Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Accepted tests and minimum results
Test results must be from the 3 years before you lodge the application, or before the decision if you did not give a test result when applying (Home Affairs).
| Test | Minimum result |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 5.0 in each of listening and speaking |
| PTE Academic | 36 in each of listening and speaking |
| TOEFL iBT | 4 listening and 14 speaking |
| OET | B in each of listening and speaking |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced | 154 in each of listening and speaking |
Ways to meet it without a test
You or your partner meet the requirement if either graduated from secondary school in a Pacific island country; worked in Australia on a visa with work rights for a total of 12 months or more; studied in Australia at secondary level or higher for 12 months or more; or spent 12 months or more working or studying in the UK, US, Canada or New Zealand.
If neither of you can show the level, you can attach a signed PEV English Language Undertaking, agreeing to enrol in the free Adult Migrant English Program after arrival. Home Affairs may still ask for a test if you cannot meet the requirement through these options.
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Other key rules
You can only apply after being selected in the PEV ballot, and you must be aged 18 to 45 inclusive on the date the ballot registration opens for your country.
Rules change, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current requirement on the Home Affairs 192 visa page before you book a test or apply. This guide restates the official page; it is not legal or immigration advice.
Frequently asked questions
Does only one of us need the English level?+
Yes. Home Affairs says you, or your spouse or de facto partner included in the application, must show the required level.
Is IELTS General Training accepted?+
The Home Affairs table names IELTS without specifying a module, and the requirement is on listening and speaking only.
Can I use PTE Core?+
PTE Core is not in the 192 table. The listed Pearson test is PTE Academic.
When should I book a test?+
The result must fall in the 3 years before you apply or before the decision, so you can test after ballot selection.
Keep reading
Related
- Functional English for Australian visas
- English tests accepted for Australian visas
- Is PTE Core accepted in Australia?
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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