
- Online from home: LANGUAGECERT Academic (with online proctoring)
- Frequency: PTE and LANGUAGECERT offer frequent test dates
Results Timeline
- Fastest: LANGUAGECERT (2-3 days), PTE (2-5 days)
- Standard: TOEFL (6-10 days), CELPIP (4-5 days)
- Traditional: IELTS (13 days), Cambridge C1 Advanced (varies)
Cost Considerations
Tests range from approximately:
- MET: $155-175 USD
- CELPIP: $280-350 CAD
- LANGUAGECERT: £150-200 GBP
- Traditional tests (IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic): $300-400 AUD
Test Format Preferences
- Computer-based: PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, CELPIP, LANGUAGECERT, MET
- Paper or computer: IELTS, Cambridge C1 Advanced
- Professional contexts: OET (for healthcare students)
Package Visa Applications
If you’re applying for a packaged course arrangement (such as ELICOS + main course), specific rules apply:
- English requirements depend on your main course level
- ELICOS completion may satisfy English requirements for the main course
- Maximum ELICOS duration is typically 20 weeks (30 weeks for certain university pathways)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Wrong Test Timing
Don’t take your test too early. Remember the 24-month validity period and factor in potential visa processing delays.
2. Incorrect Score Targets
Ensure you’re aiming for the minimum scores in ALL components, not just the overall score. Many students achieve the overall requirement but miss one component minimum.
3. Single Sitting Requirement
All scores must be achieved in a single test attempt (except for OET in specific circumstances). You cannot combine your best scores from multiple attempts.
4. Not Checking Provider Recognition
While eight providers are accepted for Student visas, your education institution may have specific preferences or requirements. Always verify with your institution.
Preparation Strategies
For Traditional Tests (IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic)
- Allow 2-3 months of preparation
- Focus on academic English skills
- Practice with official preparation materials
- Consider preparatory courses if scoring below requirements
For New Test Options
- CELPIP General: Focus on Canadian English and functional communication skills
- LANGUAGECERT Academic: Practice with their online preparation materials and sample tests
- MET: Utilize University of Michigan’s preparation resources for multilevel testing format
Impact on Student Visa Processing
The expanded test options may affect your visa timeline:
Faster Processing Potential
- Quick-result tests like LANGUAGECERT can expedite application preparation
- Online proctored options reduce scheduling delays in remote areas
Documentation Requirements
Regardless of test provider, ensure you:
- Provide official test reports (not screenshots or unofficial copies)
- Include your test reference number
- Ensure the test report shows all component scores
Special Circumstances
Regional Students
The addition of online test options particularly benefits students in regional areas with limited test center access.
Students with Disabilities
Several new providers offer enhanced accessibility features:
- Extended time accommodations
- Modified test formats
- Assistive technology compatibility
Pathway Program Students
If you’re entering through a pathway program, check whether your program’s completion satisfies English requirements for your main course.
Future Considerations
Potential Further Changes
The Department has indicated that requirements may continue to evolve. Stay informed about:
- Possible score adjustments
- Additional provider additions
- Changes to validity periods
Institution-Specific Requirements
Universities and colleges may update their English requirements to align with the new framework. Always verify current requirements with your chosen institution.
Key Action Steps
- Determine which requirements apply to you based on your intended test date
- Research all eight available providers if testing after August 7, 2025
- Check your institution’s specific requirements beyond visa requirements
- Book your test with adequate lead time considering validity periods
- Prepare thoroughly for your chosen test format
- Keep official test reports secure for visa application
Resources and Support
Official Information
Test Provider Websites
Each provider offers preparation materials, practice tests, and detailed scoring information on their official websites.
Conclusion
The expansion of English test options for Student visas represents a positive change for international students, offering more flexibility and accessibility. Whether you choose a traditional test like IELTS or a newer option like CELPIP or LANGUAGECERT, understanding the requirements and planning appropriately will help ensure a smooth visa application process.
Remember that meeting English requirements is just one component of a successful Student visa application. Ensure you also meet financial, health, character, and Genuine Student requirements for a complete application.
Last updated: September 9, 2025. Requirements are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with official Department of Home Affairs resources before making test bookings.
