Australia Adds 3 New English Language Certifications for Visas
Exciting Changes to English Language Certifications in Australia
If you’re considering moving to Australia for work or study, there’s some great news! The Australian Department of Immigration has recently acknowledged three new English language certifications. This decision is sure to open more opportunities for international job seekers and students keen to settle in Australia.
What’s New?
The new certifications accepted from August 7 include:
- LanguageCert Academic
- Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program General (CELPIP General)
- Michigan English Test (MET)
This expansion brings the total number of recognised tests to nine, including popular options like IELTS, Pearson PTE Academic, Cambridge English, TOEFL iBT, and OET.
Why Is This Important?
These new certifications make it easier for international students and workers to prove their English proficiency, a crucial requirement when applying for study or work visas. Having multiple options can be particularly beneficial for those who may find one test format easier than another.
For prospective students, demonstrating English skills is essential for gaining acceptance into Australian educational institutions. Similarly, workers seeking visa sponsorship will find that these certifications can strengthen their applications, opening up more opportunities in various sectors.
Data Insights
As of May, the number of enrolled international students in Australia reached 816,587, reflecting a 1% increase from the previous year and an 18% rise since 2019, prior to the pandemic. Notably, over half of these students come from five key countries:
- China (23%)
- India (17.1%)
- Nepal (7.9%)
- Vietnam (4.6%)
- Philippines (4.5%)
The enrolment includes students from high schools, universities, vocational training programs, and short-term English courses lasting six to nine months.
Updated PTE Requirements
The Immigration Department has also updated the certification requirements for the PTE (Pearson Test of English). Previously, candidates needed to achieve a uniform score across all skills. Now, specific score benchmarks for different levels of English proficiency have been introduced. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Skill | Old PTE Requirements | New Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Superior English | >= 79 per skill | Listening: 69 Reading: 70 Writing: 85 Speaking: 88 |
| Proficient English | >= 65 per skill | Listening: 58 Reading: 59 Writing: 69 Speaking: 76 |
| Competent English | >= 50 per skill | Listening: 47 Reading: 48 Writing: 51 Speaking: 54 |
| Vocational English | >= 36 per skill | Listening: 33 Reading: 36 Writing: 29 Speaking: 24 |
| Functional English | Total score >= 30 | Average score >= 24 |
This update simplifies the certification process, allowing a more flexible approach for students and workers proving their English abilities.
Looking Ahead
For anyone considering studying or working in Australia, these changes are a welcome development. By broadening the scope of accepted English language certifications, the Australian government is making strides to support international students and workers.
Whether you are looking for short courses, vocational training, or longer university programs, having multiple language proficiency tests to choose from can aid your visa application process and enhance your prospects for success.
What do you think?
Have a question about this topic or your own plans to move to Australia or New Zealand? Scroll down and leave a comment. We’d love to hear from you.
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