Teaching in Australia needs some of the highest IELTS scores of any profession, and the rules are about each skill, not your overall band. Here's what the national framework, AITSL, NSW and Victoria ask for.
The scores teachers need
| Skill | Minimum IELTS Academic score |
|---|---|
| Speaking | 8 |
| Listening | 8 |
| Reading | 7 |
| Writing | 7 |
This is the standard in AITSL's national Framework for Teacher Registration, and AITSL, NSW (NESA) and Victoria (VIT) all use these minimums. There's no overall band requirement: you must reach the minimum in every skill.
AITSL skills assessment (for migration)
- IELTS Academic only, on paper or on computer at a test centre.
- IELTS Online and IELTS Indicator are not accepted.
- Your scores must be on one Test Report Form. AITSL does accept One Skill Retake.
- The test must be taken in the 3 years before you apply.
Teacher registration in NSW and Victoria
- NSW (NESA): IELTS Academic (or ISLPR) taken in person, with the scores above, less than 3 years old.
- Victoria (VIT): IELTS Academic with the scores above. IELTS Online is not accepted. VIT's rules on combining tests and how old results can be have changed recently, so check VIT's website before you apply.
Other states and territories set their own rules, so check with your teacher regulator.
Not General Training. Teacher bodies accept IELTS Academic, not General Training. If you're also applying for a visa, see our General Training vs Academic for PR guide.
Getting to 8 in Speaking and Listening
Practise answering real questions out loud with free Speaking practice, learn how Speaking is marked, and check your Writing with the free Band Check.
Requirements change. Always confirm with AITSL or your state teacher regulator before you book.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS score do teachers need in Australia?
IELTS Academic with at least 8 in Speaking and Listening and at least 7 in Reading and Writing. There is no overall band requirement.
Does AITSL accept IELTS General Training?
No. AITSL accepts IELTS Academic only, taken on paper or computer at a test centre.
Does AITSL accept IELTS Online?
No. AITSL does not accept IELTS Online or IELTS Indicator.
Can teachers use IELTS One Skill Retake?
AITSL accepts One Skill Retake for its skills assessment. Check with your state regulator for registration.
How long are IELTS results valid for AITSL?
The test must be taken in the 3 years before you apply.