Which English Language Tests does AHPRA accept?

This is a FAQ BLOG and you can refer to our AHPRA blog here.

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Date Updated: 2026-07-22

AHPRA accepts the Cambridge, IELTS, OET, TOEFL iBT, and PTE Academic. For profession-specific tests, they also accept the New Zealand Registration Examination (NZREX) and Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board test (PLAB test). Based on experience, they will only accept results from these exams if they were obtained within 2 years before the date you lodge your AHPRA application, unless you lodge your application for registration within 12 months of finishing your last period of employment.

The tests will have four components which are focused on Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Cambridge (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)
- The tests are taken through paper or computer at the test centre and you will need to find an exam centre to book an exam.
- Minimum scores:
  - C1:
    - Overall: 178
    - Listening: 175
    - Reading: 179
    - Writing: 180
    - Speaking: 194
  - C2:
    - Overall: 185
    - Listening: 185
    - Reading: 185
    - Writing: 176
    - Speaking: 185

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
- There is an academic module which is a paper or computer test that will be done in a testing venue including IELTS One Skill Retake (OSR). Your score will depend on the institution since they set their own IELTS score requirements. You can check your organisation here.
- Minimum scores:
  - Overall: 7
  - Listening: 7
  - Reading: 7
  - Writing: 6.5
  - Speaking: 7

Occupational English Test (OET)
- The tests are paper or computer-based (OET CBT) and will be taken at a testing venue.
- Minimum scores:
  - Listening: 350
  - Reading: 360
  - Writing: 350
  - Speaking: 360

PTE Academic or Pearson
- The tests are taken via computers at the testing centre.
- Minimum scores:
  - Overall: 63
  - Listening: 58
  - Reading: 59
  - Writing: 60
  - Speaking: 76

Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT)
- AHPRA advised to check the Department of Home Affairs website for test updates, because, to ensure your TOEFL iBT result is valid for Australian visa purposes, you must select ‘Taking TOEFL for Australia’ when registering for your test. Results not registered under this pathway may not be accepted for Australian visa purposes.
- Minimum scores:
  - Overall: 91
  - Listening: 22
  - Reading: 22
  - Writing: 23
  - Speaking: 24

We Can Help You

Here at People Medical Consulting, we have a passion for guiding medical practitioners through their career pathways to Australia. We have extensive experience in assisting medical facilities in recruiting doctors from local and overseas who will best suit their requirements.

We provide Document Assistance for those requiring support for their PESCI with IME, ACRRM or RACGP, registration and all other mandatory AHPRA requirements, fellowship program related forms and letters, application for Medicare provider and prescriber numbers, application for 19AB or 19AA exemptions and preparation of employment documents.

If you want to talk to someone about your pathway or practice management—book a consultation with us below, or if you need Recruitment or Document Assistance, contact us at help@peoplemedical.com.au or click the buttons below. We’d be glad to help you!

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Information from this blog has been taken directly from: