In their latest announcement, the government of Australia has issued certain changes in their requirements for visa approval. These changes are about the English language requirements that the country currently has for its immigrants.
These changes regarding language proficiency are a part of Australia’s newly announced Migration Strategy. It aims at improving the employment conditions of the skilled workers immigrating to Australia. So if you want to immigrate to Australia or study in Australia, this article is for you.
These changes are primarily applicable to applicants aiming to issue a student visa that enables them to study in Australia.
Main Features Of The Changes In The English Language Requirements
The main features of the changes in the English language requirements are discussed below:
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The requirement for the Temporary Graduate Visa (TGP) has been increased from a band 6 to 6.5 on the IELTS scale, or equivalent
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Additionally, the score on each test segment should not fall below 5.5 on the IELTS scale, or equivalent
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The validity of this test taken by TGP applicants has been reduced to 1 year only. Earlier it was valid for 3 years
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For student visa applicants, the minimum IELTS requirement for a student visa has been increased from 5.5 to 6 on the IELTS scale, or equivalent
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The score for applicants applying for a packaged ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses For Overseas Students) has been increased from 4.5 to 5 on the IELTS scale, or equivalent
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However, for individuals studying English only via ELICOS, there have been no changes
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The requirement in the English language component for VET (Vocational Education and Training) has also been substantially increased
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The requirement in the English language component for college students in foundation or pathway programs at the university level should not be less than 5.5 on the IELTS scale or equivalent
Conclusion
These changes have come into effect on March 23, 2024. Thus, any applicant who has applied for IELTS or attempted IELTS after this date is subject to the new changes put in place by the Australian government regarding their language requirements. These changes aim at improving the selection of foreigners who move to Australia, on grounds of their proficiency in the English language. English is the most commonly spoken language in Australia, so it is important that one is well-versed in it.
However, moving to Australia is not made any more difficult by these changes, so worry not! If you prepare regularly and practice your test material, you are sure to ace the test. IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE are the most widely taken tests to move to Australia. These tests measure your proficiency in English across certain parameters. You will most probably have to take one of these tests as well.
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