English Test Preparation
Australia-specific score requirements for IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, and Duolingo English Test — for visas and university admission in 2026.
Score requirements by visa type
| Requirement | Use case | IELTS | PTE Academic | TOEFL iBT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Competent English | Minimum for most skilled visas | 6.0 (each band) | 50 (each communicative skill) | 12 L / 13 R / 21 W / 18 S |
| Proficient English | +10 points in skilled visa test | 7.0 (each band) | 65 (each communicative skill) | 24 L / 24 R / 27 W / 23 S |
| Superior English | +20 points in skilled visa test | 8.0 (each band) | 79 (each communicative skill) | 28 L / 29 R / 30 W / 26 S |
| Student Visa (Subclass 500) | Minimum for most institutions | 5.5–6.5 (varies by institution) | 42–58 (varies) | 46–79 (varies) |
All four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) must individually meet the threshold — averaging is not permitted.
Choose your test
IELTS Academic
International English Language Testing System
The most widely accepted English test in Australia. Required for skilled migration visas, student visas, and most university admissions.
Format: 4 sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Score: Band score 0–9 (each section and overall)
Valid for: 3 years
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PTE Academic
Pearson Test of English Academic
Computer-based test with fast results (typically 48 hours). Accepted by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and most Australian universities.
Format: Computer-based: Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Score: Score 10–90 (overall and per section)
Valid for: 3 years
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TOEFL iBT
Test of English as a Foreign Language (internet-based)
Internet-based test widely accepted for Australian university admissions. Accepted for some skilled migration visas but not all — check current Department of Home Affairs requirements.
Format: Online: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing
Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours
Score: Score 0–120 (overall and per section)
Valid for: 3 years
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Duolingo English Test
Duolingo English Test (DET)
Online adaptive test accepted by a growing number of Australian universities. Not currently accepted by the Department of Home Affairs for visa applications.
Format: Online adaptive test
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Score: Score 10–160
Valid for: 2 years
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Your English score affects your points
For skilled migration visas, achieving Superior English (IELTS 8.0 in all bands) gives you 20 extra points — the difference between waiting years for an invitation and getting one in the next round.