Australia is a popular choice for students from all over the world who want to graduate from a top university and earn a globally recognised qualification. From excellent courses to welcoming communities and a fun student lifestyle, there are plenty of reasons for international students to apply to study in Australia.
If Australian student life is on your list of goals, you will need to take an IELTS test to meet visa and university application requirements. The International English Language Testing System, also known as IELTS, is the world’s most trusted English test taken by millions of people every year.
Why IELTS for Australia?
IELTS is accepted by universities and institutions across Australia, making it the ideal English language test to meet requirements. Depending on whether you plan to work or study in Australia, you can take IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training. Confirm with the institution you have applied to study at which test you should take.
IELTS tests your skills in English Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. When you share your IELTS results with universities, they will have full confidence in your ability to study in English and thrive at an English-speaking institution.
What are IELTS band score requirements?
A band score is given for each section of the IELTS test and those scores are averaged to produce an overall band score. The highest band score an IELTS test taker can attain is 9, which puts the test taker on an expert skill level, meaning their use of English is appropriate, accurate and fluent and the test taker shows complete understanding.
The minimum band score to be accepted to study an undergraduate degree in Australia is between 6.0 and 6.5 depending on the course you plan to take. A score of 6.0 puts test takers on the competent skill level, meaning the test taker has an effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings. If you plan to study a post-graduate degree at one of Australia’s top 10 universities, the minimum band score is 7. Read more about how IELTS band scores are calculated on the IELTS website and remember to confirm with the institution you plan to apply to what their minimum IELTS band score requirements are.
Preparing for IELTS
Make sure you set aside enough time to study for your IELTS test so you can get the band score you need to meet university requirements and achieve your goals. When you take IELTS with the British Council, you can access our most comprehensive IELTS preparation course, worth $60, for free. IELTS Ready Premium was developed by experts to help test takers get their desired band scores. The course includes tools to create a personalised study plan, interactive exercises, tutorial videos, practice tests for every section of IELTS and feedback on your progress.
What if you don’t meet the minimum band score requirements?
Be sure to book IELTS on Computer so you can access One Skill Retake. If you need to improve your IELTS score in one section, you can retake just that section without taking the entire test again. One Skill Retake is accepted in Australia, as long as you retake the relevant sections within 60 days of your original test.
Register for IELTS today and get support in your journey from the British Council. No one prepares you for the future like we do!