What IELTS Score You Need for Australian Permanent Residency

Competent English: IELTS 6.0 in each component

For most skilled visas (189, 190, 491, and many others), you need at least Competent English. This means:

- Listening: 6.0
- Reading: 6.0
- Writing: 6.0
- Speaking: 6.0

If you score 6.0 in Listening and Reading but only 5.5 in Writing, you do not meet Competent English. You must retake the test or choose a different English test that better suits your strengths. Competent English is a visa requirement but does not earn points toward your skilled migration points test — it is the baseline.

Proficient English: IELTS 7.0 in each component

If you score 7.0 in all four components, you meet Proficient English. This earns 10 points toward your skilled migration application (SkillSelect).

- Listening: 7.0
- Reading: 7.0
- Writing: 7.0
- Speaking: 7.0

Many skilled migration applicants target Proficient English because the 10-point boost can make the difference in a competitive application.

Superior English: IELTS 8.0 in each component

Superior English requires:

- Listening: 8.0
- Reading: 8.0
- Writing: 8.0
- Speaking: 8.0

This band earns 20 points, doubling the Proficient score. Very few applicants achieve Superior across all four components; it is not required for any skilled visa, but the points are valuable in the points-based selection system.

Why each component matters separately

IELTS scores you individually in each skill, so you might be stronger in one area than another. If you score 8.0 in Reading but 6.0 in Speaking, your Speaking band determines your overall English level for visa purposes. You must meet the threshold in all four components.

Timing and validity

IELTS results are valid for up to 3 years from the test date. If your test was taken between 7 August 2022 and 6 August 2025, results are still accepted until 6 August 2028 under a transition arrangement. Tests taken on or after 7 August 2025 must be from a secure, in-person test centre; online versions (IELTS Online) are no longer accepted for visa purposes.

Can I get Proficient English if I score 7.0 in three components and 6.5 in one?

No. You must score 7.0 in all four components (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) to meet Proficient English. A score of 6.5 in any component means your English level is Competent (6.0), not Proficient.

How many times can I retake IELTS if I don't meet my target band?

You can retake IELTS as many times as you need. There is no limit on retakes, but each test costs money and takes time. Many applicants retake to improve one weak component.

Do I need 8.0 in all four components to get 20 points?

Yes. Superior English requires 8.0 in all four components. If you score 8.0 in Reading and Speaking but 7.5 in Writing, you meet Proficient English (10 points), not Superior.

What happens if my IELTS expires before I lodge my visa application?

You must retake the test. Visa applications require current English language evidence (generally valid for up to 3 years). Check the Home Affairs website for the specific English language requirement of your visa subclass.

Is IELTS the only English test accepted for Australian PR?

No. Home Affairs accepts IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, OET, Cambridge C1 Advanced, CELPIP General, LanguageCert Academic, and MET (Michigan English Test), all taken at a secure, in-person test centre.