Exams Required to Study in Australia
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Exams Required to Study in Australia

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Aishwarya
Aishwarya Bhatnagar
Study Abroad Expert
Updated on Dec 13, 2024 11:32 IST

Students across the globe desire to study in Australia as it is one of the top study-abroad destinations. However, securing admission to one of the top Australian universities would require you to take certain exams and score well. In this article, we will discuss in detail the exams required to study in Australia, minimum score requirements, fee details of these exams, and more.

Exams needed to study in Australia

Prospective applicants choosing to apply to Australian Universities need to demonstrate an adequate level of English language proficiency required to pursue higher studies in Australia. This is also required during the procurement of a student visa. Major test results accepted by the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) for visa purposes are IELTS, TOEFL, CAE and PTE, but for admissions, standardised tests are also equally important. This article focuses majorly on the English language exams along with standardized exams required to study in Australia which is mandatory for submission if applying as an international student. Read on for detailed information.

English Language Tests to Study in Australia

Universities and colleges set their English language requirements for course entry and the score required for entry to a course may defer from the scores required to secure a visa. However, IELTS is the most commonly accepted English language test in Australia and it is the main test for students seeking enrolment in an Australian Institution. (Students should check the entry requirements of their desired institution). Below is an overview of the various tests accepted by the Department of Education, Australian Govt.

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International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

The IELTS Australia test is conducted in more than 35 countries. British Council, IDP, jointly manages IELTS: IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL). It is conducted through over 800 test centres and locations in over 130 countries.








Read more about: IELTS registration

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

TOEFL scores are accepted for both admission and visa procurement. It is one of the most accepted and most respected tests among universities, agencies and other institutions all around the world. TOEFL test content is 100% academic. The TOEFL iBTTM is given 30-40 times a year, at thousands of secure, Internet-based test sites around the globe. Whereas, the TOEFL Paper-based Test (or TOEFL PBT) is offered in areas where the internet-based test is not available. It is given 6 times a year.







Check: TOEFL Slot Booking

Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic)

PTE Academic is now accepted by more than 150 institutions in Australia including over 80% of TAFEs. It is also accepted by DIAC for student visas. Students can take the test in twelve cities in India. However, test takers should crosscheck the score requirements with both DIAC and their desired institutions.

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In case your English language proficiency score is not up to the mark, you can enrol in an English language course to prepare you for further study. Almost all Australian universities have in-campus English language centres or have links with English language colleges. Read: PTE Exam Slot

Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) Certificates

Students can now demonstrate their English language skills needed for academic success through Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) scores. It is also accepted by the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) for the visa application process. Since the test is also run by the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL), its score is equivalent to the IELTS score and the equivalency is accepted by DIAC.

Duolingo English Test

Some Australian universities have started accepting the Duolingo English Test (DET) as an alternative to traditional English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. The test is conducted online, and students receive results within 48 hours. It measures listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills and is accepted by several Australian institutions for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Read more:

Registration Fee for ELP Tests

The following table summarises the registration fees and important dates for each of the above-given English language proficiency tests, for those who would be choosing to appear for these exams:

ELP Tests Registration Fees Important Dates
TOEFL INR 16,900 TOEFL Important Dates
IELTS INR 17,000 IELTS Test Dates
PTE Academic INR 18,000 PTE Test Dates
Duolingo INR 5,515 -

Indian students applying for admission to Australian Universities can submit any one of the test scores depending on their course and university.

Exams for Undergraduate Courses in Australia

Indian students seeking undergraduate admission in Australia have to qualify for the academic eligibility of Australian universities. Depending on the course and institution, additional exams may be required in some cases.

Class XII Board Exam Scores

For undergraduate applications in Australia, the most crucial examination for Indian students is the Class 12 board exam, also known as the Senior Secondary School Certificate. The Australian universities generally expect that the applicant has completed their 12th-grade education from the recognized Indian board, which may include CBSE, ICSE, or State Board exams. The minimum percentage may vary, but at least 60-70% is often a baseline for admission into the most popular programs based on the levels of ATAR for the study.

