Australian Department of Immigration and citizenship has fixed the English language norms keeping in mind a simple fact that Immigrants who are fluent in the English language will be able to find a job in the Australian economy soon. Not to mention, this will also help the new immigrants in social networking in a distant land. However, poor language skills can be devastating to the likelihood of their career success, even if they qualify through all the necessary requirements of the job.
Skill levels based on the IELTS score
Accordingly, Australia requires all prospective economic migrants to take an IELTS test. Speaking, reading, writing and listening are the four main components of this test, on the basis of which, the language skills of the applicants is evaluated. To be eligible to apply for one of the permanent General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa categories, the main applicant must have ‘competent’ English or ‘vocational’ English, if they nominate for a skilled trade occupation.
The Australian immigration regulations identify seven English skill levels after assessing the fluency and competence of the applicant in the Queen’s language under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas:
1. Proficient English – Applicants who score a minimum of 7 points in their IELTS test score in each of the 4 components of the test are honoured to be included in this skill level, which is the highest in the test score. The applicant of this level are awarded 25 points in the GSM points test.
2. Competent English – Applicant of this level are the ones who have an IELTS test score of at least 6 points on each of the 4 components of the test. They are granted 15 points in the GSM points test.
3. Concessional Competent English – This level comprise in the applicants with the average band score of 5.5 in their IELTS score. The applicant is given 15 points in the GSM points test, if they have applied for the Skilled – Regional Sponsored visa and has paid a fee to attend English language tuition in a participating State or Territory.
4. “Vocational” or “Better than functional” English – Applicants with an IELTS score of at least 5 points in each of the 4 components of the test are included in this level. The applicant gets 15 points in the GSM points test, if they nominate for a skilled trade occupation. This is the minimum English requirement for Skilled sponsored applicants and a requirement for the Employer nomination scheme.
5. Functional English – Applicants who obtain an IELTS average band score of at least 4.5 points is listed under this skill level. These applicants do not get any points in the GSM points test.
6. Limited English – An IELTS average band score of at least 4 based on the 4 test components causes the applicant to be included under this skill level and not get any points benefit in the GSM points test.
7. No English – Applicants listed in this level usually have very limited understanding of English language skills. These applicants are not given any points in the GSM points test.
An IELTS report is normally valid for two years only and the Australian Immigration regulations require that the applicants undergo a fresh test if his earlier test report has expired and is more than two years old.
It is important to note that some occupations have minimum prescribed IELTS score requirements and applicants must obtain that minimum score to be eligible to apply for visa for such a nominated occupation. Two of such most common occupations are Engineers and teachers.
While Engineers need to have a minimum band of 6 in each of the IELTS testing modules in general training test, the minimum requirement for teachers is a band of 7 in each of the IELTS testing modules in Academic training test. These two occupations also require the applicant to appear in and provide the IELTS result as a part of the immigration assessment process.
Visa Application Charge
Anyone who is 18 years or above and have less than ‘functional’ English and applied under the below mentioned visa classes, is required to pay a second instalment and any other charge due, before they are granted a visa. The visa officer will tell you when and how to pay.
– Skilled – Independent
– Skilled – Sponsored
– Skilled – Regional Sponsored
– Business skills
– Employer nomination (excluding religious workers)
– Labour agreement (excluding religious workers)
– Distinguished talent
– Former resident
– Former citizen
– Family of New Zealand citizen
It is thereby strongly recommended that the applicant take preparatory classes before appearing in an IELTS test.
Summary: IELTS test is an integral part of the Immigration process under the Australia General Skilled Migration Visa. This test is required for the principal applicant as well as spouse and adult dependents above 18 years of age, unless you are lucky to be included in the category of people who are exempted to appear for the IELTS test.
For More Information, Visit : http://www.abhinav.com/
432 comments
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pratibha patel
June 8, 2013 at 1:56 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
my son n law is an MBA in retailing has 7 yrs of work experience and wants to migrate to australia so lease advise
gaurav
June 7, 2013 at 8:38 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I have registered myself for IELTS academic module.So my question is that Being a chef can i apply for PR for Australia with my academic result?
jareena
June 7, 2013 at 5:09 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
HI,
My husband got reading-8,writing-6.5,listening-7.5 and speaking 7.5 for ielts and he has more than 10 years of
experience in mechanical engineer.We are planning to apply for australian pr.Wil you olease suggest me whether we can go ahead with this points,or shall he has to reappear for ielts ?
sanam
June 7, 2013 at 7:33 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Jareena,
Kindly send us his detailed resume at sanam@abhinav.com and we shall advice you accordingly.
