Most Australian visa applications require evidence of English language ability. The test you choose and the score you achieve can significantly impact your visa eligibility — and in the case of skilled migration, your points score. Here's what you need to know.
Accepted English tests
DHA accepts the following English language tests for visa purposes:
- IELTS (Academic or General Training) — the most widely known
- PTE Academic — computer-based, faster results
- OET — for health professionals
- TOEFL iBT — accepted for most visa subclasses
- Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) — accepted for most visa subclasses
Score equivalences
DHA recognises four levels of English proficiency. Here's how the scores map across tests:
Functional English
IELTS 4.5 overall | PTE 30 | OET not applicable | TOEFL iBT 32
Required for: secondary applicants on some visas
Vocational English
IELTS 5.0 each band | PTE 36 each | TOEFL iBT 35 (L/R), 12 (W), 14 (S)
Required for: Subclass 482 (some streams)
Competent English
IELTS 6.0 each band | PTE 50 each | OET B each | TOEFL iBT 12 (L), 13 (R), 21 (W), 18 (S) | Cambridge 169 each
Required for: Subclass 189, 190, 491 (minimum), most skilled visas
Proficient English (10 bonus points)
IELTS 7.0 each band | PTE 65 each | OET B each | TOEFL iBT 24 (L), 24 (R), 27 (W), 23 (S) | Cambridge 185 each
Superior English (20 bonus points)
IELTS 8.0 each band | PTE 79 each | OET A each | TOEFL iBT 28 (L), 29 (R), 30 (W), 26 (S) | Cambridge 200 each
Which test should you take?
PTE Academic
Best for: people who prefer computer-based testing and want fast results (typically 1-2 business days). Many test-takers find PTE scoring more consistent than IELTS. The speaking section is recorded by computer, which some people prefer over face-to-face IELTS interviews.
IELTS
Best for: people who prefer paper-based testing or face-to-face speaking assessments. IELTS is the most widely recognised English test globally. Results take 13 days. Available in Academic and General Training formats.
OET
Best for: health professionals (doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, etc.). OET uses healthcare-specific scenarios, which can be easier for health workers than general English tests. Accepted for both visa and professional registration purposes.
TOEFL iBT
Best for: applicants who are more comfortable with American English. Less popular in Australia but fully accepted by DHA.
Tips for maximising your English score
- Take practice tests — every test provider offers free practice materials. Use them.
- Focus on your weakest band — most visa requirements need a minimum in EACH band, not just overall. One weak band can disqualify you.
- Consider retaking — if you're close to the next proficiency level, the extra 10 points on the points test can make or break your invitation.
- Test validity — English test results are valid for 3 years from the test date. Plan accordingly.
- Try PTE if IELTS isn't working — many applicants who plateau on IELTS find they score higher on PTE, or vice versa.
Your English score directly affects your visa eligibility and, for skilled visas, your points score. The difference between IELTS 7 and IELTS 8 in each band is worth 10 points — often the difference between receiving an invitation and waiting indefinitely.