Changes to English Language Tests for Visa Applicants from 7 August 2025

Changes to English Language Tests for Visa Applicants from 7 August 2025

Starting 7 August 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs is updating its list of accepted English language tests and revising score requirements for visa applicants.

New Accepted English Tests

From this date, applicants can submit results from three newly approved tests:

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

These test results will be considered valid for up to 3 years from the date of testing, aligning with existing test validity standards.

Updated Score Requirements

To ensure consistency across all testing formats, score thresholds for the following tests have been revised:

• PTE Academic
• C1 Advanced
• OET
• TOEFL iBT

These changes aim to align required scores more accurately with the levels of English proficiency expected under Australia’s visa framework.

Important Note: The C1 Advanced test is no longer accepted for Vocational English requirements

Scores for Subclass 500 Visa Application

Validity of English tests for a Subclass 500 Student visa application

• English evidence provided at time of application
  • The test must be no more than 24 months old on the day the visa application is lodged
• English evidence provided after lodgement
  • The test must be no more than 24 months old on the day the Department makes its decision on the visa application.

Scores for Subclass 485 Visa Application

Subclass 485 Visa Application for Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders

Validity of English test for Subclass 485 visa application

• Evidence of English is provided at the time of application and the test is not more than 12 months old on the day the Sc 485 application is lodged.
• The required score has been achieved in a single sitting (unless it is an OET).

Vocational, Competent, Proficient and Superior English Language Proficiency

Validity of English tests relevant to LIN 25/016
The English test must be taken no more than 36 months before the visa application is lodged.

Functional English

The Migration (Evidence of Functional English Language Proficiency) Instrument 2025 (LIN25/014) updated the test scores which are used to establish functional English language proficiency for an English language test that is conducted after 7 August 2025.

This instrument applies to visa subclasses and nominations which refer to a functional English language proficiency and do not have a separate English language instrument.

The table below shows the required tests scores and relevant providers to meet a functional English language proficiency depending on whether the English was conducted  before 7 August (same as old instrumentor Part 2 (7) of the new instrument), on or after 7 August 2025 (new instrument LIN25/014).

Validity of English tests relevant to LIN 25/014

The English language test must have been taken either:
(A) within 12 months immediately before the application date; or
(B) on or after the application date.

How We Can Help

At First Class Migration Australia, we understand that navigating these changes can be overwhelming. Our team of highly experienced migration agents are here to guide you through the evolving migration policies, offering personalised advice to maximize your chances of successful migration. We stay up to date with the latest developments and provide timely advice to ensure you make informed decisions.

Contact Us

If you have any questions on the above article please do not hesitate to contact us.

02 9999 6668