English Language Requirements Changes – 2026 Update

As part of Australia's Migration Strategy, the Australian Government introduced changes to English language requirements for Student and Temporary Graduate visas, effective from 23 March 2024.

Further changes took effect on 7 August 2025, updating the approved English language tests and equivalent scores for visa applications.

These requirements continue to apply in 2026, and applicants should ensure they meet the latest criteria before lodging their visa applications.

How Have the English Language Requirements Changed?

Student Visas (Subclass 500)

The minimum IELTS overall score for a standard Student Visa increased from 5.5 to 6.0, or an equivalent approved English language test score.

Students undertaking at least 20 weeks of English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) packaged with their principal course may qualify with an IELTS overall score of 5.0, or equivalent.

Students undertaking at least 10 weeks of ELICOS packaged with their principal course may qualify with an IELTS overall score of 5.5, or equivalent.

Students undertaking eligible university foundation or pathway programs may also qualify with an IELTS overall score of 5.5, or equivalent. Eligible programs are specified under the relevant government requirements.

Certain applicants, including eligible standalone ELICOS students, school students and postgraduate research students, may be exempt from providing English language test evidence.

For more information, visit the Department of Home Affairs – Student Visa (Subclass 500).

Temporary Graduate Visas (Subclass 485)

The minimum IELTS overall score for most Temporary Graduate Visa applicants increased from 6.0 to 6.5, or equivalent, with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component (listening, reading, writing and speaking).

English language test results must generally have been obtained within 12 months before the visa application.

Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders have a lower English language requirement of IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum score of 5.0 in each component, or equivalent.

Applicants holding valid passports from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, New Zealand or Republic of Ireland may be exempt from providing English language test results.

For more information, visit the Department of Home Affairs – Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).

Additional English Language Test Changes in 2026

From 7 August 2025, the Australian Government expanded the list of approved English language tests and updated equivalent score requirements.

Approved tests now include IELTS Academic, IELTS General Training, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, CELPIP General, LANGUAGECERT Academic, Michigan English Test (MET) and Occupational English Test (OET). Cambridge C1 Advanced is also accepted for Student Visa applications, subject to applicable conditions.

For tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, the standard minimum scores for Student Visa applicants include:

IELTS Academic / General Training: 6.0 overall

PTE Academic: 47

TOEFL iBT: 67

Cambridge C1 Advanced: 161

From 21 January 2026, applicants taking TOEFL iBT must select "Taking TOEFL for Australia" when registering for their examination to ensure the test is valid for Australian visa purposes.

Applicants should also note that at-home or fully online English language tests are not accepted for Australian visa purposes.

For more information, visit the Department of Home Affairs – English Language Visa Requirements.

Important Information

English language requirements may vary depending on your visa subclass, course arrangements, passport and individual circumstances. Different equivalent scores may apply to tests taken before 7 August 2025.

For the latest information, please refer to the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

Disclaimer: This article is intended as general information only and reflects requirements checked in October 2026. It does not constitute personalised migration advice.