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Updates to the English language prerequisites for obtaining a work or student visa in Australia have made the popular TOEFL iBT test applicable for the first time with changes also being made to include the IELTS OSR and the Cambridge C1 advanced test.
The TOEFL iBT is a very popular English language test which is used as a benchmark by higher education institutions across the world, as well as at all Australian universities, to decide whether applicants possess good enough English language skills to commence their desired studies.
TOEFL iBT tests completed between July 26 2023 and May 4 2024 are not accepted for Australian visa and migration purposes but the test does allow test takers to complete an at home or online version.
The changes also mean visa applicants can complete an IELTS OSR (One Skill Retake) test, which allows test takers to complete one component of the test; reading, writing, speaking or listening. This test can be used for applications for all visas except subclass 476 (Recognised Graduate visa), 482 (Temporary Skills Shortage visa) and 485 (Temporary Graduate visa) which need the results of an IELTS test taken in a single sitting.
Results of the Cambridge C1 Advanced paper-based and computer-based tests taken before February 12 are accepted but only the paper-based version of the test will be used for assessing visa applications.
A TOEFL iBT total band test score of at least 32 no more than 12 months before the application date is required to demonstrate functional English. A minimum score of 4 for the listening component, 4 for reading, 14 for writing and 14 for speaking is required to show a vocational level of English.
A score of 12 for listening, 13 for reading, 21 for writing and 18 for speaking shows a competent level and 24 for listening, 24 for reading, 27 for writing and 23 for speaking shows proficient English.
Scores of at least 28 for listening, 29 for reading, 30 for writing and 26 for speaking are needed to demonstrate a superior level of English.