English Tests for Australia: Complete Guide for Study, Work & Migration

For anyone dreaming of studying, working, or migrating to Australia, proving English proficiency is a non-negotiable step. The English tests for Australia serves as an official benchmark for your ability to communicate in academic, professional, and everyday settings. Whether you're aiming for a world-class Australian university, applying for a skilled migration visa, or seeking professional registration, your English test score can determine the course of your future.

This guide dives deep into the categories of accepted English tests, their scoring systems, university acceptance, visa requirements, and practical ways to save money on your exam fees through EduVouchers. We'll also provide persona-based recommendations to help you choose the right test for your needs.

Categories of Accepted English Tests for Australia

Australia recognises multiple purposes of student visas, skilled migration, and healthcare registration. Here's a breakdown:

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

The IELTS is one of the most widely accepted English proficiency tests in the world and is the top choice for many students, professionals, and migrants moving to Australia. It measures your ability to communicate in English across four key skills.

• Skills Tested: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
• Format: Paper-based or computer-delivered
• Acceptance: All Australian universities, colleges, and government immigration processes
• Typical University Requirement:

• Undergraduate: 6.0–6.5 overall, no band less than 6.0

• Postgraduate: 6.5–7.0 overall, no band less than 6.0

TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based)

The TOEFL iBT is a globally recognised English proficiency test, trusted by universities, employers, and immigration authorities worldwide, including in Australia. It evaluates how well you can use and understand English in an academic and professional context, making it a strong choice for students and skilled migrants.

• Skills Tested: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing
• Format: Fully online, test centres worldwide
• Acceptance: All major Australian universities and many professional registration bodies
• Typical University Requirement:

• Undergraduate: 79–90 overall

• Postgraduate: 94–100+ overall

PTE Academic Australia (Pearson Test of English Academic)

The PTE Academic is a fully computer-based English proficiency test designed for academic, professional, and visa purposes. It is a popular choice among students and skilled migrants to Australia who want a quick and efficient testing experience.

• Skills Tested: Speaking & Writing, Reading, Listening
• Format: Fully computer-based, AI-assessed
• Acceptance: All Australian universities are 100% recognised for visas
• Typical University Requirement:

• Undergraduate: 50–58 overall

• Postgraduate: 58–65 overall

Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE / C1 Advanced)

Officially known as C1 Advanced, it is a high-level English qualification provided by Cambridge Assessment English. It’s designed to demonstrate advanced proficiency suitable for academic and professional contexts.

• Skills Tested: Reading & Use of English, Writing, Listening, Speaking
• Acceptance: Many Australian universities and visa categories
• Typical University Requirement: 169–176+ score (aligned to CEFR scale)

OET (Occupational English Test)

The OET is a specialised English proficiency exam tailored specifically for healthcare professionals. It assesses language skills in real-world medical and clinical settings, making it highly relevant for those aiming to work, register, or study in English-speaking healthcare environments.

• Skills Tested: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking with profession-specific content
• Acceptance: Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
• Typical Requirement: Grade B in all sub-tests

Scoring Criteria

IELTS

The IELTS test is scored on a band scale from 0 to 9, where each band represents a specific level of English proficiency:

• Band 9 – Expert user (fluent, accurate, fully operational command of English)
• Band 6 – Competent user (effective, though with some mistakes in unfamiliar situations)
• Band 0 – Did not attempt the test
• Scale: 0–9 bands
• Visa Minimum: 6.0 overall for student visas
• University Competitiveness: Top universities like the University of Melbourne often demand a minimum GPA of 7.0

TOEFL iBT

The TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet-based Test) is scored on a scale of 0 to 120 points.

• The score is the sum of four sections- Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, each worth up to 30 points.
• Higher scores indicate a stronger ability to understand and use English in academic and professional settings.
• Scale: 0–120 points
• Visa Minimum: 46
• University Competitiveness: The Group of Eight universities may require 100+

PTE Academic

The PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic) is scored on a scale from 10 to 90 points.