Vimal
May 30, 2013 at 6:14 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hello Sir,
My Wife is the Primary applicant because she works for a reputed company and i will be her dependent.
So i was wondering IELTS is mandatory for me or i can just submit my docs alone???
Some ppl say both should take IELTS test / only primary applicant needs to take the test.
Please advice me on this ASAP.
Thanks in advice
Vimal.
sanam
June 7, 2013 at 7:18 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Vimal,
Both applicants need to appear for IELTS. There are alternates available if spouse do not wish to appear for IELTS. For further information/clarification you can write us at sanam@abhinav.com with detailed resumes of self and spouse.
Ganesh
May 29, 2013 at 5:08 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi,
I have Reading – 7.5, Writing 7.0, Speaking 7.5 and reading – 6.0
Can I go for Skilled PR ?? I am close to 20 years overall IT experience, PG engineer..
Quick response is much appreciated.
sanam
June 7, 2013 at 7:04 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Ganesh,
Kindly send us your resume at sanam@abhinav.com and we shall guide you.
pss
May 28, 2013 at 1:46 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi,
My husband has got 6.5 in writing 6.5 in listening and 6 each in other two modules in GT IELTS.We are trying for an Engineer PR visa to Australia.Is he eligible to apply this kind of PR with the IELTS score he earned.Please advise urgently.
sanam
June 7, 2013 at 7:31 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi,
Minimum score of 6.0 in each of the four modules is fine if you are scoring 60 points without IELTS,
Kindly send us detailed resume of self and spouse at sanam@abhinav.com and we shall advice you further.
pradeep
May 21, 2013 at 6:13 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I got 5 band in IELTS general, and I have 2 year experience in an Automobile company. can I get immiration visa to work in Australia.
dr.sumrrita
May 14, 2013 at 10:08 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
i am a dentist.got 7.5 in listening 6.5 in reading and speaking 6 in writing. am i eligeble for pr of australia
Shihan
April 25, 2013 at 2:03 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi there,
My IELTS results are Listening and Speaking both are 6 while other two which are Writing and Reading both scores are 5.5. My question is am I meet minimum requirements to immigration to Australia ?
sanam
April 25, 2013 at 4:53 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Shihan,
If you are not claiming points for your English Language skills, then minimum 6 in each band is a requirement.
John Anastacio
April 19, 2013 at 7:06 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Good day! My name is John and i am working here in SaudiArabia as a nurse for two years now. I am planning to take IELTS exam but i am a bit confused which one should i take if it is either Academic or General Training, i want to take an employment opportunity or immigration as well if giving any chances. I hope you can help me regarding with my inquiry! Thank you
sanam
April 21, 2013 at 5:34 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear John,
Academic IELTS is required in case of Nurses.
Deepak Srinivasan
April 19, 2013 at 4:38 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi, I am currently working in Australia under 457 Visa and i have 70points excluding IELTS.
Recently i have taken the IELTS GT and scored L=6.5; R=5.5; W=6; S=6. My question is, Do i need to score 6 on each band even if i have 70points…? Please suggest. Thanks. – Deepak .
sanam
April 21, 2013 at 5:35 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Deepak,
Yes, it should be minimum 6 in each module.
imran
April 17, 2013 at 7:31 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear sir can you told me how many points need for applly the Australian immigration. I have 14 years experince in united arab emirates. i know english speaking and writteing .
sanam
April 21, 2013 at 5:38 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Imran,
To apply for Immigration to Australia one need to meet the requirement of minimum 60 points.
AFTAB AHMAD
April 10, 2013 at 1:02 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi !
I have over 8 years experience in Telecom /IT and presently working in British Telecom Based System(FOS) as a system controller with MSc-IT degrees ; D-O-B:20-12-1980; My wife also working in the bank and having over 5 years experience,
Please advice me how much minimum IELTS score required to process my application for australia immigration and in which category ,my application can be processed?till now i have not been appeared in IELTS exam.
your instant reply will be highly appreciable.
thanks
Aftab Ahmad
Hasnain
April 2, 2013 at 6:43 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Which IELTS is required for Aus Immigration Academic or general?
