English Test Score Comparison: New vs Previous Thresholds

Skilled migrants need to meet specific English language requirements when applying for Australian visas. From 7 August 2025, updated test options and component scores come into effect under a new Migration Instrument 2025, replacing the 2015 thresholds. Below, we analyse what’s changed—and what hasn’t—for Vocational, Competent, Proficient and Superior English levels, so you can plan your pathway with confidence.

Key Takeaways

• IELTS and Cambridge C1 Advanced thresholds remain unchanged across all levels.

• PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT and OET component scores have been realigned—some eased, some tightened.

• New options (CELPIP General, LANGUAGECERT Academic, MET) join the test suite.

• These changes take effect 7 August 2025—plan your test dates accordingly.

Test	Level	Previous Requirement	New Requirement (from 7 August 2025)
IELTS Academic & GT	Vocational	≥ 5.0 in each component	≥ 5.0 in each component
	Competent	≥ 6.0 in each component	≥ 6.0 in each component
	Proficient	≥ 7.0 in each component	≥ 7.0 in each component
	Superior	≥ 8.0 in each component	≥ 8.0 in each component
PTE Academic	Vocational	≥ 36 in each component	Listening 33, Reading 36, Writing 29, Speaking 24
	Competent	≥ 50 in each component	Listening 47, Reading 48, Writing 51, Speaking 54
	Proficient	≥ 65 in each component	Listening 58, Reading 59, Writing 69, Speaking 76
	Superior	≥ 79 in each component	Listening 69, Reading 70, Writing 85, Speaking 88
TOEFL iBT	Vocational	Listening 4, Reading 4, Writing 14, Speaking 14	Listening 8, Reading 8, Writing 9, Speaking 14
	Competent	Listening 12, Reading 13, Writing 21, Speaking 18	Listening 16, Reading 16, Writing 19, Speaking 19
	Proficient	Listening 24, Reading 24, Writing 27, Speaking 23	Listening 22, Reading 22, Writing 26, Speaking 24
	Superior	Listening 28, Reading 29, Writing 30, Speaking 26	Listening 26, Reading 27, Writing 30, Speaking 28
OET	Vocational	≥ B in each component	Listening 33, Reading 36, Writing 29, Speaking 24
	Competent	≥ B in each component	Listening 56, Reading 55, Writing 57, Speaking 48
	Proficient	≥ B in each component	Listening 61, Reading 63, Writing 74, Speaking 59
	Superior	≥ A in each component	Listening 390, Reading 400*, Writing 420, Speaking 400*
Cambridge C1 Advanced	Vocational	≥ 154 in each component	Not accepted for Vocational
	Competent	≥ 169 in each component	≥ 163 in each component
	Proficient	≥ 185 in each component	≥ 175 in each component
	Superior	≥ 200 in each component	≥ 210 in each component
CELPIP General	Vocational	Not previously accepted	Band 5 in each component
	Competent	Not previously accepted	Band 7 in each component
	Proficient	Not previously accepted	Band 9 in each component
	Superior	Not previously accepted	Band 10 in each component
LANGUAGECERT Academic	Vocational	Not previously accepted	Listening 41, Reading 44, Writing 45, Speaking 54
	Competent	Not previously accepted	Listening 57, Reading 60, Writing 64, Speaking 70
	Proficient	Not previously accepted	Listening 67, Reading 71, Writing 75, Speaking 79
	Superior	Not previously accepted	Listening 75, Reading 78, Writing 82, Speaking 85
MET (Michigan English Test)	Vocational	Not previously accepted	Listening 49, Reading 47, Writing 45, Speaking 38
	Competent	Not previously accepted	Listening 56, Reading 55, Writing 57, Speaking 48
	Proficient	Not previously accepted	Listening 61, Reading 63, Writing 65, Speaking 58
	Superior	Not previously accepted	Listening 75, Reading 79, Writing 80, Speaking 70

*Note: MET and LANGUAGECERT Academic are entirely new additions under the 2025 Instrument—refer to Schedule 2 in the Instrument for full details

What’s Changed—and Why It Matters

1. Component realignment

   • PTE Academic thresholds have been eased for Vocational (down from 36 to 33 in Listening) but tightened progressively at higher levels.

   • TOEFL iBT Listening and Reading jumped from 4 to 8 for Vocational—reflecting a recalibration to the 30-point scale—while Writing was relaxed from 14 to 9.

2. New test options

   • CELPIP General, LANGUAGECERT Academic and the Michigan English Test (MET) now join the suite, offering more pathways to demonstrate English proficiency.

3. Unchanged standards

   • IELTS and Cambridge C1 Advanced component minima remain aligned with the previous instrument, ensuring continuity for test-takers.

These shifts aim to streamline result comparisons across diverse test formats and bring component scores onto common scales—benefiting applicants and decision-makers alike.

FAQs

How do I know which English level I need?

Your visa subclass and pathway determine the required English level. For example, skilled independent visas (subclass 189) typically require Competent English, while many employer-sponsored pathways require at least Vocational or Competent levels. Always check your specific subclass requirements on the Department of Home Affairs site.

Can I use at-home or online tests?

No. Home-edition or online versions (e.g., IELTS Online, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, PTE Online, OET@Home) remain unaccepted for migration purposes. All tests must be taken at secure test centres.

Simplifying Immigration, Connecting Humanity

Note: The information provided in this article is meant for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Although we strive to provide accurate and useful information, the nuances of Australian immigration law demand personalised advice from legal professionals. Given the dynamic nature of migration regulations, it is essential to consult with experienced immigration experts for up-to-date insights tailored to your individual circumstances. We strongly advise seeking professional guidance to navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law effectively and to achieve the most favorable outcomes for your immigration journey.