Several english exam options exist in most cases as the Department of Immigration accepts English exam results from different providers listed in the table below, however, keep in mind that for your particular case, a specific english test may be required which means you may not be able to choose the type of exam you prefer.
The English score you need depends on various factors such as the visa subclass you are eligible to apply for, occupation/s and if applicable for your situation, the skills assessment authority and calculation of points. Exemptions also apply in some cases. If you are not sure about your options and the requirements for your situation, we recommend you arrange an assessment. A migration assessment with a registered Australian Immigration Specialist is a very important and worthwhile part of the migration process as it will allow you to obtain precise information for your situation based on updated legislation. Find out more about what a migration assessment involves.
How can you practice your English?
Did you know that we run International Friends events in Sydney? If you are located in Sydney, this is a perfect opportunity to surround yourself with english speakers and improve your english! Come along to one of our next events. Join our International Friends community here.
Resources to practice and Test Centre information
IELTS – View example English tests to help you get an idea of what is expected for the IELTS exam. Keep in mind that it’s more about the technique rather than the content. See IELTS website; IELTS blog; DC IELTS; Exam centres
TOEFL iBT – General info; Sample test questions; Exam centres
PTE Academic (Pearson) – General info; Practice tests; Exam centres
Cambridge Advanced English – General info; Sample tests; Exam centres
OET – for medical occupations- General info; Sample tests; Exam centres
English exam scores table
English Language proficiency level | Test component | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE Academic (Pearson) | Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)* | OET |
Functional | Average/total/overall | 4.5 | 32 | 23 | 147 | n/a |
Vocational | Listening | 5.0 | 4 | 36 | 154 | B |
Reading | 5.0 | 4 | 36 | 154 | B | |
Writing | 5.0 | 14 | 36 | 154 | B | |
Speaking | 5.0 | 14 | 36 | 154 | B | |
Competent | Listening | 6.0 | 12 | 50 | 169 | B |
Reading | 6.0 | 13 | 50 | 169 | B | |
Writing | 6.0 | 21 | 50 | 169 | B | |
Speaking | 6.0 | 18 | 50 | 169 | B | |
Proficient | Listening | 7.0 | 24 | 65 | 185 | B |
Reading | 7.0 | 24 | 65 | 185 | B | |
Writing | 7.0 | 27 | 65 | 185 | B | |
Speaking | 7.0 | 23 | 65 | 185 | B | |
Superior | Listening | 8.0 | 28 | 79 | 200 | A |
Reading | 8.0 | 29 | 79 | 200 | A | |
Writing | 8.0 | 30 | 79 | 200 | A | |
Speaking | 8.0 | 26 | 79 | 200 | A |