English for Immigration Purposes

Zhanna Heenan

Visa News
English Language Visa Requirements Did you know that that as part of your application the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) may require you to demonstrate a particular level of your English abilities and skills that will be taken into account when your visa application is considered? You may also be required to provide evidence of your English ability to meet your study course entry requirements to an Australian university or for your professional registration.

English Language Testing System (IELTS)

In Australia, IELTS is the most popular choice of English test for students, workers and migrants. IELTS is designed by experts to fairly assess the language abilities (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking) of candidates who plan to study or work in an English-speaking country.

The DIBP accepts IELTS results as evidence of your English language ability. All tertiary institutions, employers and professional bodies in Australia will also accept IELTS results. The requirements for your IELTS results will range depending on the type of visa you wish to apply for and/or the organisation where you plan to study or work. Not all visas will require you to demonstrate your English ability.

Please note that the Migration law can change from time to time and it is important to be up to date with your visa requirements in order to maximize your chances of a successful visa outcome. If you are not sure whether you need to provide language evidence with your application, contact us. Our professional team of experienced migration agents will provide you with accurate and timely advice on the latest English language requirements for your visa type, educational institution or professional registration.

Where and How to sit an IELTS test

  • If you are in Australia

In Australia, the IELTS test is conveniently offered at nearly 50 locations around the country, including many university campuses across Australia. You can take an IELTS test in each state’s capital city and many regional cities in Australia, with test dates available up to a year in advance. To find the dates and locations of IELTS test in Australia see the following:

  • If you are overseas

IELTS tests are offered worldwide and are run up to four times a month. Click here to find your nearest test centre. The test centres are managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia or by independent organisations that are required to meet strict standards of quality, security and customer service.

Given the popularity of IELTS test, booking the test in advance can save you a lot of time and worry. To register for your test Click here.

Generally, results are available 13 calendar days after the test. Official IELTS test centres can send Test Report Forms directly to your organisation or institution (provided it has been nominated), either by mail or electronically. Read more.

Preparation is the key to your IELTS success

To be successful in your IELTS test, it is important to familiarize yourself with the format of the test and build on your communication skills. Even the most proficient English users who are not familiar with the test format have found an IELTS test to be a very daunting experience!  To view great free online resources to help you improve your language skills and access more in-depth information about the test click here . You will be able to find more information on the official IELTS website.

If you have no luck with IELTS or it is not available in your country, there may be an alternative

IELTS is not for everybody!  Some test takers find it extremely difficult and some countries do not have IELTS centres. If you are one of those people, you might want to try an alternative test. The DIBP may also accept the following English test. Read More:

  • Occupational English Test (OET).

OET is an international English language test that assesses the language communication skills of healthcare professionals who seek to register and practise in an English-speaking environment. Read more.

  • Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT)

The TOEFL iBT test measures your ability to use and understand English at the university level. And it evaluates how well you combine your listening, reading, speaking and writing skills to perform academic tasks. Read more.

  • Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic.

PTE Academic assesses listening, reading, speaking and writing all via computer in a single 3 hour test session. There are twenty different question formats, ranging from multiple choice through to essay writing and interpreting information. Read more.

  • Cambridge English: Advanced(CAE) test (also known as Certificate in Advanced English) (CAE) test (also known as Certificate in Advanced English).

The in-depth, high-level qualification that shows you have the language skills that employers and universities are looking for.

Read more.

Heenan & Browne Visa and Migration Services has significant experience with the English requirements and the alternative English language tests accepted by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. Please contact our office to discuss your options

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