Thanks.
sanam
April 11, 2013 at 6:17 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Hasnain,
Academic or General depends upon an occupation.
Kindly send us your resume at sanam@abhinav.com and we shall advice you accordingly.
Ryan
March 21, 2013 at 11:59 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Sir,
I got 7.0 in Reading, Listening and Speaking but only 5.5 in Writing. Do you think I can still apply for a skilled independent visa for Australia?
sanam
March 23, 2013 at 5:30 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Ryan,
If you are not able to score 60 points then you need to score at least 7 in each module to claim 10 points for English Language skills.
danu
March 5, 2013 at 7:39 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
i got through the skill assessment in visa sub class 190..but ielts 6 any chance me to forward the application with this score?or any optional way of appling?i have applied under senior logistic manager
sanam
March 16, 2013 at 7:24 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Danu,
if you are not able to score 60 points then you need to score at least 7 in each module to claim 10 points for English Language skills.
You can send us your profile at sanam@abhinav.com for appropriate advise on the same.
ashwini
February 19, 2013 at 3:42 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi, We are working on Australian visa processing.My husband is the primary applicant, he is a Soft Ware Eng, I am a Dietitian with 8+yrs of experience and i am in the dependent category.Now my doubt is whether i need to do IELTS, if yes Academic or General and what band should i take. I have plans to work after going to Asutralia.
Parmeet
February 16, 2013 at 9:17 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
My Ielts score is listening 8,writing 7,speaking 7.5,n reading 6.5.i want to apply for Australia PR in skilled category.i m teacher by profession with 7. Years of experience.please advice i am eligible or not .
sanam
February 19, 2013 at 7:33 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Parmeet,
You need to score at least 7.0 for Reading and Writing; and 8.0 for Speaking and Listening (Academic IELTS).
We wish you best for your future endeavors..!!
ashwini
February 15, 2013 at 8:52 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi, We are working on Australian visa processing.My husband is the primary applicant, he is a SoftWareEng, i am a Dietitian with 8=yrs of experience and i am in the dependent category.Now my doubt is whether i need to do IELTS, if yes Academic or General and what band should i take.
sanam
February 19, 2013 at 7:16 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Ashwini,
As a dependent you need to appear for IELTS, Kindly advise if you are claiming points for Partner Skills.
Please write to us at sanam@abhinav.com for further information.
sahar ali
February 5, 2013 at 5:53 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
sir i want to go Australia on immigration visa
i got 4.5 brand can i go
Brijesh
February 5, 2013 at 4:50 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi,
this is brijesh with 8 yrs exp in production / mechanical filed, working in india, married , having a kid of 5 yrs.
am appearing for ielts, is it tuff, pls guide
Amit
January 17, 2013 at 2:41 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I want to go for further study in Australia and my ielts overall score is 6.0
where as particularly my scores are:-
List-6.5
Spek-6.0
Writ-6.0
Read-5.5
So, can i apply for the student visa or i need more score in ielts or the visa
Thanks
Warm Regards
sanam
January 30, 2013 at 1:44 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Amit,
We are an Immigration Consultant and do not offer services for student visas.
vimal brahmbhatt
December 25, 2012 at 10:04 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I have scorred L 5.5, R 5.0, W 6.0, S 6.0
I want to go australia.
Am i eligible ?
padmaja reddy
December 24, 2012 at 6:20 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
hi my ielts score is overall 5.5. listening 5.5, reading 5, speaking 6, writing 6. and i have 3yrs of work exeperience.shall i apply for mba in australia with ELcourse. plz give me some suggestions
Samuel
December 23, 2012 at 2:42 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I have received IELTS bands as below. Trying to apply for an immigration to AU. Do I get any points at all from my IELTS overall score of band 8?
Listening – 8.5/9
Reading – 9/9
Writing – 6.5/9
Speaking – 8/9
Overall Band – 8/9
Raj
December 21, 2012 at 1:26 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hey there
I have M.S from US in Ag Economics, will be finishing PhD in Ag Policy from US. I have 12 yrs of experience. which category I should apply. (Independent/Regional Sponsored/) . my profession is listed in NOC listing (234111 /234112). I have a cousin (paternal) in Australia can he be sponsorer.
