From 26 July 2023, TOEFL iBT Will No Longer Be Offering English Language Tests for Australian Visa Purposes Until Further Notice

Starting from July 26, 2023, TOEFL iBT, which used to be an accepted English language test for Australian visa applications, will no longer offer tests for visa purposes. This suspension of TOEFL iBT for Australian visa applications will continue until further notice.

The TOEFL iBT test has been put on hold because ETS, the organization that runs it, is making changes to the test.

What if I Already Took the TOEFL iBT?

There’s no reason to worry if you have already completed the TOEFL iBT test. The pause of the test in Australia only impacts those who intend to take the test after July 26, 2023. If you obtained your TOEFL iBT scores before this date, they will still be valid for Australian visa applications.

What Are The Updates Made in TOEFL iBT?

The Revised TOEFL iBT, which is going to be launched worldwide on July 26, will bring several improvements. These enhancements include a better test registration process, easier-to-follow test-taker instructions, and a more streamlined Reading section. A new Writing section called ‘Writing for an Academic Discussion’ will be introduced, and the mid-test break will be removed. These changes are designed to reduce the overall test duration from 3 to 2 hours and enhance the overall test-taking experience.

What are Other Options?

While TOEFL iBT is currently on pause for visa applicants in Australia, there are other English language test alternatives that applicants can consider. These options include:

1. International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
2. Pearson Test of English (PTE)
3. Cambridge English (CAE)
4. Occupational English Test (OET)

IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR)

On December 14th, 2022, a significant change was introduced in the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) that has been named the “One Skill Retake” (OSR). This update allows certain test takers to retake one of the four components of the IELTS test – reading, writing, speaking, or listening – on a one-time basis. Candidates who performed well in some areas but struggled in others on their initial test can benefit from the OSR option.

Acceptance of IELTS Test Results with OSR

For Australian visa purposes, the Department of Home Affairs will now accept IELTS test results that include the OSR option, except for specific visa subclasses. Applicants applying for subclasses 476 (Skilled—Recognized Graduate visa), 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage visa), and 485 (Temporary Graduate visa) will not be eligible to utilize the IELTS OSR option. Instead, they must provide their test scores from a single sitting or attempt.

This exception is made to maintain a higher degree of language proficiency for certain visa subclasses, which may be more important for those seeking to live, study, or work in Australia under these specific visa categories.

Final Words

The recent changes in English language requirements for Australian visa applications represent a strategic move by the Department of Home Affairs to enhance the evaluation process of language proficiency. By discontinuing the acceptance of TOEFL iBT and introducing the IELTS OSR option, the Department aims to provide applicants with a fairer and more accurate assessment of their language abilities.

Prospective visa applicants are advised to stay updated with any further announcements regarding these changes and any potential updates to the temporary suspension of TOEFL iBT for visa purposes. Following the new rules will result in a smoother visa application process and a higher possibility of success for anyone wishing to live, work, or study in Australia.