Big Changes to Australia’s English Test Requirements – Effective 7 August 2025

If you’re planning to apply for an Australian skilled visa, study permit, or any visa that requires proof of English proficiency, you need to know about the major changes that took effect from 7 August 2025.

These changes impact which English tests you can take, the minimum scores required, and how your test results are used in your Expression of Interest (EOI). Here’s everything you need to know.

1. More Approved English Tests

From 7 August 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has expanded the list of accepted English language tests. In addition to IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, and OET, the following tests are now accepted:

• CELPIP General

• LanguageCert Academic

• Michigan English Test (MET)

• Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE)

This gives applicants more flexibility when choosing a test provider.

2. Higher Score Requirements

The new rules have raised the minimum scores for all English proficiency bands — Functional, Vocational, Competent, Proficient, and Superior English.

For example, Competent English now requires:

• IELTS: At least 6.0 in each band (no change, but still critical for many visas)

• PTE Academic: Listening 47, Reading 48, Writing 51, Speaking 54 (higher than before)

• TOEFL iBT: Listening 16, Reading 16, Writing 19, Speaking 19

If you are aiming for Proficient or Superior English to boost your migration points, be prepared for tougher score thresholds.

3. Impact on Your Expression of Interest (EOI)

Your EOI score in the SkillSelect system depends partly on your English test results.

• If your test is taken before 7 August 2025, you can still use it for up to 3 years under the old scoring rules.

• If your test is taken on or after 7 August 2025, you must meet the new higher scores.

This could mean that if you don’t plan ahead, your EOI points may be lower than expected.

4. Transitional Arrangements

If you already have a valid English test score taken on or before 6 August 2025, you’re in luck — it will be accepted under the old scoring rules until it expires (usually 3 years from the test date).

5. What This Means for You

• Plan early — If your scores are close to the old threshold, consider taking your test before the 7 August deadline (if you haven’t already).

• Choose the right test — With more test options available, pick the one that suits your strengths.

• Check your visa subclass requirements — Different visas require different minimum scores.

• Prepare thoroughly — The higher benchmarks mean preparation is more important than ever.

How My Travel International Can Help

At My Travel International, we specialize in guiding clients through the visa application process — from choosing the right English test to lodging your Expression of Interest successfully.

We offer:

• IELTS, PTE & TOEFL training to help you achieve your target score

• Visa eligibility assessments

• EOI and visa application support

• Step-by-step migration planning

📍 Visit Us: Khetias Building, 4th Floor, Eldoret
📞 Call/WhatsApp: 0722622157
🌐 Website: www.mytravelinternational.co.ke

Final Word:
These new changes make English test preparation more important than ever for your Australian migration plans. With expert guidance and the right preparation, you can still achieve your dream of living and working in Australia — even under the updated rules.