Starting from 7th August 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) has rolled out essential updates to English-language requirements for visa candidates. These modifications directly impact worldwide students planning to apply their visa in Australia. If you're planning your future, it's important to understand how these new updates may have an effect on your application.
Until recently, visa candidates applying for Australia only had a limited options of English Language tests to pick from. But from August 2025, the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) has extended the list of widespread English-language tests—giving applicants greater flexibility and alternatives. In addition to well-known exams like IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, and Occupational English Test (OET), the following tests are now also conventional:
This extension means that applicants can choose the test that is compatible with their preparation style, test accessibility and strength.
To keep things honest for everyone, the Department of Home Affairs has brought a transitional period. If you took your English on or earlier than 6 August 2025, your outcomes will remain valid under the preceding requirements for up to 3 years (36 months). However, in case if the test was taken on or after 7 August 2025, the new rules and updated score benchmarks will be implemented.
The benchmark marking of the English-language tests has also been adjusted. For applicants, this means that all components of the test have a strong emphasis on achieving balanced results.
| Aspect | Before 6th August 2025 | On or After 7th August 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Validity of Results | IELTS (Academic or General Training, incl. OSR), PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, OET, Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) | Same rule applies – test must be taken within 12 months before lodgement |
| Score Requirements | Old benchmarks (e.g., IELTS 6.5 overall, 5.5 each band; PTE 57 overall; TOEFL iBT 83; OET B; C1 Advanced 176) |
|
| Accepted Tests | IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, OET, Cambridge C1 Advanced | Expanded list: CELPIP, LANGUAGECERT Academic, MET, plus existing IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, OET, Cambridge C1 Advanced |
These reforms form part of Australia’s Migration Strategy. The intention is to draw applicants with true English capability.
The new English language requirements focuses on Australia’s dedication to migration and training requirements. With greater test options and clearer benchmarks, candidates have more flexibility however additionally higher expectations to fulfil.
If you are planning to study or work in Australia, prepare early, choose your language test carefully, and stay updated on the new requirements. Doing so will position you for success under the updated DoHA English language visa rules in 2025 and beyond.
If you are making plans to study or work in Australia, the key is to prepare early, choose your Language test accurately, and information on the updated language requirements. By doing so, you’ll be well-placed for success beneath the new DoHA English language visa requirements in 2025 and past.
For full details, visit the official DoHA page: English Language Requirements - DoHA
