The Australian Government has updated the English Language Requirements for Student and Temporary Graduate visas.

This update was part of the Australian Government’s Migration Strategy announced on 11 December 2023. It affects all visa applications submitted on or after 23 March 2024.

The Migration Strategy aims to help international students have a better educational experience in Australia and get ready for work after they graduate.

Temporary Graduate visa (TGV)

For a TGV, the minimum required score on the IELTS test goes up from 6.0 to 6.5 (or equivalent). Each part of the test (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) needs a minimum score of 5.5.
The time frame for the test’s validity reduces from 3 years to 1 year. TGV applicants now need to show proof that they took an English Language test within 1 year before applying for the visa.

Student visa

For a Student visa, the minimum score on the IELTS test goes up from 5.5 to 6 (or its equivalent).
The minimum score needed to take a packaged ELICOS course from IELTS increases from 4.5 to 5.0.
There’s no change for students studying English only through ELICOS.
Students enrolled in university foundation or pathway programs that provide good English language training need an IELTS score of 5.5 (or equivalent).
Raising the English language requirements for students in VET and higher education courses means those taking packaged ELICOS courses also need higher scores.

This helps students transition smoothly into their main course with the right level of English.

For more details on changes to the English Language requirements for students, check out “Meet English language requirements.“