From 7 August 2025, the Australian Government introduced important updates to English language testing for visa applications. These changes affect which test providers are accepted and the minimum scores required for certain levels of English. If you are planning an Australia visa application —whether for a work visa Australia pathway, a skilled worker visa Australia, or other migration programs—understanding these updates is essential.
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1. New English Test Providers Accepted
Applicants now have more choice in how they demonstrate English proficiency. In addition to IELTS, TOEFL iBT, and PTE Academic, the following tests are now approved for visa purposes under Australia immigration rules:
- CELPIP General – Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (General)
- LanguageCert Academic
- MET (Michigan English Test) – accepted for all levels except Superior English
Important: The C1 Advanced test is no longer accepted for Vocational English level requirements.
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2. Updated PTE Academic Score Requirements
While IELTS and TOEFL score thresholds remain the same, the Government has adjusted the PTE Academic score requirements for Competent, Proficient, and Superior English.
New PTE Academic Minimum Scores (from 7 August 2025)
| English Level | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Competent | 47 | 48 | 51 | 54 |
| Proficient | 58 | 59 | 69 | 76 |
| Superior | 69 | 70 | 85 | 88 |
These new thresholds apply if you take your PTE Academic on or after 7 August 2025.
3. Which Visas Are Affected?
The English requirement changes affect several visa subclasses, particularly for skilled workers and permanent migration:
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) – requires Competent English
- General Skilled Migration visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491) – your points may depend on Proficient or Superior English
- Student visa Australia applicants may choose from the expanded test provider list (depending on level of study and visa stream).
Note: The Temporary Skill Shortage visa (Subclass 482) remains unaffected—its English requirements are unchanged.
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4. Transitional Arrangements
If you sat your English test before 7 August 2025, you may still rely on the previous scoring system during the transitional period. This provides some flexibility for applicants who already completed their testing.
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5. What This Means for Skilled Workers and Employers
- For skilled worker visa Australia applicants: Higher PTE requirements may influence your ability to claim additional points. Strong English scores remain critical to improving your ranking for invitations.
- For employers sponsoring workers: Understanding the updated test rules ensures candidates meet eligibility before lodging an Australia visa application.
- For students and future workers: The acceptance of new test providers offers more flexibility and accessibility when proving English ability.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Why did the Government change PTE Academic scores?
The Department of Home Affairs regularly reviews English test benchmarks to align with international standards and ensure consistency across providers. - Can I still use IELTS or TOEFL?
Yes. IELTS and TOEFL requirements remain unchanged. - Which visas require English evidence?
Most skilled and permanent visas under Australia immigration require proof of English, including 189, 190, 491, 186, and in some cases student and graduate visas.
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How AustraliaMigrate Can Help
At AustraliaMigrate, we are a leading migration agency in Sydney with extensive experience across Australia visa applications. Whether you are applying for a work visa Australia, a skilled worker visa Australia, or transitioning from a student visa Australia, our team ensures you meet the latest English requirements.
We closely monitor government updates and invitation rounds so you can focus on your future.
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Final Takeaway
The August 2025 changes to English test providers and PTE Academic scores are an important development for anyone applying for an Australian visa. With higher benchmarks for PTE Academic and new testing options available, applicants must plan their test strategy carefully.
If you are unsure how these changes impact your visa pathway, contact AustraliaMigrate today. Our expert migration agents can guide you in every step of the way in your Australia visa application.
