As of June 2025, international students planning to study English in Australia should be aware of several significant updates affecting English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) programs:
Effective from 23 March 2024, the Australian Government has implemented stricter English language proficiency standards:
- Student Visa (Subclass 500): Minimum IELTS score increased from 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent).
- ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students): For students undertaking ELICOS before their main course, the required IELTS score has risen from 4.5 to 5.0 (or equivalent).
- Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485): Minimum IELTS score increased from 6.0 to 6.5, with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, speaking, and listening).
These changes aim to ensure that international students are better prepared for academic success and integration into the Australian community.
Increased Visa Application Fees
As part of broader migration reforms, the Australian Government has more than doubled the international student visa application fee from A$710 to A$1,600, effective 1 July 2024. This measure is intended to manage migration levels and ensure the sustainability of Australia’s education sector.
