What IELTS score do you need for TasTAFE?

TasTAFE accepts two tests within 12 months when both meet the overall score and one low band on the first is met on the second; the earlier test sets the two-year validity. For nursing the low band may be only one level short, and the IELTS One Skill Retake is subject to the Nursing and Midwifery Board's rules.

The test can be waived with evidence, generally from the last two years: Year 12 or a year of Certificate IV or higher study taught only in English in a specified English-speaking country, Australian Year 12, a foundation course or Certificate IV, five years of study in English in Australia, the UK, the USA, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa or Ireland, or a passport from the UK, USA, New Zealand, Canada or Ireland.

TasTAFE notes the Duolingo English Test is not accepted by Home Affairs for student visa applications, so you may still need another test for your visa. If you fall short, TasTAFE packages 10-week ELICOS blocks: General English from IELTS 4.0, and Academic English from 5.0 to 5.5 and 5.5 to 6.0.

Requirements vary by course, and TasTAFE can change them between intakes. Always confirm the score on your course page before you book a test. Your student visa has its own English rules, set by the Department of Home Affairs.

Your offer and your visa are assessed separately. If Home Affairs asks you for English evidence, the Student visa (subclass 500) page sets these minimums for tests taken on or after 7 August 2025: IELTS Academic or General Training 6.0, PTE Academic 47 or TOEFL iBT 67. With at least 10 weeks of ELICOS (or a Foundation or eligible Pathway program) packaged with your course they drop to 5.5, 39 and 51, and with at least 20 weeks of ELICOS to 5.0, 31 and 37.

The test must be taken within the 2 years before you lodge (Regular Evidence level), or within the 2 years before a decision if you are Streamlined Evidence level and asked for evidence. Tests delivered entirely online, such as IELTS Online and TOEFL iBT Home Edition, are not accepted for the visa, and from 21 January 2026 TOEFL candidates must select 'Taking TOEFL for Australia' when registering.