Study in Australia without IELTS: 7 alternative ways
Australia is among the most popular destinations for international students to pursue their higher studies. While aiming for it, IELTS becomes a prime concern as many students believe that it is a tough test to crack. They might feel that it is an obstacle in their path.
Many students wonder if they can study in Australia without this IELTS hassle. Well, the answer is yes, as there are many universities that accept international students without IELTS. Also, you will find various alternative ways and tests for IELTS.
If you can convince the institute that you are proficient in English, then you are good to go! In this informative blog, you will explore how you can study in Australia without IELTS in an extensive manner. So, let’s go.
How to study in Australia without IELTS?
IELTS is nothing more than a test that will showcase your proficiency in English. There are various alternative ways to study in Australia without IELTS. Here are some of the ways mentioned:
- There is a programme called International Baccalaureate, which is a 2-year diploma course. Upon completion of this programme, you may be exempted from the IELTS requirement.
- If English was the official language in the country where you finished your last education, then IELTS may not be mandatory.
- Suppose you can showcase evidence of work experience in an English-speaking organisation for a minimum of 5 years. In that case, you no longer have to take the IELTS test for the University of Queensland.
- Pathway programmes are available in some Australian universities that provide a direct pathway to the programme without the need for an IELTS exam.
- IELTS might be optional if you have studied English as a course subject in your previous institution.
- If you possess a letter from your earlier institution stating that you are proficient in English, then it might work as well.
- Some universities in Australia offer pre-sessional English courses, and upon completion, IELTS might be optional.
Alternative tests that will help you study in Australia without IELTS
There are various alternative English language assessments that will do just fine to prove your English proficiency. Given below is a list of some alternative tests of IELTS:
The Pearson Test of English (PTE): It is a computer-based proficiency test that evaluates your English language skills. It has three versions: PTE Academic, General, and Young Learners. It assesses all four language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
The university prefers academic or general. PTE is held several times a year. The standard score is 50-70 to secure your spot in a university. The score may vary by institution.
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The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): It is the second most popular test after IELTS. It is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It has two formats: the internet-based test (IBT) and the paper-based test (PBT). The most common test is IBT. You can take the PBT exam four times a year and the IBT exam over 50 times a year.
It measures all four sections: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Each section has 30 points, which means 120 points in total. You’ll have to aim for 70 to 90 to secure a spot in the university. For some research programmes, you may have to score higher.
- Cambridge English Qualifications: Developed by Cambridge Assessment English, it is an internationally recognised test conducted by Cambridge University. It also has four sections like others. For higher study purposes, students have to partake in A2 Key, B1 Preliminary, B2 First, C1 Advanced, and C2 Proficiency exams.
- Medium of Instruction (MOI): It is the medium/language used in teaching. If your MOI is English, then it will be referred to as English-medium instruction (EMI). If your MOI was English in your previous institution, then many universities in Australia might waive the requirements of the IELTS test, as your MOI in English proves that you’re proficient in English.
- English as a Second Language (ESL): Many organisations provide ESL courses to improve students’s overall English proficiency. Completing this programme from a well-recognised institution may waive the need for an IELTS test. This course offers flexible timing from part-time to full-time.
Top universities in Australia for international students without IELTS
Some well-known universities in Australia accept international students without IELTS. A list of some of the universities is given below:
- The University of Queensland
- The University of Adelaide
- Victoria University
- Macquarie University
- Bond University
- University of Southern Queensland
- UNSW Sydney
- University of South Australia
- Swinburne University of Technology
- Australian National University
- Deakin University
Cheapest universities in Australia for international students without IELTS
Studying abroad always indicates a great deal of money. However, there are some affordable universities in Australia for international students where IELTS is optional. Below is the list of some of the universities:
- Swinburne University of Technology
- The University of Queensland
- The University of Adelaide
- The University of Southern Queensland
- Bond University
- The University of South Australia
- Macquarie University
- The University of New South Wales
- Victoria University
On a final note
Well, it looks like we have hit the bottom, and yes, you can definitely study in Australia without IELTS. Remember, English is just a language, and your goal is just to prove your English proficiency. IELTS is not the only medium that can prove this; there are others. We hope this blog was helpful to you and that you will achieve great things in the future.
FAQ's
Is it possible to study in Australia without IELTS?
Yes, it’s possible, as there are many universities in Australia that accept international students without IELTS.
Can I go to Australia for study without IELTS?
Of course, you can apply for a student visa in Australia without IELTS if you meet the English language proficiency requirements.
Is IELTS mandatory for Australia?
IELTS is the most popular test for immigrants, but it is not mandatory. The Australian government wants you to showcase your English proficiency, and IELTS is not the only medium for it.
Can I get Australian PR without IELTS?
Sure, you can, as there are many alternative tests to IELTS. As long as you meet their requirements to showcase your English proficiency, you're good to go.