English Testing

Letter to the Editor - Sydney Morning Herald
10 May 2005

Dear Sir/Madam

Your readers may be interested to know English language testing arrangements for overseas students have been strengthened to fight fraud (English tests faked to cheat on residency, 9/1/05).

The administrators of the test have developed a global database of results and photos of those who sat the test.

This database is used by the Immigration Department to check all test results. The department does not rely solely on paper certificates as proof a person passed the test.

It is important to remember the vast majority of overseas students seeking a visa are genuine, successfully complete their courses and many go on to become valuable permanent residents and citizens.

Roger Wheatley
Acting Director
Public Affairs
DIMIA