Are you planning to study in Australia on a Subclass 500 (Student) visa? New English language test requirements will apply for all applications made on or after 7 August 2025. Here’s exactly what you need to know.
New Minimum English Test Scores (from 7 August 2025)
You can use any of the approved English tests below. Minimum required scores vary if you are enrolled directly in your main course, with 10+ weeks of ELICOS or a pathway/foundation, or with 20+ weeks of ELICOS.
| Test Name | Main Course Only | +10 Weeks ELICOS / Pathway / Foundation | +20 Weeks ELICOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| C1 Advanced | 161 | Not accepted | Not accepted |
| CELPIP General | 7 | 6 | 5 |
| IELTS Academic | 6.0 | 5.5 | 5.0 |
| IELTS General | 6.0 | 5.5 | 5.0 |
| LANGUAGECERT Academic | 61 | 54 | 46 |
| MET | 53 | 49 | 44 |
| OET | 1210 | 1090 | 1020 |
| PTE Academic | 47 | 39 | 31 |
| TOEFL iBT | 67 | 51 | 37 |
Transitional Minimum Scores (Tests Taken Before 7 August 2025)
| Test Name | Main Course Only | +10 Weeks ELICOS / Pathway / Foundation | +20 Weeks ELICOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cambridge English: Advanced | 169 | 162 | 154 |
| IELTS (Academic or General) | 6.0 | 5.5 | 5.0 |
| OET | B in each part | B in each part | B in each part |
| PTE Academic | 50 | 42 | 36 |
| TOEFL iBT | 64 | 46 | 35 |
Who is exempt?
- Citizens of the UK, USA, NZ, Canada, and Ireland
- Students in ELICOS-only courses, secondary school/exchange, postgraduate research courses, etc.
For details on exemptions, score validity, special rules, and up-to-date information, check:
- Kingston College: https://kingstoncollege.wa.edu.au/english-language-test-requirements/
- Official government instrument (full rules): https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2025L00906/asmade/text
Questions? Contact our student support team for help.