From 7 August 2025, the Department of Home Affairs expanded the list of accepted English exams and changed the minimum scores for PTE Academic at several English levels. Three new exams are now recognised — CELPIP (General), MET (Michigan English Test) and LanguageCert Academic — alongside IELTS, TOEFL, OET and Cambridge C1 Advanced.
These updates affect Skilled, Employer-Sponsored, Graduate and Student visa applications.
What changed — in brief
- More choice: you can now select from a wider range of exams to meet your visa’s English requirement.
- PTE Academic: minimum scores have been updated. Please check the new minimums in the chart below before booking or relying on older advice.
- IELTS: minimum scores remain the same.
- Transitional results: many tests taken on or before 6 August 2025 can still be used for a period. If you’re unsure whether your result qualifies, ask us to check.
- No at-home versions: online/home editions of exams are not accepted.
Quick reference chart
Important
- Haven’t booked a test? Choose from the current accepted list above and target the correct scores.
- Already have a result? Confirm the test date and whether transitional rules allow its use.
- The chart does not include the minimum requirements for Functional English, Student Visa applications or Graduate Visa applications — ask us for guidance on these.
If you’d like tailored advice on the right test and minimum score for the visa you’re applying for, get in touch and our team will review your situation before you lodge.
GET IN TOUCH HERE
Thanks for reading. Please note this is general information only and does not constitute migration advice.
Bravo Migration
