For many years IELTS has always been the
preferred method of English language test within the Department. However many
applicants may not be aware that there are now other English exams accepted by
the Department:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT);
- Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE);
- Cambridge English: Advanced test (CAE) – This test will only be accepted when complete on or after 1 January 2015.
- Occupational English Test (OTE) – This English exam is specifically designed for 12 Healthcare Professionals. The tests simulate real workplace tasks and test relevant language skills for each profession. These Occupations include:
- Dentistry
- Dietetics
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Occupational Therapy
- Optometry
- Pharmacy
- Physiotherapy
- Podiatry
- Radiography
- Speech Pathology
- Veterinary Science
PTE
has been very popular recently as the structure is easier to follow and it is
often suggested that applicants are able to achieve a better result. It is also
popular for its fast turnover time. The PTE score can be available within five
business days.
As
a handy reminder, the table below sets out the English score required for a 457
visa application for the various tests.
English test
|
Minimum
band score
|
Minimum
scores for English test components
|
|||
Listening
|
Reading
|
Speaking
|
Writing
|
||
IELTS test
|
Overall
band score 5.0
|
4.5
|
4.5
|
4.5
|
4.5
|
OET
|
-
|
B
|
B
|
B
|
B
|
TOEFL iBT
|
Total
band score 36
|
3
|
3
|
12
|
12
|
PTE
|
Overall
band score 36
|
30
|
30
|
30
|
30
|
CAE
|
Overall
band score 154
|
147
|
147
|
147
|
147
|
Remember that the English requirements differ
for permanent visa applications, Please contact us
to discuss the English requirements if you are thinking of applying for a
temporary or permanent visa.
