English language proficiency

Meeting the conditions of your offer

International students from non-English speaking backgrounds must meet Adelaide University’s minimum English language requirements to be admitted to a degree. You can demonstrate your level of English language proficiency by providing the results of an accepted English language test (e.g. IELTS, PTE) taken within the last two years prior to admission. 

English language entry requirements are specific to the degree you choose, and some degrees have higher English language requirements. This means the exact level of English language proficiency will depend upon the degree you are applying to. Adelaide University degree pages list an IELTS score for their English language requirements. Please visit your chosen degree page for more information.

Accepted tests:

  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Academic
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
  • Teaching of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – iBT
  • Cambridge C1 Advanced test (previously Cambridge English: Advanced CAE)
  • Cambridge C2 Proficiency test.

Other accepted English proficiency pathways:

  • Australian year 12 with a passing grade in recognised English as a Second Language or English Language subject
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma
  • Foundation program at another Australian university.
 

The table below lists the English language testing systems accepted by the University, and grades equivalent to IELTS. 

IELTS equivalent scores for accepted tests

Overall Scores

IELTS (Academic)*

6.0

6.5

7.0

7.5

8.0

8.5

9.0

TOEFL iBT

60

79

94

107

112

116

120

PTE

50

58

65

74

82

88

90

C1 / C2

169

176

185

191

200

205

209

OET^

C to C+

B

B

 -

3 A & 1 B

 -

 -

Subscores

IELTS (Academic)*6.06.5 7.07.58.08.5 9.0
TOEFL iBT (Speaking)18202324262830
TOEFL iBT (Reading)13192427293030
TOEFL iBT (Listening)12202427282930
TOEFL iBT (Writing)21242729303030
PTE50586574828890
C1 / C2169176185191200205209

Notes

English language test results are generally valid for two years prior to the date of commencement at Adelaide University.

*IELTS Academic includes IELTS Academic One Skill Retake, IELTS UKVI Academic.

^OET applies for Health Programs only. The scores in each band must be achieved in one sitting.

The English Language Centre (ELC) is Adelaide University’s preferred ELICOS provider. Visit the pathway providers page to find out more.

Adelaide University does not offer packaged programs with The Centre for English Language at the University of South Australia (CELUSA), but does accept CELUSA results.

For the Bachelor of Nursing, please refer to the table and information below for accepted English language testing systems, grades equivalent to IELTS, and Primary Language Pathway information.

You must have achieved the required minimum scores in one of the following English language tests and tests must be dated within 1 year of commencement

BACHELOR OF NURSING 

IELTS (Academic)

7.0

IELTS Subscores

7.0

TOEFL iBT

94

Speaking

23

Reading

24

Listening

24

Writing

27

PTE

65

PTE Subscores

65

C1 / C2

Not Accepted

ELC Package

Not Accepted

CELUSA

Not Accepted


Alternatively, you may be eligible for a Primary Language Pathway if:

a) English is your primary language; and

b) You have attended and satisfactorily completed at least six years of primary and secondary education taught and assessed solely in English in a recognised country*, including at least two years between years 7 and 12.

Notes

*Recognised countries are Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, United Kingdom, and USA.