𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝟕 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

1. Expansion of Approved English Tests

Australia has broadened its list of accepted English proficiency exams. In addition to established tests like IELTS (Academic & General), PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, OET, and Cambridge C1 Advanced, the following are now approved:

• CELPIP General
• LanguageCert Academic
• Michigan English Test (MET)

2. Revised Score Requirements

Minimum scores have been updated and harmonised across test formats for different visa categories, including “Competent,” “Proficient,” and “Superior” English levels. For example, new component-level benchmarks are set for IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, OET, C1 Advanced, CELPIP, LanguageCert Academic, and MET

• The C1 Advanced test is no longer accepted for meeting Vocational English requirements

3. Test Validity and Transitional Provisions

• Results from newly approved tests taken from 7 August 2025 onward are generally valid for up to 3 years
• Scores from tests completed before 7 August 2025 remain valid if they meet previous requirements and are within the prescribed timeframe (typically within three years)

4. Visas Affected

Changes apply broadly—including skilled migration, employer-sponsored, student (Subclass 500), Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485), and others—under two new legislative instruments:

• LIN 25/014: Migration (Evidence of Functional English Language Proficiency) Instrument 2025
• LIN 25/090: Migration (English Language Tests and Evidence Exemptions for Subclass 500 Student Visas) Instrument 2025

Summary Table

Here’s the updated component-specific English score requirements for General Skilled Migration (GSM) applicants seeking points for “Competent,” “Proficient,” or “Superior” English, effective 7 August 2025:

Competent English (0 points)

Minimum score per component:

Proficient English (10 points)

Minimum score per component:

Superior English (20 points)

Minimum score per component:

Note: The MET test is not accepted for Superior English in GSM.

Summary

• Applicants for GSM should now meet these component-level scores, not just overall bands.
• These thresholds apply exclusively to tests taken on or after 7 August 2025.
• If you took your test before that date and the results are still valid, you may rely on the older, legacy score thresholds—but that depends on the specific visa and validity period.