English proficiency is compulsory for all skilled migration applicants. The minimum requirement is Competent English (typically IELTS 6.0 in all four bands or equivalent). Some visa subclasses require Proficient or Superior English.
For employer-sponsored visa subclasses (482, 186), the English requirement can sometimes be waived for applicants from certain countries or in certain occupations, though this does not apply broadly to Indian nationals.The International English Language Testing System is the most widely used test in Australia's immigration context. There are two versions:
Pearson Test of English Academic is increasingly used by Indian applicants, particularly because results are available within 2–5 business days, often sooner (compared to 13 days for IELTS). PTE is a computer-based test conducted at Pearson test centres.
PTE scores are mapped to the IELTS scale for migration purposes. Achieving 65 in each communicative skill equates to Proficient English; 79 in each equates to Superior.Test fee: approximately INR 16,000–17,000.The Occupational English Test is specifically designed for healthcare professionals. Nurses, doctors, and allied health applicants who find the general English tests challenging can use OET, which tests English in a medical context. A minimum score of B in each component is required for Competent English; for some AHPRA registrations, higher scores may be needed.
