IELTS is the most commonly used English test for Australian skilled visas (189, 190, 491). Band 7.0 across all skills adds 10 points; band 8.0 adds 20. Both can make the difference between invitation and waiting.
| Level | IELTS Band (each) | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Competent | 6.0 | 0 (meets minimum) |
| Proficient | 7.0 | +10 points |
| Superior | 8.0 | +20 points |
Unlike Canada's CRS where language is the single highest factor, Australia's points test distributes weight more evenly across age, experience, education, and English. But 10-20 points from English proficiency can still be decisive, especially for candidates near the invitation threshold.
The jump from Competent (6.0) to Proficient (7.0) is often achievable with 8-12 weeks of focused practice. The jump from 7.0 to 8.0 is harder and may require longer preparation, especially in Writing.