Best IELTS Alternatives for Australian Student Visa 2026

Your Guide to English Tests Accepted by Australian Universities

Australia remains one of the top 3 study destinations globally, hosting over 700,000 international students each year. While IELTS is widely known, it’s not the only way to prove your English proficiency for Australia. In fact, many Australian universities now accept multiple IELTS alternatives, giving students more flexibility, faster testing options, and sometimes lower costs.

This complete guide breaks down all IELTS alternatives accepted by Australian universities, including PTE Australia, TOEFL Australia, and Duolingo. We will also cover score requirements, benefits, and who should choose what.

With many more students choosing Australia as their study destination, selecting the right test can be the “make or break” factor in your application. Let’s dive in!

Why Look for IELTS Alternatives in Australia?

Let’s be honest – IELTS isn’t for everyone. Long test duration (almost 3 hours), limited test dates in some regions, high retake pressure and speaking test anxiety can be hard for many.

To stay competitive and student-friendly, Australian universities now accept multiple English proficiency tests, making it easier for international students to apply without delays. Over 85% of Australian universities accept at least one IELTS alternative, according to university admissions data (2025). Let’s look at the IELTS alternatives for Australia.

1. PTE Academic: The Fastest Growing Alternative

The PTE Australia (Pearson Test of English) has become the go-to choice for thousands of international students. Why? Because it is entirely computer-based and marked by AI, removing human bias from the scoring process.

Why Choose PTE Australia?

• Scores available within 48 hours (compared to IELTS’s 13 days)
• Tests are available almost daily at multiple centres
• AI-based evaluation eliminates human bias
• Costs approximately AUD $380-400
• Accepted by 100% of Australian universities for all visa categories.

Minimum PTE Scores for Australian Universities

• Undergraduate programs: 50-58 overall
• Postgraduate programs: 58-65 overall
• Competitive courses (Medicine, Law): 65-79 overall

2. TOEFL iBT: The Gold Standard

If you are comfortable with academic English and a structured format, TOEFL Australia is a prestigious option. Since July 2024, the enhanced TOEFL iBT has been shortened to under two hours, making it much less exhausting than the traditional IELTS.

TOEFL Australia Advantages:

• Like PTE, TOEFL Australia is accepted by the “Group of Eight” (Go8) universities.
• Specifically designed for university-level English
• Can retake after 3 days if needed
• Scores are valid for 2 years

Minimum TOEFL Scores for Australia

• Undergraduate: 60-79 overall (varies by university)
• Postgraduate: 79-94 overall
• High-demand programs: 94-100+ overall

While TOEFL Australia acceptance is widespread, it’s worth noting that some universities show slight preferences. For example, the University of Queensland explicitly lists TOEFL iBT minimum scores of 87 overall, with no section below 19, while Macquarie University requires 83 overall, with writing minimum 21 and listening/reading/speaking minimums of 12.

3. Duolingo English Test (DET): Is it Accepted?

One of the most frequent questions we get: “Is Duolingo accepted in Australia?” The answer is nuanced. While the Australian government does not currently accept the DET for student visa (Subclass 500) purposes, many Australian universities accept it for issuing an Offer Letter or ELICOS entry.

Why Duolingo Accepted Australian Universities Are Increasing:

• Costs only USD $70 (approximately AUD $105)
• Take from home using a computer and a webcam
• Scores within 48 hours
• Free to send scores to unlimited universities

Duolingo Accepted Australian Universities Include:

• University of Melbourne
• University of Sydney
• Monash University
• Macquarie University
• Deakin University
• Griffith University
• Swinburne University of Technology
• Bond University

Minimum Duolingo Scores

• Bachelor’s programs: 105-115
• Master’s programs: 115-125
• Competitive courses: 125-135

Many students use Duolingo to secure a conditional offer while they prepare for their final visa-approved test. Always check with your specific institution, as many regional universities are more flexible with DET.

4. Cambridge English Qualifications

Cambridge English exams, particularly C1 Advanced (CAE) and C2 Proficiency (CPE), are well-established IELTS alternatives that Australia accepts. These tests assess high-level English proficiency and are particularly valued by prestigious universities.

Cambridge English Qualifications:

• Unlike other tests that expire in 2 years, Cambridge results are often viewed as valid for a longer duration by academic institutions.
• It proves you have the deep language skills required for high-level research and professional work.

Accepted Cambridge Tests

• C1 Advanced (CAE): Score of 169-180
• C2 Proficiency (CPE): Score of 180+
• B2 First: Some universities for undergraduate programs

Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate: The Hidden Gem

Perhaps the least known yet most accessible pathway among IELTS alternatives that Australia offers is the Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate. If you completed previous education (typically 3+ years) entirely in English, many Australian universities waive English testing requirements completely.

Who Qualifies for MOI Exemption:

• Students from partially English-speaking countries (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Philippines, etc.)
• Graduates from English-medium schools/colleges
• Those with specific board certifications (CBSE, ICSE, certain state boards)

Universities Accepting MOI:

• University of Queensland
• University of Adelaide
• Macquarie University
• Swinburne University of Technology
• Bond University

How to Obtain the MOI Certificate

Request a formal letter from your previous institution stating: “The medium of instruction for [Student Name] during [Years] was entirely in English for all subjects.” Include official letterhead, signatures, and stamps.

