English tests to study in Australia in 2026: IELTS, PTE and which one you need

One of the first questions when planning your studies in Australia is which English test you need and what score to aim for. The short answer: it depends on the course and the institution. The good news is that there are several accepted tests and, in some cases, you don't even need an official one. Here we explain it all clearly and up to date for 2026.

Why an English test is required

Studying in Australia means doing so in English. That is why institutions —and, in many cases, the Government within the student visa— want to confirm that you have a sufficient level to follow classes, submit assignments and make the most of the course. An official test is the standardised, recognised way of demonstrating that level. Each institution decides which tests it accepts and what minimum score it requires, so there is no single answer for all cases.

Main accepted tests

These are the most common English tests for studying in Australia:

IELTS Academic

The best known worldwide. It assesses listening, reading, writing and speaking, with an in-person speaking section in front of an examiner. It is widely accepted by universities, VET institutes and for migration purposes.

PTE Academic

A 100% computer-based test, with automated marking and fast results (often within a few days). Very popular in Australia and accepted by most institutions and for the student visa.

TOEFL iBT

An internet-based test widely used internationally, especially in university settings. It is also accepted at many Australian institutions, although it is worth confirming case by case.

Cambridge (C1 Advanced / B2 First)

The Cambridge English exams certify your level with a long-validity result. Some schools and programs accept them as proof of English.

OET (Occupational English Test)

Designed for healthcare professionals (nursing, medicine, etc.). It assesses English in clinical contexts and is accepted by certain programs and health-sector registers.

Comparison table of tests

A quick, indicative overview of each test and what it is usually used for:

Test	Format	What it's usually used for
IELTS Academic	In person or computer-based; speaking section with an examiner	University, VET and migration processes. The most recognised.
PTE Academic	100% computer-based; automated marking	University and VET; fast results, widely used in Australia.
TOEFL iBT	Internet-based; all 4 skills	Mostly university settings; accepted at many institutions.
Cambridge (C1/B2)	In person or computer-based; level certificate	Some schools and programs as proof of English.
OET	English in a clinical context; all 4 skills	Health-sector programs and registers.

Indicative table. The acceptance of each test and the minimum score depend on each institution and, where applicable, the Government, and may change. It is worth verifying them before submitting your application.

When you do NOT need an official test

An official English test is not required in every case:

• English courses (ELICOS): many schools place you through their own level test and you start at the level that suits you, without requiring IELTS or PTE.
• Pathways and internal agreements: some programs let you progress to higher courses after completing an English level at the same institution.

If your plan is to start by improving your English, we explain it in detail in studying English in Australia.

What level each type of course usually asks for

As a guide (the exact scores are set by the institutions and the Government and may change):

• English courses (ELICOS): normally no minimum level; you start according to your placement test.
• VET (technical and vocational courses): usually ask for a specific intermediate level with a recognised test.
• Undergraduate university: upper-intermediate level, depending on the university and the program.
• Postgraduate / master's: normally something higher than undergraduate is required.

That is why it is important not to fix a score "from memory": each institution publishes its own requirements and it is worth confirming them for your exact course.

Tips to prepare

• Choose the right test first: confirm which one your institution accepts before enrolling and paying.
• Get familiar with the format: IELTS and PTE assess differently; practise with official mock tests.
• Work on your weak points: writing and speaking are usually the hardest sections to improve.
• Plan dates with margin: leave time to retake the test if needed before enrolling.
• Consider a prior English course if you are not yet at the level: sometimes it is the fastest and most affordable route.

How to know EXACTLY what you need

The only reliable way to know which test and what level you need is to look at your specific case: the course, the institution, your country and your profile. We review it with you, tell you which tests your program accepts, what indicative level you should aim for and, if needed, how to fit in a prior English course. That way you avoid paying for a test that doesn't help you or submitting an insufficient score.

How we help you (and why with us)

• 🏢 Our own office in Melbourne and our own staff who support you from start to finish.
• 🛡️ Migration assistance provided by a registered migration agent (MARN 2318321).
• 🎯 We tell you which test your institution accepts and what indicative level you need for your course.
• 🤝 We support you on arrival: accommodation, bank account and job search.
• 💬 Close support by video call and WhatsApp. +800 students over the last 8 years.

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