BTW where do i fit in this
What is Skilled – Independent (Migrant) Visa (Subclass 175)
Skilled – Sponsored (Migrant) Visa (Subclass 176)
Skilled – Regional Sponsored (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 475)
The following visas are closed to new applications from 1 January 2013:
Skilled – Sponsored (Residence) Visa (Subclass 886)
Skilled – Independent (Residence) Visa (Subclass 885)
Skilled – Regional Sponsored (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 487)
Also do provide if you consultancy services…….
with regard
Raj
amisha
December 2, 2012 at 2:59 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear sir/madam,
I have worked in mcdonalds restaurant for 4 years and 2 years as a manager, i got L-8.5, R-8.0, W-6.5 and S-6.5
Can i apply for pr ? I am on visa 457.
Please advise. Thank u
shakeel
October 13, 2012 at 12:25 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi This ischance for getting spous visa. amna aslam i have scored 5.5 bands in ilelts plz guide me for applying visa for Australia. and how man and how many chanc get via
awais
October 12, 2012 at 7:38 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
dear sir my ielts score is 3.5 4.0 4.0 5.5 i want to study in australia
sanam
November 9, 2012 at 5:08 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Awais,
We are an Immigration Consultants and do not offer services for Student visas.
Appu Alphons
October 11, 2012 at 6:48 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I am a staff nurse(GNM) having 4.9 years experience, 26 years old.I wish to migrate to Australia.My IELTS score– speaking -6.5, listening- 6.5, writing-6.0, reading-6.5.
My IELTS exam was held on 11th september 2010. Is it enough for the migration. please send an email to me. Thanking you.
Appu Alphons
Raghunandan
October 8, 2012 at 12:19 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi Iam planning to take IELTS,my handwriting is not that much good,is this will be a backlog.I am worrying.
Lohit Yadav
October 8, 2012 at 8:16 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I wrote my IELTS test in the year 2006 and my over all band score was 6.0.With all furnished details, I posted my visa application in 2007. I got my mail for medical in 2008. Unfortunately i did not respond to the mail due to my personal reasons.Hence forth i was sent a second reminder and for which i did not reply too. But as if now i am striving to migrate to Australia. So please kindly suggest me the best and the possible way to get my visa.
Rami
October 8, 2012 at 4:42 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear sir,
My category which i am going to apply is construction manager , as i am working with that title for more than 7 years , my age is 35, and i am civil engineer , in Dubai , married with two kids.
I got IELTS result as: listening:6, writing:6.5,speaking6.5 and reading5.5
is that will be fine as i have a problem with reading.
please advice,
Sriram
September 27, 2012 at 9:31 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi there,
Greetings.
i am interested in Australia immigration. my over all score in IELTS 6 which i appeared in oct 2010. ( L – 6, R – 4 , W – 6.5, S – 6,5 )
please advice whether above IELTS score is enough for my immigration.
Thank you in advance
Sriram
venkat
September 17, 2012 at 11:18 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi, I have scored Reading 7, Listening 8.5, Speaking 6.5, Writing 6.0 and Overall 7.0…..
Which part of Australia can I apply for General Skilled Migrant Visa?
I am sure I can’t apply for NSW, VIC. Can I apply for SA? Please guide me.
sanam
September 27, 2012 at 12:39 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Venkat,
Kindly write us at sanam@abhinav.com with your detailed resume for appropriate advise.
zilhaz
September 16, 2012 at 7:07 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi
This is zilhaz.
I have a 3 years work experience on telecommunication, I will sit for the IELTS exam. for skilled migration to aus should I need to sit for the academic or general training ?
sanam
September 27, 2012 at 1:06 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Zilhaj,
You need to appear for IELTS general.
Adnanyounis
September 11, 2012 at 6:10 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi This is AdnanYounis i have scored 5 bands in ilelts plz guide me for applying visa for Australia. and how many chance for getting visa.
sanam
September 27, 2012 at 1:35 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Dear Adnan,
One need to score minimum 7 points in each module to claim 10 points for language.
You can send us your details at contact@abhinav.com for appropriate advise on Immigration.
nader
September 8, 2012 at 4:10 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
i am electrical engineer at steel company and i have 2 years exp , I am trying for Australian Work visa , Please advice us on visa requirements.
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