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

SATs are not always required in some of the Australian universities but could be demanded by competitive ones like engineering, computer science, and business. The SAT is a standardized test most commonly used for college entry in the United States; however, some of the universities in Australia take the SAT for entry. The SAT assesses skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.

Other Entrance Exams Taken in Australia

Some courses in Australia have additional tests or prerequisites, especially in medicine, law, engineering, or design fields. Some of these exams include: 

  • UMAT (Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test): This test is required by several medical schools in Australia to measure general skills and knowledge to be used in health science courses.
  • LSAT (Law School Admission Test): This test is required for admission to law programs at law schools in Australia.
  • Engineering or Design Portfolios: Some creative fields, such as graphic design or architecture, may require students to submit portfolios of their work.

Exams for Postgraduate Programs in Australia

Indian students applying to postgraduate programs like Masters, MBA in Australia or even PhD courses in Australia will have to submit standardised exam scores. Some universities may require standard tests, while others might only look at academic qualifications and professional experience.

GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

In Australia, for some postgraduate programs in the fields of engineering, science, and computer science, the GRE is required. It is a standardized test which measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. A higher GRE score is usually preferred by competitive programs.

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

The GMAT is a standardized test applied for admission to business schools around the world. In case you are applying for an MBA or other business-related postgraduate courses, most Australian institutions will require GMAT scores. It tests quantitative, verbal, and analytical skills. The competitive GMAT score varies with the university and the program, but it generally falls at 645 or above.

Also check: Is it mandatory to take TOEFL/IELTS with GRE/GMAT?

To study in Australia, Indian students must have both academic as well as English proficiency to be admitted to Australian universities. All international students are typically required to take the tests of English language like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE. In addition to the above, for undergraduate as well as postgraduate courses, the students may need to take additional tests depending on the course they want to pursue, such as GRE, GMAT, or subject-specific tests. Check: IELTS v/s TOEFL v/s PTE - Which one to choose?

Proper preparation and knowledge of the requirements for taking the exam will enable you to work through the application process to increase your chances of getting admitted into your preferred program in Australia. With the right qualifications and scores in the appropriate exams, you can set out on an exciting educational journey in Australia.

Want to study in Australia but cannot shortlist the right universities? Sign up for free Shiksha Abroad Counselling and get expert guidance from our team of specialised counsellors. 

Q:   Is Torrens University good for international students?

A:

Torrens University Australia is one of the fastest growing universities in Australia. It offers a culturally vibrant and comfortable environment for international students. Each year thousands of international students from all over the world come to study at various courses of the university. currently, there are 3932 total students at Torrens University out of which 986 are international students.

Q:   Is it worth studying at Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia?

A:

Melbourne Institute of Technology Australia (MITA) is largely regarded as one of Australia's top institutions. It has a solid reputation in engineering, business, and science. 

To begin with, Melbourne Institute of Technology Australia provides a world-class education with an emphasis on hands-on learning. You will be able to gain practical knowledge and abilities in a range of disciplines. Furthermore, the institution provides a wide range of courses and programmes that will provide you with the skills and knowledge required for a successful profession.

Second, the university is well-known on a global scale. It has the highest graduate employability rate in Australia. This is due to the great level of education and possibilities provided by the university to its students.

Third, the university boasts a broad and vibrant culture. While learning, you will be able to pursue your hobbies and meet like-minded people. This will aid in the development of your professional chances and the formation of strong relationships that will continue long after you graduate.

Fourth, the institution provides a wide range of facilities and services to make your studies more pleasurable and productive. You will be able to locate

Q:   Is it hard to get into Newcastle University Australia?

A:

The University of Newcastle is amog the universities that does not publish official data on the acceptance rate. However, as per some unofficial sources, the University of Newcastle Australia acceptance rate is 80%. This makes Newcastle University Australia moderately selective in admissions. Please note that the data on acceptance rate given above is taken from an unofficial source, therefore, it is subject to vary. 

