Yes — the English test rules for the 482 visa changed on 13 September 2025.
If you’re applying for the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa, your test must now follow the updated list of providers, score thresholds and re-sit options.
When Did the New Rules Start?
The new English test requirements apply to 482 visa applications lodged on or after 13 September 2025, based on the LIN 25/082 legislative instrument.
If you did your test before this date, older rules still apply.
What Changed?
Here’s what’s new for 482 visa applicants:
- New Approved Tests
You can now use results from:
- CELPIP General
- LANGUAGECERT Academic
- Michigan English Test (MET)
These were added to the existing list of accepted exams.
- Updated Terminology
- Cambridge CAE is now listed as C1 Advanced
- IELTS now includes both General Training and Academic
- One Skill Retake (OSR) Is Now Allowed
For tests taken on or after 13 September 2025, you can:
- Re-sit a single skill (e.g. just Reading or Speaking)
- Use IELTS OSR or MET SSR (Single Section Retake)
This does not apply to tests taken before that date — older results must still be from a single attempt.
Required Scores (From 13 September 2025)
To meet the 482 English requirement, you must reach the minimum score in each component.
There is no overall score requirement.
|
Test |
Listening |
Reading |
Writing |
Speaking |
|
IELTS (Academic or General) |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
TOEFL iBT |
8 |
8 |
9 |
14 |
|
PTE Academic |
33 |
36 |
29 |
24 |
|
OET |
220 |
240 |
200 |
270 |
|
Cambridge C1 AdvancedN; |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
|
CELPIP General |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
LANGUAGECERT Academic |
41 |
44 |
45 |
54 |
|
MET |
49 |
47 |
45 |
38 |
- Tests must be taken at a secure test centre.
- Online or at-home tests are not accepted (e.g. IELTS Online, OET@Home, MET Digital).
How Long Are Results Valid?
- English test results are valid for 3 years from the original test date, even if you re-sit a single component later.
- The entire application must be lodged while your test is still valid.
FAQs
- Can I use an online test like IELTS Online or MET Digital?
No. Online or remote-proctored tests are not accepted for any 482 visa applications.
- Can I use One Skill Retake (OSR)?
Yes, but only if your test was taken on or after 13 September 2025.
Final Thoughts
If you’re applying for the 482 visa, don’t risk using the wrong test or an outdated score. The rules are strict, and a simple mistake can delay or derail your application.
Need help checking your eligibility or interpreting the new rules?
Contact Seven Migration — our team can guide you step-by-step and help you prepare a complete, compliant application.