Master 9 English Tests: Your Australian Visa Breakthrough

Look, if you are planning to apply for an Australian visa, the English language requirements just changed. And you need to know what is different before you book your test.

From 7 August 2025, the Department accepts nine English tests instead of five. More options. More flexibility. But also some traps if you are not paying attention.

What Changed on 7 August 2025

More Tests Are Now Accepted

You used to have five options. Now you have nine. That means you can pick a test format that suits how you perform best. Some people do better with IELTS. Others prefer PTE. Now you have more choices for your skilled visa application.

Scoring Has Been Aligned

The Department adjusted how scores from different providers are compared. The goal is fairer assessment across different test types. Same English ability, same outcome. That is the idea.

Old Test Results Still Count

If you took one of the previously accepted tests on or before 6 August 2025, your results may still be valid for up to three years. Check the specific requirements for your visa subclass.

Online Tests Are Still Not Accepted

Here is where people get caught. Tests delivered entirely online, like IELTS Online or TOEFL iBT Home Edition, are not accepted. You must sit your test at an approved test centre. No exceptions.

I have seen people book the wrong test, take it at home, then discover their results are worthless for their visa application. Do not let that be you.

Special Rules for the Subclass 482

If you are applying for a Subclass 482 visa, the rules change on 13 September 2025. Not August. September. This is important.

What you need to know:

• Three new test options become available from that date

• Some existing tests and score requirements will change

• Cambridge C1 Advanced tests taken on or after 13 September 2025 will no longer be accepted for 482 visas

• If you take your test before 13 September, your results stay valid for three years under the old rules

• Exemptions for English-speaking countries and Labour Agreements remain unchanged

If you were planning to use Cambridge C1 Advanced for a 482 visa, book your test now. After 13 September, it will not count.

What You Should Do

1. Check which tests are accepted for your specific visa. Not all tests work for all visas.

2. Confirm the score you need. Functional, Vocational, Competent, Proficient, Superior. Each level has different score requirements.

3. Book early. Test centres fill up. Do not leave it until the last minute.

4. Avoid online-only tests. They will not be accepted. Make sure your test is at an approved centre.

Why This Matters

I have seen visa applications delayed or refused because someone took the wrong test. Or took it too late. Or did not realise their online test would not count. These are avoidable mistakes. But only if you know the rules before you book.

If you are not sure which test to take or whether your existing results are still valid, book a consultation. Let us check before you waste time and money on the wrong test.