IELTS Australia 2024: Minimum IELTS Scores for Best Australian Universities

English is the primary language of instruction in Australian universities, and a strong command of the language is essential for students to fully understand the course material and participate in class discussions. That’s why universities set the IELTS score requirement to ensure that students have the necessary English language skills to perform well and have a good academic and daily experience in Australia. Getting a minimum IELTS score for Australia will prove you have the required language skills to study or live there.

In addition, having a minimum IELTS band required for Australia also helps universities meet their obligations under the National Code of Practice for Registration Authorities and Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students, which sets standards for the recruitment and management of international students.

Overall, the requirement for an IELTS score for international students to enrol in Australian universities helps to ensure that students have the necessary English language skills for academic success and a positive study experience in Australia.

When preparing for the IELTS to study in Australia, one question always comes to mind: What is a good IELTS Score for Australia? Here is the answer.

Most universities in Australia accept applications with a 6.0 IELTS Band score for undergraduate degrees and a 6.5 IELTS Band score (with no band score of less than 6) for postgraduate degrees. However, this IELTS Australia Score may differ depending on the university or course. For example, the IELTS Australia score may be high for medicine, teaching, and nursing courses. 

Various universities in Australia secured the top ranking in the QS World University Ranking 2024. However, these universities also set the IELTS requirement for Australia. Let’s check the IELTS Scores for Best Australian Universities from the table below.

Note: Depending on the degree level and program, the IELTS score ranges from an overall 6 for bachelor's to 6.5 for master's. However, for certain programs like nursing, counselling, and psychology, an overall 7 band is required in some universities.

Below is the list of popular universities with their band requirement for Australia.

Check the 6.5 minimum IELTS Score for Australia universities from the below table.

Although most of the universities in Australia accept 6.0 or 6.5 IELTS band scores but, some universities accept higher IELTS requirement for Australia. These universities are as follows -

Many of you want to work or get PR in Australia. Do you know that the IELTS band is also required for Australia PR and jobs. Candidates who want to work and wish to get permanent residency in Australia need to prove their English Language proficiency by submitting the minimum IELTS Score.

There are 7 types of visas through which you can work or get PR in Australia. These visas are as follows – 

• Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)

• Skilled Nomination visa (subclass 190)

• Graduate Temporary visa (subclass 485)

• Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489)

• Skilled Regional visa (subclass 887)

• Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 188)

• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)

All these visas use a point-based immigration system. These points will be assigned on the following criteria – 

• Age

• English language proficiency

• Work experience (in and out of Australia)

• Level of education

• Study in Australia

• Specialist education

• Spouse skill points

• Other (nominations, community language accreditation, etc.)

Candidates will need to get at least 65 points to apply for these visas. Below, you will find how many points you will get with your IELTS Band score.  

Candidates who want to get PR but are not appearing in IELTS can still apply for PR through PTE, TOEFL iBT, CAE, or OET Exam.  These are the various language exam score criteria for obtaining permanent residence in Australia.

Below, you can check the Australia band requirements for different types of visas.

When you register for the IELTS Exam, you need to choose 5 universities to which you want to send your IELTS Score directly. The IELTS Authority allows you to send your IELTS results to 5 universities without any extra cost. However, you must pay extra if you want to send your score to more than 5 universities.

The registration procedure for the IELTS exam and submitting your results to Australian universities are as follows.

Step 1 - Go to the British Council's website and select "Take an exam" and "IELTS" from the menu.

Step 2 - Press the "IELTS registration" button on the right. Now, click the "Register for IELTS”.

Step 3 - Fill in the required detail and select the test date on your screen.

Step 4 – Click on the “Apply” link.

Step 5 - Next, you will find the terms and conditions; read them carefully.

Step 6 - Mark the text box that you agree to the T&Cs and click on the “Continue” button.

Step 7 - Fill in the personal details and choose the universities to which you want to send your IELTS Score.

Step 8 - Click on “Yes” then “Continue” after filling in all the required details.

Step 9 - At last, submit the form.

In conclusion, the minimum IELTS Scores for Best Australian Universities in 2024 play a crucial role in ensuring that international students meet the language proficiency standards required for academic success.

Above, we have covered the complete details of the IELTS band requirement for Australia. We hope you are now aware that these scores serve as a benchmark for assessing your ability to communicate effectively in English. Also, you are aware of how much IELTS band is required for Australia. Now, you should start preparing diligently and achieve the minimum IELTS Australia score.

We hope the above information will be helpful for you. If you would like to gain a deeper insight, we encourage you to speak with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). Our counsellors will provide you with guidance throughout your study abroad.

Get help with the application process, SOPs, and filing for a visa. Visit us for one-to-one counselling or avail yourself of free video counselling via our website. We will be happy to help you, so please do not hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or 1800-1230-00011. 

1. What is the purpose of setting a minimum IELTS score for Australian universities?

Australian universities set minimum IELTS scores to ensure international students possess the necessary English language skills to succeed academically and integrate effectively into their academic communities.

2. Are there variations in the minimum IELTS scores required by different Australian universities?

Yes, each university may have its own set of minimum IELTS requirement for Australia based on the academic programs offered and the desired level of English proficiency for admission. Generally, an IELTS Score of 6.0 or 6.5 is accepted by various universities for undergraduate and postgraduate programs, respectively.

3. How can I determine the minimum IELTS scores required by a specific Australian university?

You can usually find this information on the university's official website under the admissions or international students section. Alternatively, you can contact the university's admissions office or MOEC Counsellors for clarification.

4. What happens if I do not meet the minimum IELTS requirements for my desired Australian university?

If you fail to meet the minimum IELTS band requirement for Australia, you may need to consider improving your English language skills through additional language training or by retaking the IELTS exam until you achieve the required scores.

5. Can I apply for a waiver of the minimum IELTS score requirement?

Waivers for the minimum IELTS score requirement are rare and usually granted only under exceptional circumstances. It is advisable to contact the university's admissions office directly to inquire about the possibility of a waiver and the required procedures.

6. Are there any alternatives to the IELTS exam for demonstrating English proficiency?

Some universities may accept alternative English language proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL or Cambridge English exam. However, it is essential to check with the specific university regarding their accepted tests and minimum score requirements.

7. Is there a minimum overall IELTS score requirement, or are there specific score requirements for each section (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)in Australia?

Australian universities may have minimum overall IELTS and minimum score requirements for each section. It is essential to review the university's guidelines carefully to ensure compliance with all criteria.

8. Do Australian universities offer English language support services for international students who may struggle with language proficiency?

Yes, many Australian universities provide English language support services such as language courses, tutoring, and language exchange programs to assist international students in improving their English proficiency.

9. Can I still apply to Australian universities if English is not my first language but I have completed my previous education in English?

Some universities may have different IELTS requirements for students who have completed their studies in English-speaking institutions or countries. So, it is essential to verify each institution's specific requirements.

10. Are there any scholarship opportunities or financial aid options available for international students who excel in their IELTS exams?

Some Australian universities offer scholarships or financial aid programs specifically for international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, including high scores on standardised English proficiency exams such as the IELTS. It is advisable to research and inquire about such opportunities directly with the universities you are interested in attending.