English language tests like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are typically a requirement for international students applying for universities in Australia to demonstrate their language proficiency. This ensures students are capable of effectively communicating with their lecturers, instructors, and peers and have no trouble understanding academic materials. In addition to enhancing students’ overall learning experience, proficiency in English will also help students assimilate into the diverse environment through social integration.
This article will provide you with the IELTS band requirements for Australian universities. This is to provide interested applicants with an insight into the application process and assist them in selecting institutions that match their linguistic skills.
Minimum IELTS Band Scores for Australian Universities
International students interested in pursuing their education in Australia are required to meet specific English language requirements, with IELTS being a commonly used assessment tool. Listed below are a list of popular Australian institutions and their minimum IELTS band requirements.
1. University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is an institution that has gained worldwide recognition for its diverse academic community and excellence in research. It offers a unique variety of academic programs across several disciplines and has consistently secured its place among the top-ranked universities in Australia.
The minimum IELTS band requirement at the University of Melbourne is 6.5 for most programs. However, specific programs like the Master of International Journalism and the Executive Master of Business Administration require a higher score of 7.0.
Here is what University of Melbourne scholars say about IELTS:
“I initially practiced for the IELTS with Yola Vietnam, but due to my IB workload, I eventually self-studied for the exam. I sat the IELTS in 2021 and received a score of 8.0.”
Trang Anh Siriphattrasophon
“I took the IELTS and scored an overall band 8.0. To prepare, I used free resources on the official IELTS website and followed several trusted YouTube channels that shared tips and sample responses.”
Humayra Tasnim Nooha
“I also took the IELTS exam, preparing through online resources and practice tests.”
Gurjas Singh
“I received an intensive three-month IELTS preparation program from the Provincial Government of West Nusa Tenggara through Rumah Bahasa. Although I had previously taken IELTS courses and a prediction test, this program significantly deepened my understanding.”
Arum Dyah Rinjani
“Working in international organizations allowed me to practice English daily as part of my long-term preparation. Additionally, the AAS supports our language improvement through pre-departure training and IELTS tests.”
Yusridar (Angie) Mustafa
2. Australian National University
The Australian National University (ANU) is situated in the heart of Australia’s capital, Canberra. The institution is popular for its dedication to excellence in academia and a strong emphasis on research. With a significant focus on innovation and critical thinking, ANU offers an interesting blend of academic programs in various fields like Engineering, Computing, and Cybernetics.
ANU typically requires a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5 for its undergraduate and graduate programs. Additionally, the university’s captivating campus life and status as a center of Australia’s cultural and political activity make it a highly appealing choice for foreign students.
Here is what Australian National University Scholars say about IELTS:
“For the English language requirement, I appeared for the IELTS exam. I prepared primarily using online resources, official IELTS practice materials, and mock tests, focusing on enhancing my reading and writing skills. The structured preparation helped me achieve a competitive score, meeting ANU’s admission criteria.”
Ankit Patro
“As part of the admissions process, I had to take an IELTS test. The key thing I would advise people to do when taking an IELTS or TOEFL test is to relax and treat it as you would an everyday conversation or university reading, as it’s intended to simulate situations a student would likely encounter when studying at a university overseas.”
Ilham Ramzy
“They even improved my English proficiency at the pre-departure training in Bali, so that at the end of the training, my IELTS score boosted to an overall score of 8.0.”
Fendhi Birowo
3. University of Sydney
The University of Sydney is among the oldest and most reputable institutions in Australia and boasts a dynamic campus life and rich history. The university is known for its significant focus on research and offers a variety of programs in various disciplines.
The minimum overall IELTS band requirement for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs at the University of Sydney is 6.5. However, some programs, like Nursing, for instance, may require additional English language requirements, like an IELTS score of 7.0 for non-English speakers.
Here is what University of Sydney scholars say about IELTS:
“IELTS is also required to apply for this program, and the overall score needed is 7.0 with no band below 6.5.”
Kevin Abimanyu Jatmiko
“You have to get an unconditional offer: This is acquired by having your IELTS/TOEFL test score and all GPA grades from your last semester in grade 12”
Minh-Hieu Vu
“I achieved an overall IELTS band score of 7.5 (Listening: 8, Reading: 7, Writing: 6.5, Speaking: 7.5).”
Dany Koem
4. Monash University
Monash University is renowned for its comprehensive approach and dedication to providing a quality education of international standards. Monash University has branch campuses in several locations around the globe, including Malaysia and China. It also offers a diverse range of programs in various fields, like Engineering, Arts, and Health Sciences.
