New English language tests approved for Student visa applications

Student visa applicants may be required to show evidence of their English language ability. There is a list of specific tests that can be used to meet this requirement. 

On 7 August 2025, the Australian Government announced that there are now 9 English language tests that can be used to meet the English language requirement on Student visa applications.

Key points 

• The additional tests mean that applicants now have more options for meeting the English language requirement for the Student visa. 
• The tests that were already approved can still be used. 
• There have been no changes to the level of English language ability required. However, some scores may be slightly different to make sure that all the available tests match that level, e.g. the TOEFL iBT score has increased from 64 to 67. 
• The Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs will accept results from the updated list of English language tests taken on or after 7 August 2025. 

• Any tests taken on or before 6 August 2025, will be valid for the period specified in legislative instrument LIN 25/090 and be assessed based on the previous test scores as specified in the schedule 3 of legislative instrument LIN 25/090.  

Updated list of approved tests 

The Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs will now accept from the following English Language test providers for Student visas: 

• Cambridge C1 Advanced Test (C1 Advanced)  
• Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program General (CELPIP General) 
• International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic),  
• International English Language Testing System General Training (IELTS General Training)  
• LANGUAGECERT Academic Test (LANGUAGECERT Academic) 
• Michigan English Test (MET) 
• Occupational English Test (OET) 
• Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) 
• Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT). 

If a Student visa applicant is required to demonstrate English language skills for their visa application, they must ensure that they: 

• take a test that is valid, and 
• achieve the minimum English test scores required. 

For more information, including on accepted English language tests, English language evidence exemptions and English language test providers, see Student (Subclass 500) visa.