What IELTS score do I need for Australia PR?

Skilled visas need at least competent English: 6.0 in each of listening, reading, writing and speaking. Scoring 7.0 in each (proficient) adds 10 points and 8.0 in each (superior) adds 20 points.

Does Australia accept IELTS General Training?

Yes. Home Affairs accepts both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, taken at a test centre.

How long are IELTS results valid for Australia?

Usually up to 3 years before your visa application, depending on the visa subclass.

Is IELTS Online accepted for Australian visas?

No. Home Affairs does not accept tests taken fully online or at home.

IELTS score requirements for Australian visas

Checked against official sources on 30 September 2026

Australian visas describe English in five levels, from functional to superior. Both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training are accepted. Here are the scores for each level from the Department of Home Affairs.

Test accepted: IELTS Academic or GT
Competent English: 6.0 in each skill
Most points (20): 8.0 in each skill
Results valid: Up to 3 years

IELTS scores for each English level (tests taken on or after 7 August 2025)

English level	IELTS score	Points (skilled visas)
Functional English	Average of 4.5 across the four skills	–
Vocational English	5.0 in each skill	–
Competent English	6.0 in each skill	0
Proficient English	7.0 in each skill	10
Superior English	8.0 in each skill	20

Why proficient and superior English matter

Points-tested skilled visas such as the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) need at least competent English, which earns no points. Proficient English adds 10 points and superior English adds 20, which can make a big difference to whether you are invited.

The 7 August 2025 changes

On 7 August 2025 the list of approved English tests changed. IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training are both still accepted, including One Skill Retake for eligible visas, and the IELTS scores for each level stayed the same.

Results from tests taken on or before 6 August 2025 can still be used until 6 August 2028, depending on the visa. Tests must be taken at a test centre: IELTS Online is not accepted.

Who does not need a test

Citizens of the UK, the USA, Canada, New Zealand and Ireland who hold a valid passport from that country are treated as having competent English. You still need a test to claim points for proficient or superior English.

Questions

What IELTS score do I need for Australia PR?: Skilled visas need at least competent English: 6.0 in each of listening, reading, writing and speaking. Scoring 7.0 in each (proficient) adds 10 points and 8.0 in each (superior) adds 20 points.
Does Australia accept IELTS General Training?: Yes. Home Affairs accepts both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, taken at a test centre.
How long are IELTS results valid for Australia?: Usually up to 3 years before your visa application, depending on the visa subclass.
Is IELTS Online accepted for Australian visas?: No. Home Affairs does not accept tests taken fully online or at home.

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Official sources

TestWise Prep is an independent practice site and is not affiliated with any government, regulator or IELTS. Requirements change, so always confirm on the official pages before you book a test or apply.