If you’re looking to gain experience as a student or professional in the warm and welcoming country of Australia, it helps to understand the visa requirements. Use the tips below as part of your plan to apply for a visa so you can study or work abroad.
When to apply
An IELTS test will be part of your visa application requirements. The International English Language Testing System is the most trusted test of its kind in the world and organisations across Australia accept IELTS from students and professionals.
You can book your IELTS test with us in just four calendar days. If you take IELTS on Computer, you can preview your results in 1-5 calendar days.
For students
Visa processing times can vary so be sure to apply well in advance to avoid disappointment. Confirm processing times on the Australian Home Affairs website here.
For professionals
A job offer needs to be secured in order to apply for a skilled worker visa. Visit the Australian home affairs website to confirm which kind of visa you will apply for and to see the most up to date processing times.
IELTS band score requirements
Make sure you are well prepared to succeed in your IELTS test and get the band score you need. Your English Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking skills will be assessed. You can prepare with free material when you book your IELTS test with us – IELTS Ready Premium is our most comprehensive preparation course!
For students
The minimum IELTS band score for most undergraduate courses in Australian universities is 6.5. A score of 7 means your English skill level is good while a score of 6 means your English skill level is competent. For post graduate courses, an IELTS band score of 7 is required. Read more about what different IELTS scores mean here.
For professionals
An IELTS band score of 6 is required for most skilled worker visas, aside from the temporary skill shortage visa where the minimum band score requirement is 5. Read more here.
Be sure to confirm with the specific institution you have applied to work at what their IELTS band score requirements are before you take the IELTS test.
Application documents
Start by getting in touch with the Australian Department of Home Affairs so you can confirm the visa checklist on their website is up to date and use it to ensure you don’t miss anything.
Your IELTS Test Report Form is one of the most important documents you will need to apply for your Australian visa. When you take IELTS with us, we can send up to five copies of your Test Report Form to institutions like immigration authorities. Other documents you will be required to present include a confirmation of enrolment or employment letter and a valid passport.
Understanding your visa
Once you have your visa, make sure you understand exactly how you can use it and how long it is valid for. Most visas allow students and skilled workers to travel in and out of Australia, so visiting home or seeing new countries will not be a problem. You can also complete a helpful survey on the Australia Home Affairs website to find out which visa you should apply for – access it here.
When you take IELTS so you can apply for an experience abroad, preparing for the test can help boost your confidence before you arrive in Australia. Book your IELTS test today – no one prepares you for the future like we do!