IELTS - English Language Requirements.

What is IELTS?

 

IELTS is the internationally recognized English Test that is used for Migration Purposes to determine an applicants English ability. There are 2 kinds of tests, the Generic Test which most people complete and the Academic Test.

 

The IELTS test has 4 separate components, Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. Each of these 4 tests is given a rating from 1 to 9 where 9 is the equivalent of a fluent native. These 4 tests are then averaged and an overall IELTS result is provided.

 

Primary applicants for 175/6, 885/6, 485 and 856 Permanent Residence Visas are required to have Competent English. This is a ranking of IELTS 6.0 or higher in all 4 tests.

 

Vocational English requires you to have IETLS 5.0 or higher in all 4 tests.

 

These are the minimum requirements for Visa Applications. Some occupations require applicants to compete the Academic IELTS test in order to get a Skills Assessment rather than the Generic IELTS test, as their occupation requires complex terms or phrases (eg Nurses and Doctors).

 

In order to apply for State Sponsorship or be listed on the Critical Skills List, some occupations require Proficient English - a minimum of IELTS 7.0. (eg Accountants).

 

For some visa applications (General Skills Migration), secondary applicants over 18 (partners) are required to have "functional english" and may be required to sit an IELTS test to show their English skills.

 

Functional English

 

You must provide one of the following:

  • your IELTS TRF Number to show you have a band score of at least four and a half (4.5) based on all four components.
    Important: If you are using an IELTS test to show functional English, it must be from a test sat no more than 12 months before making your application.
  • evidence that you have a degree, diploma or trade qualification requiring at least two (2) years of full time study or training with all instruction conducted in English
  • evidence that you have completed at least one (1) year of full time study in Australia towards a degree or diploma qualification with all instruction conducted in English
  • evidence that you have completed one of the following at an educational institution where all instruction was conducted in English:
    • your primary education and at least three (3) years of secondary education, or
    • at least five (5) years of secondary education.

 

IELTS Training

 

Many education providers, have preparation courses for IELTS exams to assist people in gaining the results they require.

 

If you are located in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane we suggest that you contact the following providers for assistance.

 

Adult English School. General English, IELTS preparation and business English. Short, intensive, low cost courses and private tuition. Learn Real English in the heart of the city!

 

Personal Tuition and one on one IELTS Preparation is also available and can be obtained in Sydney from Kevin at

 

Adult English School. General English, IELTS preparation and business English. Short, intensive, low cost courses and private tuition. Learn Real English in the heart of the city!

 

IELTS Exam Centres.

 

The main IELTS web site allows you to book exams throughout Australia and find your closest IETLS testing centre. There is often a long wait for IELTS Exam dates and so you should book well in advance. Click here to book your IELTS Exam.