English Language Requirements Update for Visas in Australia
As we have been discussing in previous posts, the Australian Government has made changes to the English language requirements for Student and Temporary Graduate visas.
This change was announced as part of the Australian Government’s Migration Strategy published on December 11, 2023, and began to apply to all Student and Temporary Graduate visa applications submitted since March 23, 2024.
Temporary Graduate Visa (485): The minimum score required for a Temporary Graduate Visa (TGV) on the IELTS (or equivalent) exam has increased from 6.0 to 6.5 points, with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component of the exam. Additionally, the validity period of the exam for a TGV has been reduced from three to one year. Now, TGV applicants must provide evidence that they have completed the English exam within the year immediately preceding the visa application date.
Student Visa (500): The minimum score on the IELTS (or equivalent) required to enrol in a Higher Education or Vocational Education and Training (VET) course has increased from 5.5 to 6 points. The minimum score to undertake an English course (ELICOS) packaged from IELTS has increased from 4.5 to 5.0 points.
The primary objective of these changes in the minimum English level, according to the Australian Immigration, is to enhance the educational experience of international students and minimize the risk of labour exploitation.
Additionally, it is expected that these adjustments will strengthen the integrity of the migration system and ensure that international students are better prepared for the academic and work environment in Australia. Ultimately, the Australian Government seeks to promote a more robust and fair educational environment that benefits both international students and Australian society as a whole.
Jessica Rodriguez
Spanish journalist settled in WA. Her two greatest passions, family and nature, make her see each new day as an opportunity to work on a better world.