Is studying in Australia part of your big plan? One of the key aspects you’ll need to consider is the IELTS band requirement. Whether you’ve just completed 12th grade or are applying for postgraduate studies, understanding the English language proficiency criteria is essential for admission!
While IELTS is a popular English proficiency test, there are other options. Other widely recognised tests include TOEFL, PTE Academic, and Cambridge English exams.
| Did you know? More than 35 Lakh students take IELTS every year. |
Wondering what IELTS band score you need to study in Australia in 2025-26? The answer depends on several factors, including your course, university, and level of study.In this blog, we’ll discuss the IELTS score for Australia in detail! Let’s dive in.
Importance of IELTS Score for Australia
| Factors | Explanation |
|---|---|
| University Admissions | Australian universities require IELTS to demonstrate English proficiency for admissions and scholarships. |
| Visa Requirements | A good IELTS score is necessary for student visas and influences work or residency visa eligibility. |
| Professional Registration | Many professions, like healthcare and law, require an IELTS score for licensing and certification. |
| Language Proficiency for Daily Life | Strong English skills help you adapt to daily life, social interactions, and public services in Australia. |
| Proof of English Proficiency | IELTS is globally recognized, ensuring your language skills are trusted by Australian institutions and employers. |
| Confidence and Preparedness | A good IELTS score boosts confidence and prepares you for academic success in an English-speaking environment. |
What is a Good IELTS Band Requirement for Australia?
As we mentioned, the IELTS Band Requirement varies depending on several factors. This list includes the university you apply to or the course you’re interested in. Here’s an overview:
- Undergraduate programs generally require a minimum overall IELTS score of at least 6.0.
- Postgraduate programs typically require a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5
- The band score must be more than or equal to 5.5 in all four skills for undergraduate programs.
- A certified declaration of this score is accepted in universities and the visa application process.
Below is a module-wise breakdown:
The score requirements for courses like medicine, teaching, and nursing are typically higher because these fields demand a strong command of the English language. These professions require students to understand complex concepts, communicate effectively with patients or students, and interpret detailed information accurately.
The advanced curriculum in these fields requires students to be able to keep up with detailed coursework and participate actively, so higher IELTS scores are required to ensure readiness for top universities.
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The IELTS Band Requirement for Australia: Is Your Score Enough?
IELTS score requirements vary among these institutions according to level and programme of study. Universities set higher IELTS scores for such programs to ensure you are well-prepared for the rigorous academic and practical challenges you will face.
In this way, Australia’s IELTS band requirement serves as a safeguard to ensure that you are equipped to succeed academically and professionally in your chosen fields.
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Minimum IELTS Band Requirement for Australia for Top 10 Universities
When applying to top-tier Australian universities, aspiring students should be aware that minimum IELTS score requirements can be quite competitive.
Generally, the minimum IELTS score for top Australian universities, such as the University of Melbourne, Australian National University (ANU), and the University of Sydney, typically ranges from 6.5 to 7.5, depending on the program.
Graduate courses often demand scores at the higher end of this spectrum, as these universities seek candidates with strong academic abilities and language proficiency to ensure success in rigorous academic environments.
| University | IELTS Requirement: UG Courses | IELTS Requirement: PG Courses |
|---|---|---|
| Australian National University (ANU) | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| University of Sydney | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| University of Melbourne | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| University of New South Wales | 7.0 | 7.0 |
| University of Queensland | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| Monash University | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| University of Adelaide | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| University of Western Australia | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| University of Technology Sydney | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| Victoria University | 6.5 | 7.0 |
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Minimum IELTS Band Requirement for Australia for Other Popular Universities
The minimum IELTS score requirements for popular Australian universities, such as the University of Queensland and Monash University, are generally more flexible.
Typically, these scores range from 6.0 to 7.0. While undergraduate programs may require a minimum of 6.0, postgraduate courses in business or humanities might require a 6.5.
| University | IELTS Band Requirement |
|---|---|
| Torrens University | 6.5 |
| International College of Management, Sydney | 6.0-6.5 |
| CQ University Australia | 6.0 |
| International College of Management, Sydney | 6.0 |
| Charles Darwin University | 6.0 |
| Charles Sturt University | 6.0 |
| University of Canberra | 6.0 |
| Swinburne University of Technology | 6.0 |
You can enrol in some of the best Australian universities with our guidance! Interested in finding out more? Learn more about studying in Australia here.
The Band Requirement for Study Visas in Australia
The minimum English language proficiency level that international students must meet to be eligible for an Australian student visa is 6.0
Students who have completed their education in an English-speaking country or a country recognised by the Australian Education System may be exempt from submitting IELTS scores as long as they have an official acceptance letter from the university.
However, demonstrating English proficiency through a recognised test is still a key requirement for most applicants in the student visa process.
Fortunately, introducing options like IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) offers greater flexibility, allowing students to improve specific scores in individual sections of the test.
Is IELTS One Skill Retake Accepted in Australia?
IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR) is now available and accepted in Australia, providing greater ease for test-takers. IELTS OSR means that you can retake the test for one skill, Reading, Speaking, Writing, or Listening, within 60 days of the original test. It is available throughout India in all computer-delivered IELTS test centres.
The key benefits of IELTS OSR are
- Need not take the entire exam
- Much more affordable
- Focus more on one skill
- Same format as the original test
- Scope to improve your test report.
This simplified approach not only helps applicants meet visa requirements but also enhances their chances of securing admission into competitive programs. Students can submit their IELTS results to the universities of their choice as part of the application process once they have attained the required scores.
How do you send your IELTS Score to Australian Universities?
If you take the IELTS exam, you can submit your results to up to 5 universities in Australia. You can choose your preferred universities at the time of registration. An additional Test Report Form will require you INR 250 per university.
Here are the steps that you can follow to register for IELTS and how to send IELTS score to Australian universities after the test:
- Visit the website of the British Council.
- Click on the ‘Take an exam’ and ‘IELTS’ options.
- On the right-hand side, click on ‘IELTS registration.
- Click on ‘Register for IELTS” now.
- You will find the test dates after filling in all the required details. Then, on the next page, you will see the test date availability.
- You can choose from the available dates and click on ‘Apply’.
- Read the terms carefully, mark them in the text box next, and click ‘Continue’.
- You will be asked to complete your personal details on the next page.
- At last, you will find an option to send your IELTS scores to other institutions.
- Click ‘Yes’ to send your result.
- Click on ‘Continue’ once you fill out the correct details.
- On the next page, you will specify the Australian universities to which you want to send your Australia IELTS scores.
After completion of the test, The test centre will send copies of your IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) free of cost to the top five universities you’ve selected after completing the form.
Depending on the mode of test taken, your IELTS results are announced within 2 – 13 days of your test date. These test reports can further be collected from the IDP office. When collecting the report, make sure that you have all the documents that were used at the time of registration.
In Australia, universities have specific IELTS band score requirements. You are advised to retake the test if your score falls below the required criteria. For more detailed information concerning your specific program’s band requirement, feel free to contact us.
Conclusion
The majority of Australian universities accept IELTS scores between 6 and 6.5. However, you must obtain a score of at least 7 to be considered to get admitted into top universities in Australia. Feel free to contact us with any questions regarding the universities, course structure, eligibility requirements, and whatnot.
We have experts ready to spend time with you and help you prepare for IELTS. Packed with the latest updates, we offer advanced IELTS preparation classes to ensure you ace the exam. These courses are designed and taught by India’s top IELTS trainers through live online classes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. How many times can the IELTS exam be taken?
Ans. There are no restrictions on how many times a candidate may attempt the exam, which is held several times a year. You can retake the IELTS test as many times as you wish if you are not satisfied with your previous score or if you need to achieve a higher score for your specific purposes, such as university admissions or visa applications.
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Q. How much band is required for Australia?
Ans. Universities in Australia typically require students to have an IELTS score of 6.5 and a minimum of 5.5 in all individual sections. For undergraduate degree courses, it would be best to have a minimum overall score of 6.0.
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Q. What is the IELTS Australia score validity?
Ans. The IELTS exam score is valid for up to two years after the results are announced. Similar to other countries, IELTS scores are generally valid for two years from the test date in Australia. Your test score will remain valid for university admissions, visa applications, or other purposes in Australia for two years from that test date.
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Q. How much does it cost to take IELTS in India for Australia?
Ans. If you plan to go to Australia from India, you can take the test in one of IELTS IDP India’s test centres. The cost of IELTS in India is INR 17,000 for both Academic and General versions of the test. You can register for the test via IELTS IDP India’s website.
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Q. What qualifications must one meet to obtain an Australian student visa?
Ans. According to the new rules, you will need a 6.0 band score to qualify for an Australian student visa. You must meet the minimum academic requirements for the course you have been accepted into. This may include meeting specific educational prerequisites or providing evidence of prior academic achievements.
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Q. Can I study in Australia without taking the IELTS Australia exam?
Ans. The direct answer is a clear yes, but only in specific cases. To apply to top universities in Australia without IELTS scores, students must have completed their education in a country whose certificates are recognised by the Australian Education System.
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Q. Is 7.5 a good IELTS score for Australia?
Ans. Yes. 7.5 is a good IELTS score for Australia. With this score, you can stand out in a sea of applications. Most top universities accept a score of 7 and above in IELTS. This score is guaranteed to get you into some of the most competitive courses in the world, such as Journalism, Psychology, mathematics and more.
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Q. Is 5.5 IELTS accepted in Australia?
Ans. Yes. A 5.5 IELTS score is accepted in Australia, but there are very few universities that accept this score. Top universities typically require a score of at least 6.5 for admissions. You must also keep in mind that a great academic history and a good portfolio must support a 5.5 IELTS score. You must also have studies in English medium.
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Q. Is IELTS required for Australia PR?
Ans. Yes. An Australian PR requires an IELTS score as proof of your English proficiency. Your IELTS score is just one part of the process for getting permanent residency. Other important factors include your work experience and qualifications.
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