Plan your studiesWhat Exams Are Required to Study in Australia

What Exams Are Required to Study in Australia

Australia is a highly desirable study destination for students from all corners of the world. The affordable tuition fees, a great education system, and an extensive selection of courses make the country irresistible. Consequently, the admissions application numbers keep rising each academic year. Since the majority of Australian Universities offer courses in English, the admission criteria involve language proficiency tests as a no-brainer for eligibility. 

To prove you possess sufficient knowledge of the English language, there are certain tests you can take. The type of exams varies depending on the visa and university nature. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Cambridge Exam, are the two most common exams that you may be required to sit for. 

Study in Australia Requirements 

After doing all the research to know you want to study in Australia, now comes the difficult and the most exhausting part. The Australian universities list is endless, as well as the courses they offer. The flexibility of the studies is one of the main features that characterize these universities. The university entry requirements depend on many factors, such as the university’s location, the program, nationality, and personal interests. 

Academic Requirements 

For undergraduate studies, you need to submit proof of the 12-year certificate of education if you are applying domestically. On the other hand, international students must present equivalent documents that show completion of earlier education. Those applying for a postgraduate degree need to have a Bachelor’s degree or graduate diploma, obtained at an accredited academic institution, regardless of the location.

Visa Requirements 

The type of visa depends on your chosen study program. First and foremost, you must meet Australian health requirements and undergo some medical exams to be eligible to apply for a student visa. Demonstrating English language proficiency plays a crucial role in the visa process. Additionally, students should be able to prove possession of monetary means for covering traveling tickets, living costs, as well as tuition fees.

Language Requirements

The level of English fluency qualification may vary from university and the level of education you may wish to study. All international applicants need to provide results of certain English tests that you can find listed later in the article. Exceptions will be made to those who have completed 1-2 years of English taught studies. This requirement is imperative due to the language limitations in Australian Universities, where the majority of courses are taught in English.

What Exams Do I Need to Study in Australia? 

English language proficiency is part of the requirements when applying for a student visa in Australia, as well as a criterion to get admitted at your chosen university. Some universities may have a different entry-level requirement in comparison to the scores needed for obtaining a visa.

Here is a list of the exams you need to study in Australia: :

IELTS

IELTS is a language assessment test that is recognized in universities of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, as well as British institutions. It is one of the best entrance exams which comprises four sections: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. IELTS is available in more than 130 countries with around 800 centers. The minimum score requirement for getting a visa is 5.5 overall. However, to get enrolled in a university you will need at least a 6.5 score overall.

Cambridge Exam

Cambridge courses are available in Australia as preparation methods before entering the actual exam. Unlike IELTS, the Cambridge exam has a permanent validity, meaning it can be used anytime in the future. The Cambridge exam can train you in four different aspects of the English language such as grammar, vocabulary, reading, and writing. 

TOEFL (Test of English as Foreign Language)

There are two kinds of TOEFL tests, PBT( Paper-based test) or iBT which is computer-based. The amount of time needed to complete the TOEFL is 4 hours and 20 minutes, way more than IELTS, which takes only 2 hours and 45 minutes. Australian universities require a minimum of 570 PBT scores and 75 iBT scores. To get an Australian student visa, a minimum score of 46 iBT must be obtained.

PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

Similar to the previously mentioned tests, PTE also has four sections: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. This type of test is accepted in any of the universities in Australia. The time limit for PTE is 3 hours. You need to score a minimum of 42 to be able to apply to study in Australia. Nevertheless, it is recommended to attempt a score between 50 to 64 for better qualifications.

GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)

GRE is not part of the mandatory requirements in Australian universities, however, it can be helpful if you want to apply for a scholarship. Moreover, it will be a great addition to your list of qualifications if you are planning to study for an MBA, since some universities may include it in the list of the admission requirements. 

GMAT (Graduate Management Aptitude Test)

You can enroll in some of the best business schools in Australia provided that you get a GMAT score of at least 680. The only three universities in Australia that accept GMAT tests are the Australian School of Business, Melbourne School of Business, and the Queensland University of Technology. Although a GMAT test is not required, it will increase your chances of admission.

Additional Requirements 

Here are a few additional requirements to study in Australia:

  • GPA assessment 
  • Passport or birth certificate
  • Official translation of academic transcripts
  • Motivation letter 
  • English language certificate 
  • Transcripts translation, Diploma
  • Two references (professors, previous employers, tutors)
  • Resume
  • Portfolio 
  • Other certificates and letters of accomplishments

Furthermore, the applicant should be able to explain why they are not continuing the same studies in their home country and submit proof of their ties to their country of residence. 

Study in Australia Application Process

The procedure of applying to universities in Australia is rather simple if you know which university you want to attend and the degree you want to pursue. The application process is pretty similar to anywhere in the world except for the visa obligation if you are an international applicant. Gathering the required documents should be a breeze, nevertheless, you can ask assistance from the admission office at the chosen institution or the Australian embassy/consulate located in your home country.

Here is an overview of the steps you should take when applying to any Australian university:

1. Choose the Program

Initially, it is recommended that all applicants browse through the universities of Australia and make a list of those that match their interests. After thorough research, it will be easier for you to decide on the courses you want to take. You should take into consideration several factors which are crucial to making your final choice. Circumstances such as location, campus, courses and services they offer, and the extracurricular activities you can attend, can make a huge difference. 

2. Prepare the Necessary Documents

Secondly, you must gather all the required documents and be ready to submit them. The required documents were listed previously in this article, however, you should never hesitate to contact your course provider at the chosen institution for any doubt and insecurities you might have during the process.

3. Student Visa Application 

Finally, you managed to apply successfully and get accepted at the university of your dreams. All that’s left to do is apply for the visa and you will be all set. After receiving a letter of acceptance from your university, you will submit it as evidence for your student visa application. Earlier in the article, we listed the requirements to qualify for a student visa. Check your eligibility, buy a plane ticket and send that visa application as soon as you can, as the procedure might take time.

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