International Students 

To apply for an Australian student visa, students must take an approved English language test through an authorised provider at a secure test centre in their home country or another approved location.

Here’s how:

  1. Choose an approved test

  For visa purposes, the Australian Government accepts the following tests (recommended):​

• PTE Academic; or 

• IELTS (Academic or General Training).

  2. Register with an approved provider​ 

• PTE Academic: Book through www.pearsonpte.com; or 

• IELTS: Book through www.ielts.org

  Choose a test centre approved for visa purposes in your country. Online or at-home tests are not accepted for Australian    visa applications.

  3. Bring the correct ID

  You’ll usually need your passport to sit the test.

  4. Use the test for your visa application

  Ensure your test results are valid (usually for 2 years) and meet the minimum English language requirements for your     

  visa  subclass. Most student visa applicants need an PTE score of 50 or IELTS equivalent of 6.0 or above. 

​

Do you need to undertake IELTS or PTE preparation classes?

 

Preparing for an English language test can make a significant difference to your confidence and overall score. If you’re planning to sit the IELTS or PTE Academic test as part of your Australian student visa application, you may benefit from undertaking preparation classes.

​

While Access Recognised Training Australia does not offer test preparation courses, we’ve compiled a list of trusted, independent providers that specialise in IELTS and PTE preparation. These organisations offer flexible online options, structured study programs, and expert guidance to help you feel fully prepared on test day. The Study Australia website also provides a free Speaking English Practice Test. The free test will give you an idea of how you will perform in the exams.   

​​

NOTE: For your English test results to be accepted for a student visa, you must sit the test at an approved test centre in your country or region. Online or at-home test versions are not currently accepted for Australian visa purposes. If you're unsure which test to take or how to meet English language requirements for your course or visa, feel free to contact our team. We're happy to help guide you.

 

1. PTE Tutorials

Website: www.ptetutorials.com
Test Covered: PTE Academic
Format: Online platform and app
Features:

• Scored mock tests

• Skill-specific practice

• AI-based feedback

• Speaking and writing evaluations
   

2. British Council – IELTS Preparation

Website: www.britishcouncil.org
Test Covered: IELTS (Academic and General Training)
Format: Online and in-person (depending on location)
Features:

• Free practice tests and sample questions

• Interactive online courses through IELTS Ready

• Webinars, mobile apps, and downloadable resources

• Official IELTS test booking and preparation in one place
   

The British Council is one of the co-owners of IELTS and offers a wide range of trusted materials to help you prepare with confidence.

 

3. E2 Test Prep

Website: www.e2language.com
Tests Covered: IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL, OET
Format: 100% online
Features:

• Live and recorded classes

• Practice exams and progress tracking

• Certified teachers

• Free and premium plans available
   

4. Magoosh

Website: www.magoosh.com
Tests Covered: IELTS, TOEFL, (some PTE content)
Format: Online, self-paced
Features:

• Video lessons and interactive quizzes

• Mobile-friendly access

• Flexible pricing with monthly subscriptions

• Score improvement guarantees for select packages
   

5. IELTS Liz

Website: www.ieltsliz.com
Test Covered: IELTS
Format: Online resources and video lessons
Features:

• Expert tips from a former IELTS examiner

• Practice for all four test components

• Free tutorials and paid lesson packs

• Clear, practical guidance for all levels​​​