🚨 Important Update for International Students – New English Language Test Options for Student Visas (Subclass 500) 🚨
From 7 August 2025, the Australian Government has expanded the list of approved English language tests for Student visas. There are now 9 approved tests, giving you more flexibility when applying! 🎓✈️
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✅ Approved English Tests (from 7 Aug 2025):
1️⃣ IELTS Academic
2️⃣ IELTS General Training
3️⃣ PTE Academic
4️⃣ TOEFL iBT
5️⃣ OET (Occupational English Test)
6️⃣ CELPIP General
7️⃣ Michigan English Test (MET)
8️⃣ LANGUAGECERT Academic
9️⃣ Cambridge C1 Advanced
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📌 Key Updates You Must Know:
More options available – 9 tests accepted.
TOEFL iBT minimum score increased from 64 → 67.
Tests are valid for 2 years depending on evidence level.
Only in-person/centre-based tests are accepted – online versions (IELTS Online, OET@Home, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, etc.) are NOT valid.
TOEFL iBT tests taken between 26 July 2023 – 4 May 2024 are not accepted.
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🎯 Minimum English Scores Required for Subclass 500 Visa
Test Standard With 10 Weeks ELICOS With 20 Weeks ELICOS
IELTS (Academic/General) 6.0 5.5 5.0
PTE Academic 47 39 31
TOEFL iBT 67 51 37
OET 1210 1090 1020
CELPIP General 7 6 5
LANGUAGECERT Academic 61 54 46
MET 53 49 44
Cambridge C1 Advanced 161 ❌ Not accepted ❌ Not accepted
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🎓 Who is Exempt from Providing a Test?
You do not need to provide English test results if you:
Hold a passport from the USA, UK, Canada, NZ, or Ireland.
Are enrolled in ELICOS only, a registered school course, postgraduate research, or a course taught in another language.
Are a Defence, Foreign Affairs, or Exchange student.
Have completed 5+ years of study in English in Australia, USA, UK, Ireland, Canada, NZ, or South Africa.
Recently completed Australian Year 12 or AQF Cert IV+ in English while on a Student visa.
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📬 Need Guidance? We Can Help!
At MW Migration Solutions, we specialise in personalised support for international students. Whether you’re applying for a Student visa, planning to package your studies with ELICOS, or unsure which English test is best for you – we’re here to guide you
student@mwmigration.com.au