New English Language Tests Approved for Australian Student Visa Applications (2025 Update)

If Australia is the place you chose for studies, then you must know meeting the English language requirement is a key part of the Student visa application process. And from 7 August 2025onwards, the Australian Government has updated its list of approved English language tests, giving international students more flexibility and choice when applying for their Student visa.

Let us explore what the latest update means for you, which tests are now accepted and what you should know before booking your test.

The Department of Home Affairs officially expanded the list of accepted English language tests for Student visa applications. There are now nine approved tests.

Key Highlights:

• More options: You can now choose from nine different tests to prove your English proficiency.

• Existing tests still valid: The previously approved tests remain acceptable.

• English proficiency level unchanged: While the required level of English hasn't changed, some test score requirements have been slightly adjusted to align standards across different test formats. For example, the minimum TOEFL iBT score has increased from 64 to 67.

• Effective immediately: Only results from tests taken on or after 7 August 2025 will be accepted from the new test providers.

• 24-month validity: In most cases, if your test was taken on or before 6 August 2025, it will still be valid for 24 months prior to your visa application date, depending on your evidence level.
  

Updated List of Approved English Language Tests (as of 7 August 2025)

Here are the nine English language test providers that are now officially recognised for Student visa applications in Australia:

1. Cambridge C1 Advanced Test (C1 Advanced)

2. Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program General (CELPIP General)

3. International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic)

4. International English Language Testing System General Training (IELTS General Training)

5. LANGUAGECERT Academic Test

6. Michigan English Test (MET)

7. Occupational English Test (OET)

8. Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)

9. Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT)

What This Means for Students

This newly expanded list gives future students greater flexibility and accessibility when proving their English skills. With the inclusion of tests like CELPIP and MET, more students can take advantage of local test centers or formats they are more familiar with.

However, it's crucial to ensure the following when applying for your visa:

• The test is taken after 7 August 2025 (for the new tests).

• You achieve the required minimum score for your course and visa level.

• The test must be valid and recognized by the Department of Home Affairs.

Final Thoughts

With Australia being one of the most popular destinations for international students, this change is a welcome step in making the process more inclusive and flexible. By expanding the list of accepted English language tests, the Australian Government is helping more students achieve their study abroad dreams without compromising on language proficiency standards.