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Proof of your English competency

Proof English CompetencyStrong English communication skills are the key  to success in your new life in Australia. As a result, in order to qualify for an Australian visa, you must provide evidence of English proficiency. The level required will depend on the type of visa you are applying for.  Below are the ways you can fulfill this requirement:

1. IELTS

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a very popular test for Australian migrants and students. There are 2 versions of the test, Academic or General, with each test measuring your listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. Your test result must have been achieved within the 12 months before you lodge your visa application, or you can complete the test while the application is being processed. Learn more about IELTS


2. Adult Migrant English Service (AMES) English assessment

If you are already based in Sydney, New South Wales (NSW), the Adult Migrant English System can assess your level of functional English using the International Second Language Proficiency Ratings (ISLPR) test. You must reach a minimum of level 2 in order to qualify for any visa, though some visas may require a higher result. The test measures your listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills, and costs $330. You cannot do this assessment outside NSW or overseas. Learn more about this assessment.


3. Previous education conducted in English

If you have completed your education in ONE of the ways below, this will serve as proof of your English competency.

  1. You have completed all of your primary education and a minimum of 3 years of your secondary education in a school that teaches ENTIRELY in English. The school can be located in Australia or overseas.

  2. You have completed a minimum of 5 years of secondary education in an school that teaches ENTIRELY in English. The school can be located in Australia or overseas.

  3. You have completed a minimum of 1 year of full-time study (or the equivalent in part-time study) towards a degree, post-graduate degree, diploma, or associate diploma at an institution that teaches ENTIRELY in English. The school must be located in Australia.

  4. You have completed a degree, post-graduate degree, diploma, or a trade certificate (requiring a minimum of 2 years of full-time study) The program was taught ENTIRELY in English. The institution can be located in Australia or overseas.  


4. Australian Assessment of Communicative English Skills (ACCESS)

You must demonstrate a functional level of English in an Australian Assessment of Communicative English Skills (ACCESS) test, with the result being certified by the relevant testing body. The test result must have been received within the 12 months prior to your application for the visa, or you can take the test while you visa application is being processed.