Student Visa English Requirement Update – New Tests and Score Changes from 7 August 2025

The Department of Home Affairs has announced significant updates to Student Visa English requirement testing options and score requirements for Student Visa (Subclass 500) applicants. These updates take effect from 7 August 2025.

✅ New Accepted English Language Tests

Starting from this date, Student visa applicants can now provide results from the following newly approved tests:

• CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
• LANGUAGECERT Academic
• Michigan English Test (MET)

These new options are in addition to existing approved tests:

• IELTS Academic / General Training (including One Skill Retake)
• PTE Academic
• TOEFL iBT (secure test centres only)
• OET (Occupational English Test)
• Cambridge C1 Advanced (where applicable)

⚠️ Note: Online or at-home versions of tests (like IELTS Online or MET Digital) are not accepted.

🎯 Updated Minimum English Score Requirements

Students enrolled in 10–20 weeks of ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) may be eligible to apply with lower scores.

📆 Tests Taken Before 7 August 2025

If your English test was taken before 7 August 2025, you may still use that result as long as:

• It meets the requirements under the previous policy (LIN 24/022), and
• It’s within the valid test period (usually 2 years).

🌏 Who Is Exempt from English Testing?

You do not need to submit English test results if you hold a valid passport from one of these countries:

• United Kingdom
• United States
• Canada
• New Zealand
• Republic of Ireland

💡 What This Means for You

• Review your English test type and score before applying.
• Confirm your test date and ensure it’s within the 3-year validity period.
• If you’re unsure which test suits your situation, professional guidance can help.

🧭 Need Help Understanding These Updates?

If you’re planning to apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500), Migration Dreamz can guide you through the new English test requirements and ensure your application meets the latest Department of Home Affairs standards.

📞 Contact Migration Dreamz today for expert visa advice.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When do the new Student visa English requirements start?
The new English test list and score updates start from 7 August 2025.

Q2: Can I still use my old English test results?
Yes — if the test was taken before 7 August 2025, and your score meets the requirements under the previous rules, it may still be valid.

Q3: How long are English test results valid for Student visa applications?
Most English test results are valid for 2 years from the date of the test.

Q4: Can I use IELTS One Skill Retake for my Student visa application?
Yes, IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) results are accepted for both Academic and General Training versions.

Q5: Who is exempt from providing English test results?
Applicants with valid passports from the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, or Republic of Ireland are exempt from English testing requirements.