Important Update: English Test Score Requirements for 485 Visa Changed from 7 August 2025

Note: The below mentioned information is for general information only. It does not constitute legal advice. If you are looking for legal advice, please book an appointment with our registered migration agents.

If you’re applying for the Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) visa, there has been an important update to the English language test score requirements starting from 7 August 2025.

These changes may benefit you—especially if you’re yet to take your English test. But the new rules depend on when you took your test, so it's important to understand how it applies to your situation.

What Has Changed?

The Australian Government has introduced lower English test score requirements for applicants who take their test on or after 7 August 2025.

However, if your test was taken before this date, you must still meet the older, higher score requirements.

Which Scores Apply to You?

When You Took the Test	Score Requirement
Before 7 August 2025	Higher scores apply (previous requirement)
On or after 7 August 2025	Lower scores apply (new requirement)

Note: The test must have been taken within 12 months before lodging your visa application. The results must be from a single test sitting (unless using OET).

PTE Academic – Score Comparison

English Skill	New Requirement (on or after 7 Aug 2025)	Old Requirement (before 7 Aug 2025)
Overall Score	55	57
Listening	40	43
Reading	42	48
Writing	41	51
Speaking	39	42

If you're using a different English test (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), similar rules apply—the scores have generally been lowered in the new version for most tests.

What You Should Do

• Already taken your test before 7 August 2025?Make sure your scores meet the older, higher thresholds.

• Planning to take the test now or soon? Consider taking it after 7 August 2025 to benefit from the new, more flexible scoring.

Final Reminders

• Your English test result must be less than 12 months old at the time of your 485 visa application.

• All components (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) must be completed in one sitting (unless you use the OET).

• Only certain tests are accepted (e.g., PTE Academic, IELTS Academic/General, TOEFL iBT, OET, etc.).

Need Help?

If you're unsure whether your test scores are valid or whether to re-take your English test, get in touch with our team. We can review your scores and guide you on the best next step based on your visa timeline.