The minimum overall IELTS score required at Monash University for students from non-English speaking backgrounds is 6.5. Individuals with an English-speaking background or education may be offered alternate methods to prove language proficiency.
Here is what Monash University Scholars say about IELTS:
“I had to retake the IELTS test and do the interview on the same day, but I was happy because my score improved to a band 7.5.”
Baiq Nabila Tazkya
“Fortunately, I had already begun preparing for the IELTS before applying for the scholarship.”
Ilham Perdana
“IELTS Score: 7.5 (achieved in 2022)”
Minh Thu “Daisy” Huynh
5. University of Queensland
Renowned for its extensive research initiatives, the University of Queensland (UQ) offers a variety of programs across fields like Business, Humanities, and Science. It is reputed for its beautiful campus which is located near the stunning Great Barrier Reef.
The minimum IELTS band requirement for most programs at UQ is 6.5. However, several programs require a higher IELTS score of 7.0. This includes the Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences, Master of Global Management, and Bachelor of Nursing among others.
Here is what University of Queensland Scholars say about IELTS:
“Since I was applying to institutions in the UK and Australia, only an English proficiency test was required. I took the IELTS. I prepared using free resources from the British Council, as well as online listening and speaking tutorials.”
Debanjana Maity
6. University of New South Wales
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is recognized for its commitment to research and innovative approach to education. UNSW consistently ranks among the top global universities and offers a wide range of academic programs.
The overall minimum IELTS band requirement at UNSW is 6.5, with several programs like Business and Engineering requiring 7.0 for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Additionally, students at UNSW also benefit from its extensive connections with the industry, offering valuable opportunities for career development and networking.
Here is what University of New South Wales scholars say about IELTS:
“I took the Academic IELTS, where the minimum score for a Master’s Award was 6.0.”
Maudita Dwi Anbarani
7. University of Western Australia
The University of Western Australia (UWA) is renowned for its research outputs and solid connections with the industry, specifically in fields like Engineering, Marine Science, and Agriculture. The institution offers a multitude of programs and facilitates an innovative learning environment.
The minimum IELTS band requirement at UWA is 6.5 for the majority of the programs, with several programs requiring higher scores, like the Master of Business Administration, and Master of Teaching which require a score of 7.0, and the Master of Education requires a score of 7.5. However, the Master of Taxation Law program requires a lower score of 6.0.
IELTS Scores of Students Studying in Australia
FAQs: IELTS in Australia
What IELTS score do Australian universities typically require?
Most top Australian universities set a minimum IELTS Academic of 6.5 overall for many programs, with certain degrees asking for higher scores (often 7.0 or above). For example, the University of Melbourne, ANU, Sydney, Monash, UQ, UNSW, and UWA commonly list 6.5 overall as the baseline, while some programs go higher.
Which programs in Australia tend to require higher IELTS scores?
Programs with intensive communication or clinical demands often have higher cutoffs. At the University of Melbourne, degrees like the Executive MBA and International Journalism may require IELTS 7.0; at the University of Sydney, Nursing typically requires around 7.0; UWA lists 7.0–7.5 for some education and teaching programs. Always check your target course page.
Do scholarships like Australia Awards help with IELTS preparation or test fees?
Yes, many recipients say the Australia Awards provided preparation and even covered IELTS testing. Fendhi Birowo shared that pre-departure training “boosted [his] IELTS score to an overall 8.0,” and Reza Saputra noted the program funded his IELTS after he was shortlisted. Several scholars also mention structured IELTS prep as part of AAS support.
Do Universities in Australia Consider Students Who Have Not Passed the IELTS Exam?
Yes, under certain conditions students who have not passed the IELTS exam may be considered for admission. Most universities offer alternate options for demonstrating language proficiency in English, like submitting scores for other recognized tests like Cambridge English Exams or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).
Additionally, students who carried out their previous education in English, or are from English-speaking countries. may be exempt from having to provide proof of English language proficiency. Students are advised to check with their desired institutions, for specific requirements for language proficiency.
In conclusion, language proficiency scores are an important aspect for international students interested in applying for university in Australia. Being proficient in English will allow students to seamlessly integrate into academic and social environments with no language barriers. To enhance the chances of successful admission at your desired institution, prospective students must meet language requirements.
We hope this article on the IELTS requirement in Australian universities was helpful. To learn more information about studying abroad, check out the Available Programs for International Students and Australia Study Guide sections!
