Official Announcement on English Language Requirements for Visa 500 and Visa 485
New English language requirements apply to all applications for Visa 500 and Visa 485 submitted on or after March 23, 2024, specifically:
For Student Visa (Subclass 500):
- IELTS requirement: Increased from 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent).
- Minimum IELTS score for entry into ELICOS courses (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students):
- Increased from 4.5 to 5.0 (or equivalent).
- No English test required for international students applying only for standalone ELICOS courses (English study only).
For Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485):
- IELTS requirement:
- Increased from 6.0 to 6.5 overall, with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component (Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening).
- Validity of English test results:
- Test results must be from within 1 year prior to the date of visa application
