One of the requirements of general skilled migration is that the applicant must provide evidence of their English language competency.
HOW ARE POINTS AWARDED FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE COMPETENCY?
There are four levels:
- Functional. The requirement here is either an IELTS average score of 4.5 or evidence of studies in an English language. It is also the minimum requirement for secondary applicants.
- Competent. In this instance, you must achieve an IELTS average score of 6 or hold an approved passport. It is the minimum level of English language competency for any skilled migration visa but provides no points.
- Proficient. The requirement here is an IELTS average score of 7. This provides a score of 10 points.
- Superior. You English language competency will be qualified as ‘superior’ if you achiever an average score of IELTS score is an average of 8. This provides a score of 20 points.
HOW DO I GET MY ENGLISH LANGUAGE COMPETENCY TESTED?
IELTS is the most common test to validate your English language competency.
This test comprises four components:
- Reading.
- Writing.
- Listening.
- Speaking.
Generally an applicant must show a certain minimum score in each of the four components to meet the requirements for GSM (i.e. competent, vocational and proficient English).
If the score is less than the required number in any component, English language competency has not been sufficiently proven. In such a case, the applicant must re-sit all four components.