Temporary Suspension of TOEFL Acceptance for Australian Visas

In a recent announcement by the Australian government, TOEFL will no longer be acceptable for Australian immigration. TOEFL(Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a test to measure English language ability for non-native speakers. This test is mandatory for taking admissions in English-speaking universities. This test examines the reading, listening, speaking and writing ability. The TOEFL iBT exam is conducted by many universities globally and is considered a crucial test for admission into any university.

Temporary Suspension of TOEFL 

The Department of Home Affairs announced the suspension of the TOEFL test. The Australian Home Affairs has announced that “TOEFL iBT will no longer be taking English language tests for Australian visa purposes until further notice”. 

TOEFL iBT will be temporarily suspended for visa purposes from 26 July 2023 until further notice. The TOEFL examination is a group of assessments to evaluate a person’s proficiency in the English language; the Australian government has announced a temporary suspension from 26 July 2023.

Last month, ETS optimised the TOEFL test duration from three hours to two hours to improve the overall experience of the candidates. Candidates who took the test before 25 July 2023 are still valid if they applied for a visa and can still get the admissions. 

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Alternative English Proficiency Tests Accepted

ETS, the entity in charge of administering English language proficiency exams, has recently introduced an upgraded edition of the TOEFL iBT test. It improves the overall performance and success rates of candidates. It enhances the test-taker experience by reducing the test time and streamlining the test process. 

The Australian Department of Home Affairs accepts the following alternative English proficiency tests for visa applications:

1. International English Language Testing System (IELTS): International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an internationally recognised English language proficiency test. The examination comprises four parts: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

2. Occupational English Test (OET): The Occupational English Test (OET) is designed specifically for healthcare professionals and assesses their proficiency in the English language within a healthcare setting.

3. Pearson Test of English (PTE): The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is an English language proficiency test that evaluates the speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills of non-native English speakers. The test consists of several sections, including speaking and writing tasks, multiple-choice questions, and listening and reading comprehension exercises.

4. Cambridge English (CAE): The Cambridge English Test is at various levels, from beginner to advanced. Universitie­s, employers, and other organisations rely on the test as a trusted measure of English language proficiency for non-native­ speakers. It provides a re­liable and valid assessment of their language abilities.

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 Conclusion

The Australian government has temporarily halted the usage of TOEFL iBT for visa purposes in recent updates by ETS. Individuals applying for visas can showcase their English proficiency by taking alternative tests such as IELTS, PTE, CAE, and OET while Australian Home Affairs improvises the test.

Stay updated with the Australian Department of Home Affairs for further announcements on the acceptance of TOEFL iBT visa scores.