• Your score reflects your overall English proficiency as well as individual skills in Speaking & Writing, Reading, and Listening.
• The test is AI-scored, ensuring consistent and unbiased results.
• Scale: 10–90 points
• Visa Minimum: 42
• University Competitiveness: Prestigious courses may require a minimum of 65

CAE (C1 Advanced)

The CAE (Cambridge English: Advanced) test is scored on a scale from 160 to 210, which is aligned with the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

• Your result is reported both as a numerical score and as a CEFR level (B2, C1, or C2).
• It tests Reading & Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking, with an emphasis on advanced language skills for academic and professional contexts.
• Scale: 160–210 (aligned with CEFR)
• Visa Minimum: 162
• University Competitiveness: Higher-ranking courses prefer 180+

OET

The OET is specifically designed for healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, dentists, and pharmacists.

• It is graded from A to E in each skill: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, with tasks tailored to real healthcare scenarios.
• Scale: A–E grades
• Visa Minimum: Grade B in each skill

Choosing the Right English Test – User Personas

Persona A – The Global Academic

If you want to apply to top-ranked universities across Australia, like ANU, the University of Sydney, and Monash, here are the right English tests for you.

• Best Test: IELTS or TOEFL (widest recognition)
• Reason: Easier to match diverse program requirements.
• Pro Tip: Aim for above the minimum requirement, even a 0.5 band or 5–10 points higher can make your application more competitive for merit-based scholarships.

Persona B – The Tech Graduate

If you want a fast, fully digital English test with quick results to apply for IT or Engineering courses in Australia, here’s the best option for you.

• Best Test: PTE Academic
• Reason: AI-scored, results in 48 hours, all universities accept it.
• Pro Tip: Since PTE is adaptive, mastering the interface and timing can give you a significant edge. Focus on integrated tasks that test multiple skills at once, such as speaking and writing in a single prompt.

Persona C – The Healthcare Professional

If you’re a nurse, doctor, or other healthcare professional aiming for registration with AHPRA in Australia, here’s the most suitable English test for you.

• Best Test: OET
• Reason: Profession-specific scenarios improve relevance and performance.
• Pro Tip: Even if your university accepts IELTS or PTE, taking OET can help you meet both academic and licensing requirements in one go.

Persona D – The Budget Planner

If you’re looking to save money on your English tests for Australian applications and visas, here’s the most budget-friendly option for you.

• Best Test: PTE or LanguageCert
• Reason: Discounted vouchers, quick results, visa approved.
• Pro Tip: Book early through EduVouchers to lock in discounts and book your preferred test dates. Last-minute bookings often cost more.

Cost-Effective Strategies for Booking Your English Test

EduVouchers is a one-stop solution for booking your English tests for Australia at discounted rates.

How to Maximise Your Savings:

1. Check Current Offers – EduVouchers regularly provides promo codes for PTE, TOEFL, Duolingo, etc.
2. Book Early – Ensures availability and the best price.
3. Read Reviews – Use real user feedback to make test choices.
4. Use Cashback Platforms – Double savings with referral rewards or cashback.

Preparation Strategies

• Match the Test to Your Strengths: If you excel in writing, IELTS may suit you; if you prefer computer-based adaptive tests, try PTE.
• Practice with Official Resources: Avoid relying solely on free online material.
• Time Management: Simulate full-length exams to build stamina.
• Understand Question Patterns: Each test type has unique traps and formats.
• Seek Professional Guidance: Especially if aiming for competitive programs.

What's Next?

• Explore in-depth blogs on Australian universities and visa processes.
• Visit EduVouchers now and grab your discounted voucher.
• Your Australian English test journey begins by aligning your choice with your academic or migration goals.

Conclusion

The English tests for Australia is more than a requirement; it’s your ticket to opportunities in one of the world's most dynamic educational and professional landscapes. Whether you choose IELTS for its global recognition, PTE Academic Australia for speed, OET for healthcare relevance, or TOEFL for academic reputation, success begins with preparation and the right strategy.

By leveraging platforms like EduVouchers, you can reduce costs, secure your test date, and focus on achieving the score you need. Align your choice with your career goals, prepare with precision, and you'll be one step closer to turning your Australian dream into reality.