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IELTS Band Score Requirement for Studying in Australia in 2024

Updated on 30 September, 2024

Sunita Kadian

Sunita Kadian

IELTS Expert

Aspirants willing to study in Australia usually need to appear for the IELTS examination. A good score in IELTS is a vital part of getting a student visa for Australia. But what is the minimum IELTS score requirement for studying in Australia, the lucky country?

In most cases, the recommended minimum IELTS score for Australia is at least 5.5 in each one of the four bands.Let’s find out the detailed IELTS requirements across different universities and courses.

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Importance of IELTS Score for Australia

All foreign nationals planning to work or study in Australia must have a valid Australian visa. IELTS score for an Australia visa is one of the main prerequisites that one must fulfill. The student must demonstrate their English language skills set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs, educational institution, or employer.

Listed below are the top five reasons why IELTS points for Australia are essential. 

  • Admission to top universities - IELTS scores can help you get admission to the top universities in Australia. The top universities worldwide ask for international students' IELTS scores before admission. The band requirements may vary, and you must check for Australia band requirements before applying.
  • International career - More than 12,000 companies worldwide recognize and trust IELTS results. Some top companies in Australia, such as Ernst and Young, also rely on IELTS scores before hiring international students.
  • Add-on on LinkedIn - IELTS is a recognized partner for English language proficiency tests. Adding your scores to your LinkedIn profile will attract more recruiters and organizations.
  • Global mobility - You will need an IELTS score for Australian PR to settle in Australia. There are many English language tests, but IELTS is the only one recognized by the Australian government.
  • Great opportunities - Your score on IELTS for Australia can open many more opportunities besides studying. An IELTS score is becoming an increasingly common requirement for non-native English speakers working in Australia. Large international organizations and banks frequently require IELTS.

What is Minimum IELTS Score for Studying in Australia

The table below shows the IELTS requirements for Australia based on different study levels:

Study Level Australia IELTS Band Requirement
Undergraduate Bachelor’s Courses - Arts 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
Undergraduate Bachelor’s Courses - Business 6.0
Undergraduate Bachelor’s Courses - Engineering 6.0
Certificates and Diplomas - Arts 5.5 with no band less than 5.0
Certificates and Diplomas - Business 5.5 with no band less than 5.0
Certificates and Diplomas - Engineering 5.5 with no band less than 5.0
Postgraduate Masters Courses - Arts 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
Postgraduate Masters Courses - Business 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
Postgraduate Masters Courses - Engineering 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
Postgraduate Graduate Certificate and Diploma - Arts 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
Postgraduate Graduate Certificate and Diploma - Business 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
Postgraduate Graduate Certificate and Diploma - Engineering 6.5 with no band less than 6.0

Source: University Websites

Please remember that these are only indicative average accepted scores, the minimum accepted IELTS score differs for each Australian university. Aspirants must thoroughly check the website of their preferred universities to know their exact requirements.

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IELTS Score for Australia- Top Universities and Scores Required 

Here’s taking a closer look at the best IELTS score for Australian universities, particularly those falling in the top-tier category. 

Institution’s Name QS World Ranking 2024 Minimum Overall Score: UG Programs Minimum Overall Score: PG Programs
Australian National University 34 6.5 6.5
The University of Melbourne 37 6.5 ( with 6.0 bands in each section) 6.5
The University of Sydney 38 6.5 ( with 6.0 bands in each section) 6.5 (with 6.0 bands in each section)
University of New South Wales 43 6.0 ( with 5.5 bands in each section) 6.0 (with 5.5 bands in each section)
Monash University 58 6.5 (with 6.0 bands in each section) 6.5 (reading: 6.0, listening: 6.0, writing: 6.0, speaking: 6.0)
University of Western Australia 93 6.5 ( with 6.0 bands in each section) 6.5 ( with 6.0 bands in each section)
University of Adelaide 108 6.5 ( with 6.0 bands in each section) 6.5 (with 6.0 bands in each section)
University of Technology Sydney 133 6.5 to 7.5 6.5 to 7.5
The University of Canterbury 258 6.0 (with minimum 5.5 bands in each section) 6.5 (with minimum 6.0 bands in each section)
Central Queensland University 601 to 650 6.0 (with minimum 5.5 bands in each section) 6.5 (with minimum 6.0 bands in each section)
Southern Cross University 751 to 800 7.5 (speaking and listening: 8.0, reading and writing: 7.0) N/A
International College of Management, Sydney N/A 6.0 to 6.5 6.0 to 6.5

On an average, it can be said that 5.5 is the minimum IELTS score for Australian institutions. But this is something that you should check carefully before applying.

