Over the years, universities in Australia have been getting more global recognition, thus, leading to an influx of students from all over the world.
International students interested in studying in Australia must take the IELTS exam to test their English language proficiency because English is the communication medium in Australian universities.
The IELTS score requirements for admission into Australian universities vary as each University sets its minimum requirement. This article seeks to identify the top universities in Australia and give the minimum IELTS test scores requirements.
- What Should You Know About Studying in Australia?
- What are the Requirements for Studying in Australia?
- What is the Minimum IELTS Score for Australian Universities?
- IELTS Score Requirements for Top Australian Universities
- 1. The Australian National University
- 2. The University of Melbourne
- 3. The University of Sydney
- 4. The University of New South Wales
- 5. The University of Queensland
- 6. Monash University
- 7. The University of Western Australia
- 8. The University of Adelaide
- 9. University of Technology Sydney
- 10. University of Wollongong
- 11. Curtin University
- 12. The University of Newcastle
- 13. Macquarie University
- 14. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
- 15. Queensland University of Technology
- 16. Deakin University
- 17. Griffith University
- 18. The University of Tasmania
- 19. Swinburne University of Technology
- 20. The University of South Australia
- Where Do Australian Universities Stand According to QS World University Rankings?
- Which University Does Not Require IELTS in Australia?
- Additional FAQs About IELTS Scores for Universities in Australia
What Should You Know About Studying in Australia?
The increasing popularity of Australian universities among international students is only to be expected, and this is because there are numerous advantages of studying in Australia. Some of these advantages include:
- World-class Univesities: Australia is home to many world-class universities. These universities are highly renowned for their academic and research excellence. Australian universities also offer a variety of degrees and courses. Students have plenty of options to choose from in their chosen field and universities offering these courses.
- Eligible to Work: International students can work up to 40 hours every two weeks during the school year and unlimited hours during scheduled holiday breaks.
- Post-grduation Work Opportunities: Australia offers the opportunity to stay back in the country to work after graduation. An international student who has graduated can apply for the Post-Study Work stream of the Temporary Graduate Visa issued by the Australian Government.
- Quality of Life: Australian cities are constantly ranked as some of the most liveable in the world. The quality of healthcare, transport, infrastructure, and government services are rated well above average and international students also enjoy these services.
What are the Requirements for Studying in Australia?
For international students to study in Australian universities, they must show their English language proficiency. The IELTS exam is the most preferred test of English language proficiency by Australian universities and other organizations.
The requirements for studying in Australia differ according to university standards. Each University has a different admission process for international students, and students are chosen based on how much they meet the requirements of the University they apply to.
However, there are general requirements that do not change according to University, these are:
- Applicants passport/birth certificate.
- Academic records/transcript.
- Applicants curriculum vitae (where applicable).
- Statement of purpose.
- Certificate of English Language proficiency.
- Academic references.
- Letters of recommendation.
On 1 July 2016, the Australian Government implemented the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF) to make applying for student visas by international students more straightforward.
This implementation introduced a new immigration risk framework, determining how much proof a student needs to supply with their application. Students at the lowest immigration risk level based on their country of citizenship and Australian education providers are eligible for streamlined evidentiary requirements.
It means that they can meet the English language requirements for a student visa by providing a Confirmation of Enrolment because the English language requirements for their course are equal to or greater than what is needed for a student visa. Although students assessed at a higher immigration risk level will still need to provide proof of score of an approved English language proficiency test.
What is the Minimum IELTS Score for Australian Universities?
Prospective International students of Australian universities must be at least 18 years old. Those below 18 are required to submit proof of parental consent. For undergraduate degrees, the minimum IELTS score accepted by Australian universities is 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 in all four parts.
A significant consideration for students at the postgraduate level is possessing a relevant undergraduate degree and good academic records. The minimum IELTS test score is 6.5 overall, with no bands less than 6.0.
However, it is essential to note that several undergraduate and postgraduate programs for courses such as Medicine, Engineering, and law require higher IELTS test scores than the minimum discussed below.
- To better understand how the scoring works for the IELTS exam, check out our details guide: IELTS Band Scoring System Overview.
IELTS Score Requirements for Top Australian Universities
The two most prestigious ranking metrics, the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and the Quacquarell Symonds University rankings, rank universities in Australia highly.
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022 ranks Australian universities among the 33rd – 1000th best universities globally out of the assessed institutions.
1. The Australian National University
Based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the Australian National University is ranked 54th globally. The institution has seven academic colleges that house several schools and research centers. The University is acclaimed for its academic and research excellence and consistently ranks among the top 5 universities in Australia.
The Australian National University requires a minimum IELTS test score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band for undergraduate students and a minimum of 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in each band for postgraduate students.
