English Language Requirements to Study in Australia
Australia is one of the top choices for students who like to study abroad. After the USA and UK, Australia is considered as the third most popular study destination for international students.
It is home to the world’s eight most popular universities that comprises vocational universities and colleges with 22,000 courses for the international students.
If you are among those International students who wish to study in Australia, you need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, depending on your country of origin and educational background.
Why English?
Although Australia has no such official language yet, English is considered as the de facto national language of the country, spoken by all.
English is mandatory for students as it helps them to cope comfortably with tutorials, assignments, examinations, and lectures.
Proficiency levels you can achieve
The Australian Department of Home Affairs recognises 5 English language tests for student visa applications in Australia. These are:
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International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
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Occupational English Test (OET)
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Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
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Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
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Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
These tests have several proficiency levels to achieve, such as Functional, Vocational, Competent, Proficient and Superior.
| English Level | Scores to Achieve Level |
|---|---|
| Functional English |
|
| Vocational English |
|
| Competent English |
|
| Proficient English |
|
| Superior English |
|
Who is exempt from providing evidence with their visa application?
Almost every International student needs to meet English language requirements to enrol in a course and to receive a student visa in Australia. But, there are a few exceptions when students don’t need to prove their English language proficiency.
These exceptions are:
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Students who have completed their studies in the Republic of Ireland, the U.S.A, UK, New Zealand, Australia or Canada.
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Passport holders and citizens of the USA, UK, Republic of Ireland or Canada.
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Defense or Foreign affairs sponsored students.
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Students who appear in a standalone ELICOS program, postgraduate research or full-time in school studies as a main course.
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Students who have completed the study at Certificate IV level or higher or completed the Senior Secondary certificate in Australia within 2 years of applying for a student visa.
Apart from these students, all other candidates need to prove their English language proficiency to study in Australia.
Undoubtedly, studying in Australia is one of the best ways to experience a unique Aussie lifestyle while learning new skills.
With world-class universities, English language schools and practical vocational colleges to support International students, Australia is the first choice of students who are keen to study abroad.
Even the University Ranking of Quacquarelli Symonds stated that The University of New South Wales, The University of Sydney, The Australian National University, The University of Queensland, and the University of Melbourne are among the top 50 best universities in the world.
So, if you are already proficient in English and want to study at any of these top universities, then you can easily migrate to Australia.
Useful Links to Explore:
- How to find Part-Time work as a Student in Australia
- English Language Courses Overview (ELICOS)
- Top Five Reasons To Study in Australia
- Seven Tips for Students on a Budget in Australia
- How to get a Scholarship to Study in Australia
- Driving in Australia as an International Student
- Cultural differences you may experience in Australia
- The Benefits of a Professional Year Program (PYP)
- How to study in Australia?