In March 2025, AHPRA’s English Language Skills Registration Standard underwent significant updates that are set to benefit many internationally trained healthcare professionals. Here’s a summary of what’s changed.
Key Changes to Accepted English Language Tests
AHPRA has relaxed the minimum writing scores across several English proficiency tests. In most cases, candidates can now score slightly lower in the writing component, provided they meet higher standards in the other three areas: listening, reading, and speaking. This change aims to reduce barriers for competent healthcare professionals, particularly international medical graduates, without compromising patient safety.
We’ve outlined the updated test requirements below:
| AHPRA’s English Language Tests – Update (March 2025) | ||
| Test | Previous requirements | Updated requirements |
| IELTS (Academic Module) | ✔ Minimum overall score: 7 ✔ Minimum score of 7 in all four components (Listening, Reading Writing and Speaking) | ✔ Minimum overall score: 7 ✔ Minimum score of 7 in three components (Listening, Reading and Speaking) ✔ Minimum score of 6.5 in Writing |
| OET | ✔ Minimum score of B in all four components (Listening, Reading Writing and Speaking) | ✔ Minimum score of B in three components (Listening, Reading and Speaking) ✔ Minimum score of C+ in Writing |
| PTE Academic | ✔ Minimum overall score: 65 ✔ Minimum score of 65 in all (Listening, Reading Writing and Speaking)
| ✔ Minimum overall score: 66 ✔ Minimum score of 66 in (Listening, Reading and Speaking) ✔Minimum score of 56 in Writing |
| TOEFL iBT | ✔ Minimum overall score: 94 ✔ Following minimum score in each section of the test: 24 for listening 24 for reading 27 for writing 23 for speaking | ✔ Minimum overall score: 94 ✔ Following minimum score in each section of the test: 24 for listening 24 for reading 24 for writing 23 for speaking |
| Cambridge (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency) | Not previously accepted | ✔ Minimum overall score: 185 ✔ Minimum score of 185 in Listening, Reading, Speaking ✔ Minimum score of 176 in Writing |
Why the Update to AHPRA’s English Language Standard Is a Positive Move
These changes marks a significant step forward in recognising the real-world language needs of healthcare professionals. For many, the writing component has historically been the most difficult section to pass—often delaying registration even when candidates demonstrate strong communication skills in clinical environments.
AHPRA’s English language standard:
- Acknowledges the practical communication needs of healthcare roles, where verbal and comprehension skills are critical.
- Removes unnecessary barriers for competent doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals trained overseas.
- Expands options by accepting Cambridge English tests for the first time, giving applicants greater flexibility in choosing a test that suits them best.
- Continues to prioritise patient safety, as high standards remain in listening, reading and speaking—core to effective communication in healthcare.
If you’re an overseas-trained GP or healthcare professional considering registration in Australia, this update could make the process easier and faster. It allows you to focus your preparation more efficiently and gives you more choice in which test to sit.
At Alecto Australia, we’re across all updates to AHPRA’s English Language requirements and can help you navigate the changes. From choosing the right test to preparing for registration, our experienced team is here to support your journey every step of the way.
Unsure how these changes affect your plans to work in Australia? We’re happy to help. Alecto specialises in placing GPs and healthcare professionals across the country—and we know what it takes to succeed.
- Get tailored advice on English testing and registration
- Find GP job opportunities in DPA locations
- Receive end-to-end support through the AHPRA registration process
Get in touch today at [email protected] to explore your options and make your move to Australia a reality.