Q:   What is the PTE requirement for Stanley College Australia?

A:

The PTE score for international students must be in the range of 50-57 for Stanley College Australia. However, students are expected to fulfill other English language proficiency tests along with PTE. The table below is the English language proficiency score for all the tests required at Stanley College:

Exam

Score Required 

TOEFL IBT 

Overall 60-78

IELTS 

6.0

PTE 

50-57

Cambridge English Advanced

169

Q:   Is there any application fees for MIT Australia?

A:

The university does not charge any application from its national or international applicants. It means that aspirants for all courses/programs may apply to the university free of cost.

Q:   Should I consider Curtin University in Australia?

A:

Curtin is a well-renowned university, popular for its powerful business ties, high-impact research, and dedication to educating students for the occupations of the future. Students can avail top-notch research and teaching at Curtin, which is ranked in the top 1% of universities globally in the prestigious Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2024. The university believes in providing research opportunities, and practical learning through its diverse programs, making it one of the best institutions for international students.

Q:   What are the benefits of studying at the University of South Australia in Adelaide?

A:

University of South Australia is one of the leading public universities in Adelaide, Australia. It is not just one of the top universities in Australia, but also a part of the top 500 universities in the world. Listed below are some of the best reasons to study in UniSA:

  • Vast variety of courses and excellence in teaching;
  • Diversity and rich culture;
  • Beautiful campus;
  • Affordable tuition fees;
  • Small class sizes; and
  • Student-centred approach.

Q:   Why to choose Bond University for MS in Australia rather than University of Queensland?

A:

Bond University and the University of Queensland are both prestigious institutions in Australia, each with its own unique strengths. Bond University is ranked 20th in the Times Higher Education rankings of the Best Small Universities in the World and has been Australia's top university for the educational experience for 17 consecutive years. 

On the other hand, the University of Queensland, located in Brisbane, is one of the leading research and teaching institutions in Australia. The university is ranked in the world's top 100 universities according to several major ranking systems, including QS (50), ARWU (47), and Times Higher Education (53).

About the Author
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Written by
Aishwarya Bhatnagar
Study Abroad Expert

Aishwarya is a professional Writer currently working as a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. She has over 5 years of experience and is skilled at creating Online Content with leveraged knowledge i... Read Full Bio

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Anuradha
All courses in ANZ

Armed with B.Com from Delhi University, Anuradha Sharma has accumulated rich experience as an education counsellor. She is especially adept at handling Australia and NZ admission procedure. Before becoming a GTE Exp... Read Full Bio

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Comments

(40)

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Yogesh Dhankar

2 years ago

Sir i am in 12th class now and i have got letter of recommendation from school :According which i have to give exam from angle of going to australia

Reply to Yogesh Dhankar

A

2 years ago

Hello Yogesh, the exams that you'll have to appear for as I understand will be for an undergraduate course. You will have to check the university you are applying to and the course requirements. You will definitely have to appear for an English language proficiency tests as mentioned in this article

...Read more

A

Anonymous Boy

4 years ago

I have 89% in 10th 69% in 12th And 60% in btech cse ielts 6.5 Can i get admission in Australia for masters degree in data science

Reply to Anonymous Boy

R

Rahul Singha

4 years ago

hello. get all the information about studying in Universities in Australia along with eligibility guidelines and fee structure, here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/australia

H

Hema Sree

6 years ago

Hi I want to pursue my masters degree in electronic and communication engineering Which course is best for that

Reply to Hema Sree

Hi, I want to pursue a degree in forensic anthropology, which institute should I look out for.. suggestions please

Reply to Aarthi Dharmalingam

R

Riddhi Jadhav

6 years ago

I want to pursue B.Sc. in zoology in an Australian university. Please may I get the information about the exams that I'll have to give.

Reply to Riddhi Jadhav

HI Riddhi, typically the IELTS must be taken to meet the English language requirements. Any other exam if required will depend on the university's admission norms.