New English tests to be introduced for Australian visa applicants

Visa applicants will have two new English language assessment tests to choose from when applying for temporary graduate, skilled, work and holiday and former resident visas from November 2014.

The Test of English Language as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT) and the Pearson Test of English Academia (PTE Academic) are set to join the list of options from which applicants are able to choose.

Currently, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Occupation English Tests (OETS) are the only English tests accepted for applications for General Skilled Migration and Permanent Employer Sponsored ENS/RSMS visas.

Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Senator Michaelia Cash, said the additions were in line with the Department’s focus on increasing competition for English-language test providers and choice for applicants.

TOEFL (iBT)

The TOEFL (iBT) test is an internet-based English test, with more than 50 test dates available each year from a wide range of locations.

The test takes approximately 4.5 hours to complete, and follows the structure of:

  • Reading (60-80 mins)
  • Listening (120-180 mins)
  • Speaking (20 mins)
  • Writing (50 mins)

Results: Results are made available within 10 days online, and a physical copy is sent approximately 13 days after the test date.

Cost: The cost of the TOEFL iBT is $240.

PTE Academic

The PTE Academic test is a computer-based English test.

The test is conducted within a single 3 hour session, and follows the structure of:

  • Speaking and Writing: (77-93 mins)
  • Reading (32-41 mins)
  • Listening (45-57 mins)

Results: Results are made available via a client login within 5 working days of the test date.

Cost: The cost of the PTE Academic test is $330.


English Assessment Tests Comparison Table

english_equivalency_table

Source: Department of Immigration and Border Protection website

Google Rating
4.7
Based on 235 reviews
×
js_loader
Scroll to Top