485 Visa English Requirements - What You Need to Know
As of March 21st, Minister for Home Affairs, Claire O’Neil announced a variety of changes for Graduate Visa requirements that reflect the Australian Government’s ‘Migration Strategy’ as released on 11th December last year.
These changes were effective from 23 March 2024. To purposefully elevate competition between graduates and ensure only the most skilled graduates reside temporarily within Australia.
These announcements follow shortly after previous news of the student visa intake being decreased by half to tackle issues of high inflation and a rental crisis. Read our previous post here.
Changes to English Requirements for 485 Visa
For applications lodged from 23 March 2024, the general minimum IELTS score requirement increases from 6.0 to 6.5, with individual component scores (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) also increasing from 5.0 to 5.5.
This test must complete one of the approved English tests within 12 months before applying for the 485 visa. Equivalent increases are observed in other English language tests:
- TOEFL iBT: From a total score of 64 to 83, with increases in all individual components.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): From an overall score of 50 to 57, with respective increases in component scores.
- Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): Overall score requirement increases from 169 to 176, with component scores from 154 to 162.
Increased English Scores
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Old: Overall score of 6.0, minimum of 5.0 in each component (reading, writing, speaking, listening)
New: An overall band score of at least 6.5 with a minimum score of 5.5 for each component (reading, writing, speaking, and listening).
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
Old: An overall band score of at least 169 with a minimum score of 154 for each test component.
New: An overall band score of at least 176 with a minimum score of 162 for each component.
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE)
Old: An overall band score of at least 50, with scores of at least 36 for listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
New: An overall band score of at least 57, with scores of at least 43 for listening, 48 for reading, 42 for speaking, and 51 for writing.
TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test)
Old: A total overall score of at least 64, with scores of at least 4 for listening and reading, and 14 for speaking and writing.
New: A total overall score of at least 83, with scores of at least 7 for listening, 8 for reading, 16 for speaking, and 18 for writing.
*This requirement is waived if you are a citizen and hold a valid passport from the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, or Ireland.
Please also note that holders of Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passports are exempt from these increased requirements, maintaining the former threshold of IELTS 6.0 and component scores of 5.0.
Validity of English Language Proficiency Tests
There has been a significant reduction in the validity of English language proficiency tests as they are now no longer allowed to be used for your application if they are more than 12 months old. This follows a drastic reduction to its previous validity of 3 years.
For applicants that are submitting urgent applications on or after the 23th of March, it is vital that you retake an English test result or otherwise carefully look for alternative visa options.
Changes to the Initial 485 Visa Duration
The duration of the initial 485 visa will be adjusted based on the level of your qualification:
- Bachelor Degree: The visa will be valid for 2 years.
- Masters by Coursework: The visa will also be valid for 2 years.
- Masters by Research: The duration extends to 3 years.
- PhD: Recipients will be eligible for a 3-year visa.
Extensions of post-study work rights, which were previously available under certain conditions, will no longer be offered across the board. These changes standardise the visa lengths and are designed to better align with the nature and duration of studies.
How to Meet 485 Visa English Requirements Without IELTS
For many prospective visa applicants, the default choice for proving English proficiency has been the IELTS test. However, there are multiple alternatives that may be better suited to your individual needs or preferences.
Alternatives to IELTS for Meeting Visa Requirements
Here’s how you can meet the English proficiency requirements without IELTS:
TOEFL iBT:
This test is widely accepted and could be a good option if you're used to American English. For the 485 visa, aim for a total score of at least 83, with minimum scores of 7 in listening, 8 in reading, 16 in speaking, and 18 in writing.
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic:
Known for its fast processing, PTE Academic requires an overall score of 57, with listening at 43, reading at 48, speaking at 42, and writing at 51.
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE):
This test demands an overall score of 176, with no less than 162 in each component.
Occupational English Test (OET):
Ideal for healthcare professionals, this test requires a Grade B in each component.
Preparing for Your 485 Visa Application with PACE
As one of the best migration agents in Sydney, we take the stress out of understanding the Australian migration process and any changes in migration law. As we have more than 15 years' experience, clients trust our professional services as we develop a specific migration pathway plan including meeting the new 485 Visa Requirements.
To inquire about 485 Graduate Visas, or other Visa subclasses you may book an appointment with Syed:
https://booking.setmore.com/scheduleappointment/2d47bcd296b6ee531aa6cf8db7c9ccf8dd36ff99/services/b2d96fd178b7b11ef0f611f93607f3c18e251c42
FAQs on 485 Visa
1. Can I apply for a 485 visa without IELTS?
Yes, you can apply for a 485 visa without taking the IELTS test. There are several alternative English proficiency tests accepted for this visa, including TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE Academic, Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE), and the Occupational English Test (OET).
2. What are the English language requirements for the 485 visa?
As of 23 March 2024, the English language requirements for the 485 visa have increased. Applicants generally need to achieve higher scores across all tests. For instance, the IELTS requires an overall band score of 6.5 with no individual band less than 5.5.
3. What alternative English proficiency tests are accepted for the 485 visa?
The accepted alternative tests include TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE Academic, Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE), and the Occupational English Test (OET). Each of these tests has specific score requirements that must be met.
4. Are there any exemptions to the English language requirements for the 485 visa?
Yes, if you hold a passport from the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, or Ireland, you may be exempt from these requirements. Also, holders of Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passports are subject to different criteria.
5. How recent must my English test results be to apply for the 485 visa?
Your English test results must be no older than one year at the time of your visa application. This ensures that the results accurately reflect your current English language proficiency.
6. Can I include family members in my 485 visa application?
Yes, you can include family members in your 485 visa application. This includes your partner and your or your partner’s dependent children. Additional documentation may be required to prove your relationships.
7. What documents are required for a 485 visa application?
Typical documents required include passport biographical pages, English test results, academic transcripts, Australian study requirement evidence, health insurance, and a police clearance certificate.
8. What is the processing time for a 485 visa?
Processing times vary depending on the visa stream but generally range from a few months to one year. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for the most current processing times.
9. How much does it cost to apply for a 485 visa?
The application cost for a 485 visa varies by stream and whether family members are included. Check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest fee structure.
10. How can I ensure a successful 485 visa application?
To increase the likelihood of a successful application:
- Ensure all documents are complete and accurate.
- Meet all eligibility criteria.
- Prepare thoroughly for the English test.
Consider engaging a professional migration agent for guidance.
For tailored advice and assistance with your 485 visa application, reaching out to a professional student visa agent is highly recommended.