English Language Requirements for Subclass 500 (Student) Visa – Effective 7 August 2025
To apply for an Australian Subclass 500 (Student) visa, international students must meet the minimum English language test scores listed below. Scores vary depending on whether the principal course is accompanied by preparatory English (ELICOS) or a pathway/foundation program.
See the official Government instrument for full details and exemptions:
Migration (English Language Tests and Evidence Exemptions for Subclass 500 (Student) Visas) Instrument 2025
Minimum Test Scores (Tests Taken On or After 7 August 2025)
| 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 |
“Main Course Only” = direct entry to principal course.
“+ 10 Weeks ELICOS / Pathway / Foundation” = with at least 10 weeks ELICOS or an eligible pathway/foundation program.
“+ 20 Weeks ELICOS” = with at least 20 weeks ELICOS.
Transitional Test Scores (Tests Taken Before 7 August 2025)
| Test Name | Main Course Only | + 10 Weeks ELICOS / Pathway / Foundation | + 20 Weeks ELICOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) | 169 | 162 | 154 |
| IELTS (Academic or General) | 6.0 | 5.5 | 5.0 |
| OET | B in each component | B in each component | B in each component |
| PTE Academic | 50 | 42 | 36 |
| TOEFL iBT | 64 | 46 | 35 |
Important Notes
- Some nationalities and student types are exempt from English test requirements. See official instrument for all rules and exceptions.
- Your test result must be current and taken within the required period before applying.
- Always check the full rules for details on score calculation, updates, and eligibility.