Temporary Graduate 485 Visa: Updated English Language Rules Explained
- Jasmeet Kaur
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
For international students in Australia, the Temporary Graduate Subclass 485 Visa is often the first step toward gaining valuable work experience and building a long-term future in the country. This visa allows graduates to remain in Australia temporarily after completing their studies and provides opportunities to gain local work experience, which is highly regarded by employers.
However, one of the most important criteria applicants must meet is the 485 Visa English Requirements. The Australian Government recently updated the rules surrounding English language proficiency, making it vital for students, graduates, and potential migrants to stay up to date. In this blog, we’ll break down the updated English requirements, explain which tests are accepted, and highlight how a migration consultant can help you successfully apply for the 485 visa.
What is the Temporary Graduate 485 Visa?
The Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) Visa is designed for international students who have completed at least two years of study in Australia. It allows them to live, study, and work in the country temporarily. There are two main streams:
Graduate Work Stream – For graduates with skills and qualifications closely related to an occupation on Australia’s skilled occupation list.
Post-Study Work Stream – For international students who completed a higher education degree in Australia.
While the eligibility criteria vary slightly depending on the stream, one requirement remains constant: demonstrating adequate English language ability.
Why English Proficiency Matters
Strong English skills are essential for living, studying, and working in Australia. The Department of Home Affairs requires applicants to prove their proficiency to ensure they can integrate into the workplace and broader community. The updated 485 Visa English Requirements reflect Australia’s focus on maintaining high communication standards across industries.
Updated 485 Visa English Requirements
As of recent changes, the Department of Home Affairs has clarified and adjusted the English language rules for the 485 visa. Here’s what applicants need to know:
1. Accepted English Tests
Applicants must provide evidence of English proficiency through one of the following recognized tests:
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test)
Cambridge C1 Advanced Test
Occupational English Test (OET) – specific to healthcare professionals
2. Minimum Score Requirements
The general score requirements under the updated rules are:
Test | Overall Score Requirement | Minimum per Skill/Component |
IELTS | 6.0 overall | 5.0 in each band (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) |
PTE Academic | 50 overall | 36 in each skill |
TOEFL iBT | 64 total | 4 in Listening & Reading, 14 in Writing & Speaking |
Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) | 169 overall | 154 in each skill |
OET | – | At least a ‘B’ grade in each component |
3. Validity of Test Results
Your English test must have been taken within 3 years of the date of your 485 visa application. Older results will not be accepted.
4. Exemptions
Applicants from certain English-speaking countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland may be exempt from providing test results. However, most international students will need to sit for one of the approved tests.
Common Mistakes Applicants Make
Many students fail to secure their 485 visa due to simple errors with their English language evidence. Some common mistakes include:
Submitting expired English test results
Confusing academic and general IELTS requirements
Not achieving the minimum band score in all components
Choosing the wrong visa stream and attaching irrelevant documents
These errors can result in visa refusal and unnecessary delays in starting your post-study career in Australia.
How a Migration Consultant Can Help
Applying for the 485 visa can be complex, especially with changing rules and strict timelines. This is where the expertise of a migration consultant becomes invaluable.
A registered migration consultant can:
Assess your eligibility and explain the updated 485 Visa English Requirements
Guide you in selecting the right English test and achieving the required scores
Ensure your documents, test results, and application forms meet the Department of Home Affairs standards
Help you avoid costly mistakes that could lead to visa refusal
Provide tailored advice if you are close to the deadline for applying after your graduation
With professional guidance, you can increase your chances of securing the 485 visa smoothly and on time.
Tips to Meet the English Requirements
If you’re preparing for the English proficiency test, here are a few tips to boost your success:
Start Early – Don’t wait until your graduation is complete; book your test in advance.
Practice Regularly – Use official practice materials for IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
Focus on Weak Areas – If writing or speaking is challenging, dedicate extra time to improve those skills.
Consider Professional Training – Many institutes in Australia offer short courses focused on test preparation.
Consult a Migration Expert – If unsure about which test suits you best, seek advice from a migration consultant before applying.
Final Thoughts
The Temporary Graduate Subclass 485 Visa is a golden opportunity for international students to gain valuable work experience and build their future in Australia. However, meeting the 485 Visa English Requirements is non-negotiable. With updated rules in place, it’s essential to choose the right test, achieve the required scores, and submit your results within the validity period.
Given the complexities, seeking guidance from an experienced migration consultant can make your application process stress-free and significantly improve your chances of success.
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