English Language Ability – Points

If you want to claim points for proficient or superior English language ability you will need to complete a relevant English language test.

Your test must have been completed before your visa application is lodged and be from a test you sat no more than two years before the day of making your application.

English levels

The following table shows the English language levels, the points you are awarded and the evidence you will need to provide.

Level of English	Points	Evidence required
Superior	20	You must provide one of the following: IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) Number to show you have a band score of at least eight on each of the four components – speaking, reading, listening and writing or evidence that you undertook a language test and attained a score as specified by the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship.
Proficient	10	You must provide one of the following: IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) Number to show you have a band score of at least seven on each of the four components – speaking, reading, listening and writing. or evidence that you undertook a language test and attained a score as specified by the minister.
Competent	0	You must provide one of the following: evidence that you hold an eligible passport or IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) Number to show you have a band score of at least six on each of the four components – speaking, reading, listening and writing or evidence that you undertook a language test and attained a score as specified by the minister.

Which English language test should you sit?

Generally, you will be required to sit the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test to assess your English language ability. Occupational English Test (OET) results may also be provided as evidence of your English language ability.
Note: OET is currently only available for health practitioners.

What is the IELTS?

The IELTS is a test designed to assess an applicant's English language ability. It has an academic test and a general training test – you need only take the general training test unless otherwise advised by your skills assessing authority.

IELTS examinations are available worldwide and further information is available on their website.
See: International English Language Testing System

Before lodging an application, please read all related requirements.

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