IELTS for an Australian student visa
The IELTS band for an Australian Student visa (subclass 500) under the 2025 rules: 6.0 overall, lower with ELICOS, and Academic or General Training both accepted.
The band you need
| For | Test | Overall | Each skill |
|---|---|---|---|
| Your main course | IELTS Academic or General Training | 6.0 | No minimum set |
| With 10+ weeks of ELICOS, a foundation or pathway program | IELTS Academic or General Training | 5.5 | No minimum set |
| With 20+ weeks of ELICOS | IELTS Academic or General Training | 5.0 | No minimum set |
Checked 29 October 2026 against the sources below. Requirements change, and your university or employer may ask for more: confirm with them before you book.
A practice plan
- Check your university's entry requirement: it is usually higher than the visa's 6.0 and often sets a minimum per skill.
- Book a test no more than two years before you apply for the visa.
- Take the free placement test; if you are below 6.0, plan an English course (ELICOS) or more practice before you book.
- Practise all four skills under real timing; a full mock test each week in the last month.
Start here
Questions
Can I use IELTS General Training for an Australian student visa?
Yes. Under the instrument in force since 7 August 2025, IELTS Academic and General Training are both accepted. Your university may still want Academic.
Is there a minimum band in each skill for the visa?
The visa sets an overall band only. Universities usually set their own, higher requirements, often with a minimum per skill.
How much does IELTS cost in Bangladesh?
IDP Bangladesh lists IELTS on Computer (Academic or General Training) at BDT 31,100 and IELTS for UKVI at BDT 34,850, and a One Skill Retake at BDT 18,600. Check the current fee when you book.