Comparing IELTS Alternatives: Which Should You Choose?

University English Pathway Programs

Another valuable IELTS alternative in Australia is direct English language programs offered by universities themselves. If you don’t meet English requirements through any test, you can:

• Enroll in English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programs (10-50 weeks depending on level)
• Complete bridging courses that prepare you for degree-level study
• Transition directly into your chosen degree upon completion

Universities offering pathway programs include the University of Melbourne, UNSW Sydney, the University of Adelaide, and Swinburne. While adding time and cost to your journey, pathway programs guarantee admission to your degree program and help you adapt to Australian academic culture.

Step-by-Step: Applying Without IELTS

Step 1: Research University Requirements

Visit official university websites and check specific English requirements for your chosen program. Requirements vary significantly between universities and courses.

Step 2: Evaluate Your Options

If you studied in an English-medium institution, request an MOI certificate (saves time and money). Otherwise, choose between PTE Australia, TOEFL Australia, or Duolingo based on your strengths, budget, and timeline.

Step 3: Prepare and Take Your Chosen Test

Allocate 4-8 weeks for preparation. Use official practice materials:

• PTE Australia: PTE Academic Official Practice App
• TOEFL Australia: ETS TOEFL Preparation materials
• Duolingo: Duolingo English Test preparation course

Step 4: Apply to Universities

Submit applications with alternative test scores. Most universities in Australia accept IELTS alternatives equally to IELTS scores, with no disadvantage in admissions.

Step 5: Plan for Visa Requirements

Remember, if you’re using Duolingo for admission in an Australian university, you’ll still need IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL for your student visa application. Plan accordingly to avoid delays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Assuming Duolingo Works for Everything

While Duolingo is accepted by Australian universities, they use it for admissions. Australian immigration does NOT accept it for student visas. Budget for a second test.

Mistake 2: Not Checking Section-Wise Requirements

Universities don’t just set overall scores – they require minimum scores in each section. Verify you meet all requirements.

Mistake 3: Waiting Too Long for Scores

PTE Australia and TOEFL Australia results take different times. Apply for tests 2-3 months before application deadlines to allow for potential retakes.

Mistake 4: Ignoring MOI Eligibility

Many students unnecessarily take expensive tests when they qualify for free MOI exemptions. Check eligibility first!

Mistake 5: Not Verifying Current Policies

IELTS alternatives in Australia change periodically. Always check university websites for the most current requirements rather than relying solely on third-party sources.

Scholarships Without IELTS

Good news! IELTS alternatives in Australian universities also extend scholarship eligibility to students using PTE, TOEFL, or other alternatives. Major scholarships available include:

• Australia Awards Scholarships: Accept PTE/TOEFL
• Destination Australia Scholarship: Accept all English tests
• University-specific scholarships: No test preference, just meet English requirements
• Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships: Available to students with any accepted English proof

Strategic Tips for Your English Test

• Check the Minimums: Most universities require a PTE Australia score of 58+ for Bachelors and 64+ for Masters.
• Look for Waivers: If you completed your secondary education in an English-speaking country (like the UK or USA), you might not need a test at all!
• Timing: Ensure your TOEFL Australia or PTE score is no more than 2 years old at the time of your visa application.

Your Path Forward: Making the Right Choice

Choosing among IELTS alternatives for Australia depends on your individual circumstances:

Choose PTE Australia if You:

• Want the fastest results and flexible scheduling
• Are comfortable with computer-based testing
• Need results valid for both admission and visa

Choose TOEFL Australia if You:

• Prefer academic-style English testing
• Have previously taken TOEFL or SAT (similar format)
• Target University explicitly prefers TOEFL

Choose Duolingo if:

• Budget is extremely tight
• You want home-based testing convenience
• You’re willing to take a second test for a visa

Choose the MOI Certificate if You:

• Completed education in an English-medium institution
• Want to save both time and money
• Target universities accept MOI (verify first!)

Choose Pathway Programs if You:

• Need significant English improvement
• Want guaranteed admission after completion
• Can afford additional time investment

Confused about IELTS alternatives in Australia or unsure which test fits your profile? Get FREE counselling with AGP today.

We’ll help you choose the right test, university, and intake without wasting time or money. Contact Now!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

1. Can I study in Australia without IELTS?

Yes, via IELTS alternatives or pathway programs.

2. Is PTE easier than IELTS for Australian visas? 

Many students find PTE Australia easier because it is computer-scored, meaning there is no face-to-face interview anxiety.

3. Does the Australian High Commission accept Duolingo? 

Currently, Australian universities can issue admissions with Duolingo, but the Department of Home Affairs generally requires PTE, TOEFL, or IELTS for the visa.

4. What is the minimum TOEFL score for Australia? 

Most universities look for a TOEFL Australia iBT score of 79 for postgraduate entry.

5. Are IELTS alternatives in Australia valid for PR? 

Yes! PTE Australia and TOEFL are widely accepted for Skilled Migration and Permanent Residency points.

6. How long are PTE scores valid for Australian universities? 

For most IELTS alternatives in Australia, results are valid for 2 years for university admission and 3 years for immigration purposes.