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English Language Requirements

Many visa classes require the main applicant and their family to have a certain level of English language. To show your level of English language you will usually be required to undertake an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test.

The IELTS is a test designed to assess your English language ability. There are two tests – the academic test and a general test – you need only take the general test unless otherwise advised by your skills assessing authority. Please make sure you know which level IELTS you require for your skills assessment as many skills assessing authorities require a higher level result on the IELTS than is required for the visa.

English	IELTS score required	Skilled Migration Points for English
Superior	A score of at least 8.0 in each of the four components of the General IELTS test or an equivalent level in an OET exam, where you sat the OET exam as part of your skills assessment. There are no exemptions for specified passport holders.	20
Proficient	A score of at least seven (7) on each of the four (4) bands - speaking, reading, listening and writing. OR A score of B or higher in the OET.	10
Competent	A score of at least six (6) on each of the four (4) bands – speaking, reading, listening and writing.	nil
Functional	An average score of at least 4.5 based on all four (4) bands – speaking, reading, listening, and writing.	nil

If you are the holder of a passport of one of the following countries; United Kingdom (UK), Canada, New Zealand, United States of America (USA) or Republic of Ireland and your main spoken language is English then you will not usually be required to undertake an IELTS and your English language will be classified as Competent.

The English language test used to evidence your language level must be completed before the application is lodged and be completed within 24 months of lodging the visa application.