In December 2024, Ahpra and National Boards published an advanced copy of the revised English language skills registration standards. These standards are set to take effect from April 2025.
They have stated that this change is aimed at to improving flexibility for applicants while keeping the public safe.
These include:
Common ELS standard which applies to the following professions: Chinese medicine, chiropractic, dental, medical radiation practice, medical, occupational therapy, optometry, osteopathy, paramedicine, pharmacy, physiotherapy, podiatry, and psychology.
Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia – applicable to nurses, registered nurses, and midwives.
Please note that the current (2015) ELS standards will remain until the revised standards come into effect by April 2025.
What are the new changes to the English language requirements?
IELTS scores needed:
The updated ELS standards include a reduced Writing component score for the approved English language tests from IELTS 7.0 to 6.5 (or equivalent).
The required minimum overall score remains as 7.0, with a minimum score of 7.0 in the Listening, Reading, and Speaking components.
These changes will only apply starting April 2025.
Test results are accepted from:
one test sitting, or
a maximum of two test sittings in a 12-month period only if:
you achieve a minimum overall score of 7 in each sitting,
and you achieve a minimum score of 7 in each component for listening, reading and speaking and a minimum score of 6.5 for writing across the two sittings, and
when using two test sittings no score in any component of the test(s) for either test sitting is below 6.5.
Ahpra and the National Boards accept the following IELTS tests for registration:
IELTS Academic paper or computer test in a testing venue
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What is Ahpra?
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) works with the 15 National Boards to help protect the public by regulating Australia's registered health practitioners.
Health practitioners and medical professionals must register with Ahpra to legally work and practice in Australia.
As part of their registration standards, English language skills requirements must be met.
Learn about the 15 National Boards.
Why choose IELTS?
IELTS is the world's most popular English test for a reason. Why choose IELTS?
IELTS is accepted by more universities, colleges and academic institutions than any other English test. The test is accepted globally by more than 12,500 organisations.
IELTS is the only English language test that offers a General Training option. IELTS General Training is accepted and trusted by the Australian Government for visa applications.
Are you more comfortable with paper or computer? IELTS lets you choose how you want to take your test.
Need faster results? Take IELTS on computer: results typically available within one day!
Feel confident on test day with official IELTS preparation materials. They are free and you'll get access to premium materials including webinars, videos and practice tests.
IELTS is the only major test to offer One Skill Retake. You can now retake any component of the test; Listening, Reading, Writing or Speaking. It's perfect if you want to improve on one area instead of redoing a full test. With other tests, you need to book, pay, and sit a full test again.
Ready to get started? Book your IELTS today and take the first step on your journey to living, working or studying in Australia!
Immigration and the law
Legislation about immigration changes frequently. It’s important to check the Australian Department of Home Affairs website for changes that may apply to you. If you are interested in Australian student visas, work visas, or looking to migrate permanently, you need to lodge an application with the Australian Government. You may want to consider getting support from a lawyer or migration agent.
Need to take an English test?
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