The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has made important updates to its English language test policy, effective 7 August 2025. These changes affect which English tests can be used as evidence for visa applications and, in some cases, the score thresholds required to claim points for skilled migration.
Here’s what applicants need to know.
Updated List of Accepted Tests
From 7 August 2025, DHA accepts results from the following tests (taken at an approved test centre):
- Cambridge C1 Advanced (C1 Advanced)
- CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
- IELTS Academic or General Training (including One Skill Retake where eligible)
- LanguageCert Academic
- Michigan English Test (MET Digital – including Single Section Retake where eligible)
- Occupational English Test (OET – for healthcare professionals)
- PTE Academic (new format and scoring system)
- TOEFL iBT (centre-based only)
If your test was taken on or before 6 August 2025, the Department will still accept results from:
- Cambridge English (CAE) / C1 Advanced
- IELTS (Academic or General Training, including One Skill Retake)
- PTE Academic (previous version)
- OET
- TOEFL iBT
These legacy results may continue to be used up to 6 August 2028, depending on the visa subclass and the date your test was taken.
Key Takeaway – Different Tests, Different Scores
While the accepted test list has expanded, some English test score requirements have changed, particularly for PTE Academic. Applicants aiming to claim 10 points (Proficient English) or 20 points (Superior English) may now need higher or varied scores across each band.
If you previously aimed for a “65 in each band” for PTE, this may no longer be sufficient to claim points under the updated policy.
What This Means for You
- Your test may still be valid if taken before 7 August 2025, but the scoring standards have changed.
- If you plan to rely on a PTE Academic or other test taken recently, check the new DHA score requirements.
- Submitting outdated scores could mean missing out on valuable migration points or even eligibility.
How Australian Shores Can Help
We understand how confusing English requirements can be, especially with multiple tests, new versions, and different score mappings.
At Australian Shores, we can:
- Review your English test results against the current DHA criteria.
- Advise whether a re-test is required to maintain your points claim.
- Recommend which test may be best suited to your profile and visa pathway.
For a personalised assessment, contact our team today and ensure your English results are up to date with Australia’s new 2025 requirements.
