IELTS (General or Academic)
The most common test. Used for both points and threshold requirements. Available globally.
IELTS · PTE · TOEFL · Cambridge · OET
English tests drive up to 20 points.
Our skilled migration team Gurjeev Bhalla and Sourabh Aggarwal plans English testing as part of 189, 190, 491, and 485 strategy. The difference between competent (0 points) and superior (20 points) English can move an applicant from uninvited to invited. Multiple tests are accepted. Here are the equivalences and what to aim for.
Accepted tests
Five approved tests.
Each accepted test has its own scoring scale. Equivalent scores produce equivalent migration outcomes.
PTE Academic
Computer-based test. Results typically faster than IELTS. Often preferred by IT and technical applicants.
TOEFL iBT
Common in Asia and North America. Internet-based test with comparable rigour.
Cambridge C1 Advanced
Less common but accepted. Strong grammar focus.
OET (health professions)
For health professionals only. Required for AHPRA registration. Accepted for migration points.
Score levels
Three migration bands.
Migration outcomes cluster at three score levels.
Competent (baseline)IELTS 6.0 each band / PTE 50 each / TOEFL iBT 60-79 overall. Threshold for most skilled visas. 0 points.
ProficientIELTS 7.0 each band / PTE 65 each / TOEFL iBT 94-101. Strong English. 10 points.
SuperiorIELTS 8.0 each band / PTE 79 each / TOEFL iBT 118+. Near-native. 20 points.
Partner English (5 points)Partner meeting competent English or attending AMEP. 5 points for primary applicant.
Test strategy
Three practical decisions.
Choosing the right test and timing improves outcomes.
Pick the right test for your strengths
Some candidates do better on computer-based tests (PTE). Others prefer paper (IELTS). Practice both if unsure.
Each band matters
Skilled migration looks at each band (listening, reading, writing, speaking) separately. Weak band undermines overall result.
Validity 3 years
Tests valid for 3 years. Plan visa lodgement within the validity window or retake before expiry.
Moving from competent to superior English is the biggest single points gain available.
20 points for a single test result is larger than any other single points category except the full age range. Multiple test attempts to hit superior are often worthwhile. Professional coaching sometimes pays back quickly in migration points.
Common questions
The questions we hear most.
For English test strategy, book with Gurjeev Bhalla.
Can I use the same test for migration and AHPRA/teacher registration?
Sometimes. OET is usually required for AHPRA. IELTS or PTE often acceptable for migration. Check each requirement separately.
Is my English test from my home country accepted?
Only the tests listed above. Regional English tests generally not accepted for Australian migration.
What if I am weak in one band only?
Each band separately must meet the required score. One low band can undermine the whole result. Targeted practice on weak band often pays off.
Can I retake only one band?
Most tests require retaking all bands. PTE allows a one-band retake in some circumstances.
Some information on this page has been sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and has been interpreted and approved by Principal Migration Agent Sourabh Aggarwal (MARN 1462159). Last reviewed: May 2026.