New English Requirements for Australian Student Visa

The Australian government has modified the English language requirements for student and temporary graduate visas.

This update was disclosed in the Australian Government’s Migration Strategy issued on December 11, 2023, and is effective for all Student and Temporary Graduate visa applications submitted on or after March 23, 2024.

The Migration Strategy explained that the changes in English language requirements for student visas aim to help international students have a good learning journey in Australia and prepare for work opportunities if they apply for a graduate visa after completing their studies.

Overview of New English Requirements for Australian Student Visa

Changes have been implemented regarding the English Language Requirements for both Temporary Graduate visas (TGV) and Student visa.

1. For Temporary Graduate visas (Subclass 485):

The minimum IELTS test score required has been raised from 6.0 to 6.5 (or its equivalent). Each section of the test (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) must now have a minimum score of 5.5.

What’s the Time Limit for Providing Proof of IELTS Clearance for TGV Applicants Before Applying Visa?

The time limit for the validity of the test score has been reduced from 3 years to just 1 year. TGV applicants must now provide proof of completing an English Language test within 1 year before applying for the visa.

2. For Student visas (Subclass 500):

The minimum required IELTS test score has increased from 5.5 to 6 (or equivalent). The minimum required IELTS score for admission to a packaged ELICOS course has been elevated from 4.5 to 5.0.

There is no charge for students who are exclusively studying English through ELICOS. Students enrolling in university foundation or pathway programs that offer high-quality English language training now need an IELTS score of 5.5 (or equivalent).

Raising the English language requirements for students undertaking Vocational Education and Training (VET) and higher education courses implies that the score necessary for those enrolled in packaged ELICOS courses will also need to increase. This adjustment is vital to ensure that students have the appropriate level of English proficiency. It helps them transition successfully into their main courses, and equipped with the necessary language skills.