407 Visa Ielts Requirements

To demonstrate that you have the required English language proficiency you can undertake one of the English language tests approved by the Department of Home Affairs.

A vital point to note is that your test must be taken within the last 12 months before you apply for the SC 407 visa. To be eligible for the SC 407 you have to have the test score that meets the standard of “Functional English”.

The accepted test scores for Functional English are:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): An average band score of at least 4.5 based on the 4 test components

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based Test): A total band score of at least 32 based on the 4 test components of speaking, reading, writing and listening

If you completed your tests between 26 July 2023 and 4 May 2024, they will not be accepted by the Department as during this period TOEFL iBT was not an approved test.

• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English): A total band score of at least 30 based on the 4 test components

• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): A total band score of at least 147 based on the 4 test components.

From 12 February 2024, only results from the paper-based Cambridge C1 Advanced test (previously known as Cambridge English: Advanced CAE) will be accepted. Test scores for both C1 Advanced paper-based and computer-based tests, taken before 12 February 2024, are still accepted.

All applicants are not required to undertake the English Language proficiency tests. There are some applicants who are exempted from taking the test. You will be exempted from taking the test in the following circumstances

• If you are a passport holder from English speaking countries: If you are citizen of and hold a valid passport from the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Canada, New Zealand or the Republic of Ireland you need not undertake the tests. However British National (Overseas) passports are not acceptable as evidence of functional English.

• Completed your education in English: If you completed a degree, a higher degree, a diploma or a trade certificate in an institution in or outside Australia that required at least two years of full-time study and all instructions were in English, you will not be required to provide evidence for English language proficiency

• Undertook education at particular institutions:

  • A primary school and secondary school in or outside Australia where all instruction was in English: you must have studied all years in primary and at least 3 years of secondary study.

  • A secondary school in or outside Australia where all instruction was in English: you must have at least 5 years of study

  • An institution in Australia where all instruction was in English: you must have studied at least for a year of full time study (or part-time equivalent) towards an award - best to specify type of awards.

You can provide evidence of your English language proficiency at the time of application by attaching the relevant test results along with other documents that may be required. You must ensure that your test is valid and remains valid throughout the visa processing period.