Study in Australia IELTS Requirements: Who is Exempt?

The IELTS certificate is one of the essential documents for studying abroad in Australia. So, what are the study in Australia IELTS requirements? Understanding this will help you plan your studies and exams effectively. 

Study in Australia IELTS requirements: What score do you need?

IELTS score requirements vary depending on the university and program you choose. Overall, the minimum band score required is around 6.0.

High school level

For students planning to study in Australia from high school, an IELTS certificate is usually not required. Instead, schools often conduct their own English proficiency tests, and students must meet the required score before officially enrolling. 

Vocational education

For vocational programs in Australia, the required IELTS score typically ranges from 5.5 to 7.5, depending on the specific field of study and certification level. While it is possible to enroll without IELTS, the admission process can be more complicated. 

Undergraduate programs

Typically, you will need an IELTS score of at least 6.0 to apply for a bachelor’s degree at Australian universities.

However, each university may have its own specific requirements regarding both the overall score and individual section scores. Therefore, international students should carefully check the university’s official website for detailed information and prepare accordingly.

Postgraduate programs

Most Australian universities require an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.5 for master’s and doctoral programs. In particular, specialized fields such as education, healthcare, and law may have higher requirements. 

IELTS exemption criteria for studying in Australia

Not everyone can easily qualify for Australia’s no-IELTS study policy. While high school students are not required to submit an IELTS certificate, they must still pass an English placement test.

For university-level programs, students must meet at least one of the following conditions to be exempt from IELTS: 

1. ✔️ Enrolling in universities listed as Level 1 under the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF) (Updated rankings are released in March and September each year).

1. ✔️ Being a citizen of Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, the UK, or the US.

1. ✔️ Enrolling in specific programs, such as ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), government-registered courses, programs that are not taught in English, and postgraduate research courses.

1. ✔️ Falling into special student categories, including exchange students, diplomatic students, or military trainees.

1. ✔️ Holding an Australian high school diploma (with English as the medium of instruction) obtained within the last two years before applying for university.

1. ✔️ Achieving at least a Certificate IV qualification in the Australian Qualifications Framework (applicable to high school, vocational, and university levels).

1. ✔️ Having completed at least 5 years of education in English in one of the following countries: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, the UK, the US, or South Africa.

➤ Check English requirements using the Document Checklist Tool.

Overall, qualifying for an IELTS exemption is quite challenging. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you obtain an IELTS certificate before applying. This will help avoid complications in the Australia visa approval process and improve your chances of successful enrollment.

IELTS requirements for studying at Australian universities

Below is a summary of the IELTS score requirements for some universities in Australia: 

1. • Australian Catholic University: 6.0
2. • Charles Darwin University: 6.0 
3. • Deakin University: 6.0 
4. • La Trobe University: 6.5
5. • University of Southern Queensland: 6.0 
6. • University of Tasmania: 6.0 
7. • Victoria University: 6.5
8. • Monash University: 6.5
9. • Queensland University of Technology: 6.5
10. • University of Adelaide: 6.5
11. • Charles Sturt University: 6.0
12. • CQ University: 6.0 

Frequently asked questions about study in Australia IELTS requirements

Here are some common questions from international students about English language requirements for studying in Australia.

What English proficiency tests are accepted for studying in Australia?

Australian universities accept a variety of English language tests, including IELTS, TOEFL iBT, CAE, PTE, and OET. Students can choose one of these tests based on their university’s specific requirements. 

Can I study in Australia with an IELTS score of 5.0?

Yes, it is possible. Some Australian schools accept students with an IELTS score of 5.0. However, it is recommended to aim for a higher score to increase your chances of admission to better universities and programs. 

What is the minimum IELTS score for a Master’s degree in Australia?

To pursue a Master’s degree in Australia, you typically need an IELTS score of at least 6.5, with no individual band lower than 6.0.

Key takeaways

What is the study in Australia IELTS requirements? We’ve provided a detailed breakdown of the requirements. Overall, strong English proficiency will not only help you secure admission to your desired university but also make your studies and daily life in Australia much easier. 

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