General information, not migration advice. We explain published test scores. We can't tell you which visa you're eligible for or what you personally need. Requirements change, so always check the Department of Home Affairs website, or speak to a registered migration agent.
Which IELTS do I need?
| Your goal | Which test |
|---|---|
| Australian visa (skilled, partner, graduate and most others) | IELTS General Training or Academic: both are accepted |
| University study | IELTS Academic (check your university's minimum scores) |
| Nursing, medicine and other health registration | Usually IELTS Academic, with high scores in each skill (check your registration board) |
| Professional or skills assessment | Check the assessing authority's rules |
Not sure? Read IELTS Academic vs General Training or take the Which test should I take? quiz.
IELTS scores for Australian visas
Home Affairs sets five English levels. For IELTS, they are:
| English level | IELTS score |
|---|---|
| Functional | 4.5 overall (average of the four skills) |
| Vocational | At least 5 in each skill |
| Competent | At least 6 in each skill |
| Proficient | At least 7 in each skill (10 skilled visa points) |
| Superior | At least 8 in each skill (20 skilled visa points) |
Check your own scores against every level with the free visa score checker, and read the full Visa English guide. Requirements can change, so always confirm on the Home Affairs website before you apply.
IELTS One Skill Retake
If you're happy with three of your scores but missed out in one skill, One Skill Retake lets you resit just that skill instead of the whole test.
- You can book it up to 60 days after your original test.
- You can retake one skill once for each full test.
- It's available if you took IELTS on computer, and for Writing if you took the Writing test on paper.
- IELTS Australia says results arrive within 3 to 5 days, and that One Skill Retake is accepted by Home Affairs for most visa subclasses. Check your specific visa before booking.
Paper or computer?
Both are the same test with the same scores, and both are accepted for visas. The computer test gives results faster and lets you type your writing. The paper test suits people who prefer handwriting. Listening is slightly different: on paper you get 10 minutes at the end to transfer answers, while on computer you type as you listen and get 2 minutes to check. Our free IELTS practice tests follow the computer-delivered format.
How to book IELTS in Australia
- Decide which test you need (Academic or General Training) and whether you want paper or computer.
- Book through the official IELTS Australia website or app. There are more than 40 test centres across Australia.
- Bring the same identification you used to book (usually your passport). The name must match exactly.
- Prepare with full-length timed tests: reading, listening and speaking mock tests, plus writing practice with instant marking.
IELTS or PTE?
Many people in Australia choose between IELTS and PTE Academic. PTE is fully computer-marked, while IELTS Speaking is a face-to-face conversation with an examiner. Compare them in PTE or IELTS: which is right for you? and convert scores with the PTE ↔ IELTS converter.
Official sources
- IELTS Australia: IELTS in Australia
- IELTS Australia: One Skill Retake
- IELTS Australia: who accepts One Skill Retake
- Department of Home Affairs: English language requirements
Checked October 2026. Test rules and visa requirements change, so always check the official websites before you book or apply.
Frequently asked questions
Is IELTS accepted for Australian visas?
Yes. The Department of Home Affairs accepts both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, taken at a test centre on paper or on computer. Check the requirements for your visa subclass on the Home Affairs website.
Is IELTS One Skill Retake accepted in Australia?
IELTS Australia says One Skill Retake is accepted by the Department of Home Affairs for most visa subclasses. Because there are exceptions, check the requirements for your specific visa before booking.
How long is an IELTS score valid for an Australian visa?
For skilled visas, the test generally needs to have been taken within 3 years before you lodge your application. Other visas and organisations set their own rules, so always check.
How much does IELTS cost in Australia?
Fees are set by the test provider and can change, so check the current price on the official IELTS Australia booking page before you book.