2. The University of Melbourne
Currently ranked 33rd globally according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the University of Melbourne is a renowned public research university. The University boasts many undergraduate and postgraduate courses, and it has 11 academic units, further divided into several faculties and schools.
The University of Melbourne requires a minimum IELTS test score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band for undergraduate students and a minimum of 7.0 with no less than 6.0 in each band for postgraduate students.
3. The University of Sydney
The University of Sydney is the oldest in Australia, and it currently ranks 58th in the world according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The institution is a member of the Group of Eight, comprising Australia’s leading research-intensive universities. The University is made up of eight academic faculties and several schools for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
The University of Sydney accepts a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 for undergraduate and graduate students.
4. The University of New South Wales
The University of New South Wales is a public research-intensive university in Sydney, Australia. The University is a member of the Group of Eight research-intensive intensive Australian universities, and it ranks 70th globally based on the Times Higher Education World University Ranking.
This University is renowned for its pioneering research in climate change, technology, and renewable energy, to name a few.
The University of New South Wales requires a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each band for undergraduate studies and 7.0 with no less than 6.0 in each band for postgraduate studies.
5. The University of Queensland
Ranked 54th globally based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the University of Queensland is one of Australia’s leading research and teaching institutions. The University is a member of the Group of Eight Australian research-intensive universities. The University boasts five undergraduate faculties and one postgraduate school, and it is also home to several research institutes.
The University of Queensland accepts an overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each IELTS test band for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
6. Monash University
Monash University is a public, research-intensive University in Melbourne, Australia. The University is ranked 57th globally according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The institution has four campuses in Australia and one in Malaysia.
The University is widely recognized for its research and academic excellence and boasts ten faculties that offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Monash University accepts an overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each IELTS test band for undergraduate and graduate students.
7. The University of Western Australia
Ranked 132nd globally based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the University of Western Australia is a public research university in Perth, Australia. The University is also a member of the Group of Eight Australian research-intensive universities.
The University’s campus hosts several research facilities. The University is also the first in Australia to offer numerous combination degrees that fast-track study to help students graduate with a bachelor’s and specialized centers’ degree in four years.
The University of Western Australia requires an overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each IELTS test band for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
8. The University of Adelaide
The University of Adelaide is a highly renowned public research university, and it is currently ranked 111th globally based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The University of Adelaide comprises five faculties, with each containing several constituent schools. The institution is consistently counted among the world’s leading institutions of learning and innovation.
The University of Adelaide requires an overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each IELTS test band for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
9. University of Technology Sydney
Ranked 143rd globally according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the University of Technology Sydney is a public research university formed in 1988 and regarded as one of the world’s leading young universities. The University boasts nine faculties and several schools offering both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. The University adopts research-inspired and integrated learning, and this provides academic rigor with cutting-edge technology to equip graduates for lifelong learning.
The University of Technology Sydney accepts an overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each IELTS test band for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
10. University of Wollongong
Based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the University of Wollongong is ranked among the 201st-250th best universities globally. It is a public research university established as an independent institution in 1975. The University has five faculties that have several schools for undergraduate and postgraduate studies under them.
Its teaching and research excellence constantly earns the institution global recognition.
The University of Wollongong has a minimum IELTS test score requirement of 6.0 for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
11. Curtin University
Curtin University is a public research university ranked among the 251st-300th best universities globally based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The institution is widely recognized for its diverse research areas and innovation towards benefiting people’s lives worldwide.
Curtin University accepts an overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each IELTS test band for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
12. The University of Newcastle
The University of Newcastle is a public university located in New South Wales. It is ranked among the 251st-300th best universities globally based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The University consists of three colleges and 20 schools that offer both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
The University of Newcastle Australia requires a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.0 with no less than 6.0 in each band for undergraduate studies and 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each band for postgraduate studies.
13. Macquarie University
Ranked 192nd globally according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, Macquarie University is a public research-intensive university located in Sydney, Australia. The University boasts Specialist learning and research excellence in arts, business, engineering, health, human sciences, medicine, and science.
The citadel of learning comprises four faculties and 35 departments that cater to both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Macquarie University accepts an overall IELTS test score of 6.5 for both undergraduate and graduate studies.
14. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) is a public research university currently ranked among the 301st -350th best universities globally based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Academic courses in RMIT are offered across four colleges and 15 schools. The University is also committed to incorporating sustainable environmental principles and practices into learning, teaching, research, and operational activities.
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology accepts a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each band for undergraduate studies and 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in each band for postgraduate studies.
