IELTS Scores for Each Australian Migration Visa
IELTS is the most widely used English test for Australian migration visas. IELTS scores are counted per band — all four skills must reach the threshold, not just the overall score.
IELTS scores by English level
| English level | IELTS score per band |
|---|---|
| Competent | 6.0 |
| Proficient | 7.0 |
| Superior | 8.0 |
Four bands: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking.
IELTS scores for visa 482 (TSS)
Common requirement: Competent English — IELTS 6.0 in each band
Important exceptions:
- Visa 482 Short-term stream: some occupations only need IELTS 5.0 or PTE 36 per band
- Citizens of English-speaking countries: may be exempt
- Some Labour Agreements: have their own requirements
IELTS scores for visa 186 (ENS)
Competent English: IELTS 6.0 in each band
This applies to both the Direct Entry Stream and the Temporary Residence Transition Stream of visa 186.
IELTS scores for Skilled Visas (189/190/491)
To lodge an EOI: Competent English (IELTS 6.0)
IELTS points in the EOI (SkillSelect):
- IELTS 6.0–6.5: 0 bonus points
- IELTS 7.0–7.5: +10 points (Proficient)
- IELTS 8.0+: +20 points (Superior)
IELTS Academic vs IELTS General Training
IELTS Academic: Accepted by DHA for all migration visas.
IELTS General Training: Accepted only for certain family visas and specific situations. For visa 482, 186 and skilled visas, DHA usually requires IELTS Academic.
Check the specific requirement of your visa before registering for the test.
Common mistakes about IELTS scores
IELTS Overall 6.5 is not enough if one band is below 6.0: For example: Listening 8.0, Reading 7.5, Writing 5.5, Speaking 7.0 → Overall 7.0 but does not meet Competent English because Writing 5.5 < 6.0.
No combining sittings: You must reach all four bands in one single sitting.
IELTS expiry: DHA usually requires IELTS results within 3 years of the test date. See how long English test results remain valid.