English Test Requirements Update: New PTE Core Accepted

The Department of Home Affairs has announced that PTE Core is now an officially accepted English language test for all Australian visa applications, providing applicants with an additional testing option alongside IELTS and the standard PTE Academic exam.

PTE Core, developed by Pearson, is designed to assess everyday English language proficiency and has been recognized for its accessibility and flexible testing schedule. The test evaluates reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills through an integrated assessment approach.

This addition to the list of accepted tests comes in response to feedback from prospective migrants and education institutions requesting more testing options. The Department has confirmed that PTE Core scores will be treated equivalently to IELTS and PTE Academic scores for visa eligibility purposes.

Test-takers can expect results within 48 hours, similar to the standard PTE Academic exam, making it an attractive option for applicants working within tight timeframes. The test is computer-based and available at testing centers worldwide.

Score requirements remain consistent across all accepted English tests. For skilled migration visas, applicants typically need to achieve a minimum score equivalent to IELTS 6.0 in each component, though higher scores are recommended for competitive occupation lists.

Education consultants and migration agents are updating their guidance to reflect this new testing option, noting that applicants should choose the test format they feel most comfortable with to achieve their best possible score.