New English test rules Australia 2025 – This article is based on information from the Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) Member Notice No. 9 – 8 August 2025, and the Department of Home Affairs. Content has been summarised and reworded for clarity.
What Changed?
From 7 August 2025, the Australian Government has:
- Increased accepted English tests from 5 to 9
- Updated minimum scores for Student (Subclass 500) and Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) visas
- Introduced different rules depending on when you took your test
- Announced upcoming Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) changes starting 13 September 2025
Accepted English Tests (Now 9)
- Cambridge Advanced (C1 Advanced)
- CELPIP General
- IELTS Academic
- IELTS General Training
- LANGUAGECERT Academic
- Michigan English Test (MET)
- Occupational English Test (OET)
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
Test Date Matters
- Test taken on or before 6 Aug 2025 → Old scores still apply for a limited time
- Test taken on or after 7 Aug 2025 → New scores apply
Temporary Graduate Visa (485)
- Test must be taken within 12 months before applying
- Scores must be from one sitting (except OET)
- Lower score requirements apply for Hong Kong & BNO passport holders
Student Visa (500)
- Test can be up to 24 months old
- Minimum scores depend on whether you go directly into your course, or first take ELICOS / a foundation program
- Exemptions for citizens of certain English-speaking countries, some research students, and those with recent Australian study
Skills in Demand Visa (482)
- Current rules stay until 13 September 2025
- From 13 September → New “Vocational English” score requirements, 3 more accepted tests
- Cambridge C1 Advanced will no longer be accepted if taken on or after 13 September 2025
Other Updates
- New score tables for Vocational, Competent, Proficient, Superior and Functional English
- Check the validity period:
- 485 → 12 months
- 500 → 24 months
- Most others → 36 months
Tips for Applicants
- Check if your test date is before or after 7 Aug 2025
- Make sure your test is accepted for your visa type
- Plan ahead so your test result is still valid at lodgement
- You may qualify for an exemption