There are also a few universities which do not require IELTS scores for admitting overseas students. These include the following: 

  • Macquarie University 
  • UNSW
  • Bond University 
  • University of Southern Queensland
  • University of Queensland
  • Swinburne University of Technology 
  • University of South Australia

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On an average, 5.5 is the minimum IELTS score for Australian institutions and this is something that you should check carefully before applying. There are also a few universities which do not require IELTS scores for admitting overseas students. These include the following: 

  • Macquarie University 
  • UNSW
  • Bond University 
  • University of Southern Queensland
  • University of Queensland
  • Swinburne University of Technology 
  • University of South Australia

 

Minimum IELTS Score for Australia Student Visas

To get an Australia Student Visa, students must fulfill the IELTS band requirement covered in the table below

Minimum IELTS score requirement  Degree
Overall score band of 6 Undergraduate
Overall band of 6.5 with no band less than 6 in each section Postgraduate 

How to Send IELTS Scores to Australian Universities

There are two ways to send your IELTS scores to Australian universities: by post or electronically. If the university demands an original copy of your scores and not photocopies, you can mention the university address on the IELTS test taker portal within two years of taking the test, and the IELTS center will share it directly with them. 

Note: You can send five such copies free of charge from the IELTS center.

Some universities also accept the electronic version of IELTS scores. The IELTS center provides up to ten free e-copies if the university you want to apply to is set up for electronic download.

Alternatively, you can obtain an e-TRF (test report form) via the test taker site if you have already taken the IELTS online. You can also email your e-TRF directly to the universities you are applying to. As long as your eTRF is less than two years old, there is no restriction on how frequently you may perform this.

If the chosen university accepts PDFs, you can share them by following the below steps:

  • Scan and save your form as a PDF.
  • Log in to the university website.
  • Click on the admissions requirements section.
  • Follow the instructions to submit IELTS results.
  • Upload the PDF and submit.
     

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the IELTS band score requirement for Australia in 2024 is crucial for candidates planning to study, work, or migrate there. These requirements, which vary depending on the visa category, educational institution, or professional registration, underscore the importance of English language proficiency in ensuring a successful transition to life in Australia.

As Australia continues to attract global talent and students, the emphasis on clear communication skills becomes increasingly significant. For prospective students and professionals, achieving an equal or higher band than the mentioned IELTS score requirements is not just a regulatory provision but a step towards proving their readiness to thrive in an English-speaking environment. 

Candidates are encouraged to invest time in thorough preparation, leveraging available resources and practice tests to meet the required IELTS scores, thereby enhancing their prospects for a fruitful experience in Australia.

Disclaimer: All the scores are indicative and subject to change at any time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much IELTS score is required for Australia?

If you are an international student applying for undergraduate programs at Australian universities, you need an overall band score of 6 and sectional cut off of 5.5 and above. Whereas, if you are going for a master's program you should score at least overall 6.5 bands with 6.0 band score in each section of IELTS.

What are the bands required for an Australian student visa?

Students applying for an Australian student visa are required to score a minimum 5.5 band in each of the four modules (listening, reading, speaking, writing).

IELTS or PTE? Which exam is better for Australia?

Both IELTS and PTE are the English language proficiency tests a candidate’s familiarity with the English language. Both the tests are globally accepted by universities and approved for Australian student visa and migration applications.

How much IELTS score is required for Australia for masters?

To apply for a masters degree, students need to fulfill the minimum score requirement of overall 6.5 bands with no band less than 6.0 in each section.

What is the passing score for IELTS in Australia?

There is no such passing score of the IELTS exam that students need to take for Australia. For undergraduate programs, students need a minimum score of overall 6 bands. Whereas, for postgraduate programs students need an overall score of 6.5 with 6.0 bands in each section.

How to clear the IELTS exam for Australia?

In order to clear the IELTS exam, students can follow some preparation tips. Some of these tips are :Familiarize yourself with the test format of all four sections; speaking, listening, reading and writing, attempt mock tests, focus on developing reading skills by spending more time reading books, magazines and newspapers, take the help of Youtube tutorials for building good vocabulary, seek coaching, etc.

Is IELTS required for Australia?

Similar to other foreign countries, Australia also requires students to prove their English language proficiency. The International Language Testing system is the widely accepted English language proficiency test in Australia. Therefore, it is an important admission requirement of many  Australian universities.

How many bands are required for an Australian PR?

In order to get a permanent residency in Australia, students need a minimum band score of 6 in all four sections of the IELTS exam.

Are there any Australian universities that exempt IELTS scores?

Yes, there are some universities in Australia that exempt students from IELTS scores. These universities are : Bond University, Macquarie University, The University of New South Wales, The University of Queensland, The University of Adelaide, The Swinburne University of Technology and The University of South Australia.

Why should you study in Australia? Is it a good choice?

Studying in Australia is surely a good decision if you are looking for higher education abroad. Along with its high-ranked and globally-recognized universities, there are many other reasons to study in Australia.

The country has six Australian cities ranked for best student cities per the QS Rankings 2024. Its wide variety of courses, opportunity to work while studying, research opportunities, etc. make it a top choice for study abroad aspirants.

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Sunita Kadian

IELTS Expert

Sunita Kadian, co-founder and Academic Head at Yuno Learning is an expert in IELTS and English communication. With a background in competitive exam preparation (IELTS, GMAT, CAT, TOEFL), interview prep, and corporate soft skills training, she has adapted these programs for the Yuno platform. Her dedication and commitment earned high praise from students, especially for her public speaking and advanced speaking English courses. Sunita's mastery of language nuances and articulation makes her a favorite among IELTS students. She holds a Postgraduate degree in English Literature, a B.Ed., and a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Relations.

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