15. Queensland University of Technology
According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the Queensland University of Technology is a public research university currently ranked 193rd globally. The University provides various online programs and diploma courses for flexible learning. In addition, the University has research collaborations with several leading institutes and organizations to facilitate advanced learning.
The Queensland University of Technology accepts a minimum IELTS test score of 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0.
16. Deakin University
Deakin University is a public university in Victoria, Australia. It is ranked among the 251st-300th best universities globally based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The University is also the 3rd highest rated worldwide for sport science.
The University comprises four faculties that are further divided into 14 schools for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. The University is widely recognized for its excellent teaching and facilities.
Deakin University accepts an overall IELTS test score of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5 for undergraduate students and 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 for postgraduate students.
17. Griffith University
Griffith University is a public research university in South East Queensland, Australia. The institution ranks among the 201st-250th best universities globally according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The University introduced Australia’s first degrees in Modern Asian Studies and Environmental Science and is highly renowned for its excellent teaching, research, and student engagement.
Griffith University accepts a minimum IELTS test score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0 for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
18. The University of Tasmania
Ranked among the 301st-350th best universities globally based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the University of Tasmania is a public research university and the 4th oldest University in Australia. The University offers several graduate and undergraduate programs across various disciplines, and it is also linked with specialist research institutes and cooperative research centers around Australia.
The University of Tasmania accepts a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5 for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
19. Swinburne University of Technology
The Swinburne University of Technology is a public and research-intensive university located in Melbourne, Australia. The Times Higher Education World University Rankings ranks the University among the 301st-350th best universities globally. The University has a reputation for quality education and world-class research, and it also partners with leading Australian and global organizations to offer students authentic workplace experiences.
The Swinburne University of Technology accepts a minimum IELTS overall score of 6.0 with no band less than 6.0 for undergraduate students and 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 for postgraduate students.
20. The University of South Australia
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings ranks the University of South Australia among the 301st-350th best universities globally. It is a research university located in South Australia. The University consists of seven academic units further divided into several study areas for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
The University of South Australia accepts a minimum IELTS test score of 6.0 for undergraduate students and 6.5 for graduate students.
Where Do Australian Universities Stand According to QS World University Rankings?
| World Ranking | Name of University | IELTS Requirement (Undergraduate) | IELTS Requirement (Postgraduate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 | The Australian National University | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| 37 | The University of Melbourne | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| 38 | The University of Sydney | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 43 | The University of New South Wales | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| 47 | The University of Queensland | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 58 | Monash University | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 93 | The University of Western Australia | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 108 | The University of Adelaide | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 133 | University of Technology Sydney | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 193 | University of Wollongong | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| 194 | Curtin University | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 197 | The University of Newcastle, Australia | 6.0 | 6.5 |
| 200 | Macquarie University | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 206 | Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology | 6.5 | 7.0 |
| 213 | Queensland University of Technology | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 283 | Deakin University | 6.0 | 6.5 |
| 290 | Griffith University | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 303 | University of Tasmania | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| 321 | Swinburne University of Technology | 6.0 | 6.5 |
| 326 | University of South Australia | 6.0 | 6.5 |
Which University Does Not Require IELTS in Australia?
Australian universities that do not require IELTS from international students include:
- University of Queensland.
- University of New South Wales.
- University of Adelaide.
- Macquarie University.
- Victoria University.
- The University of South Australia.
This list might look confusing since we’ve discussed most of these universities throughout this article. To clarify, most of these Australian universities are willing to admit students with or without the IELTS.
Australian universities that do not require IELTS, however, require International students to show that:
- They are citizens of one of the countries considered English-speaking countries.
- They have taken another standardized English test recognized by Australian universities.
- They can prove that they were taught in the English Language during their senior secondary school.
- They can prove that they have lived in a country or worked in an organization where English is the primary communication language.
Additional FAQs About IELTS Scores for Universities in Australia
What If I Cannot Meet The IELTS Requirements?
For students who do not meet the IELTS requirements for studying in Australia, some universities offer the option of enrolling in an intensive English language course offered at the university to improve English language proficiency. Some universities and institutes also offer English language foundation courses for international students to enroll in and boost their proficiency.
Is It Possible To Study In Australia Without IELTS?
Studying in Australia without IELTS is possible. Australian universities that have alternatives for students who have not taken the test include:
● The University of Queensland.
● University of New South Wales.
● The University of Adelaide.
● Macquarie University.
● Victoria University.
● The University of South Australia.
Can I Study in Australia With IELTS Band 5.5?
Although the minimum IELTS requirement for Australian Universities is 6.0, students with a band score of 5.5 may still be eligible to study in Australia. You can find the minimum IELTS score requirements for the major universities in Australia in this particular article. Also, the list of universities that accept IELTS band 5.5 and above can be found here.
