Quick answer
As of pricing last checked 24 March 2026, the standard IELTS Academic or General Training test in Australia costs AUD 490, IELTS for UKVI is AUD 505, and IELTS One Skill Retake is AUD 310, with no separate registration or late-payment fee. For Australian visas, the Department of Home Affairs requires band 6.0 in each of the four skills for Competent English, band 7.0 for Proficient English and band 8.0 for Superior English; Proficient and Superior levels can add points on the skilled migration points test, so check the current official points table for the exact figures, since these can change.
IELTS fees in Australia in 2026
Pricing last checked 24 March 2026 lists the standard IELTS Academic or General Training test in Australia at AUD 490, with no separate registration fee, payment processing fee or late-payment fee. IELTS for UKVI is listed at AUD 505 and IELTS One Skill Retake at AUD 310.
These figures are a planning reference, not a replacement for checkout. Fees can be slightly higher in some regional locations, so confirm the exact amount for your city and test type in the official booking screen before paying.
- IELTS Academic or General Training: AUD 490
- IELTS for UKVI: AUD 505
- IELTS One Skill Retake: AUD 310
- No separate registration or late-payment fee
- Pricing checked: 24 March 2026
Competent, Proficient and Superior English
The Department of Home Affairs defines three English levels for visa purposes, each requiring the same band in every one of the four skills — Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. These pages set the visa-eligibility requirement itself; the points table for skilled migration visas is a separate official page, and the points awarded for each level can change, so check it directly before relying on a specific number.
The Superior English requirement currently applies to tests taken on or after 7 August 2025. If your test predates that change, confirm with the Department of Home Affairs which rules apply to your result.
| English level | IELTS band required (each of 4 skills) | Typical relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Competent English | 6.0 | Baseline requirement for many skilled and student visas |
| Proficient English | 7.0 | Can add points on the skilled migration points test |
| Superior English | 8.0 | Can add more points on the skilled migration points test |
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Choose the correct IELTS product before paying
Academic and General Training are scored on the same band scale and, for the Department of Home Affairs' English-level definitions, are treated the same way. A university course usually asks for Academic, while a skilled migration or work visa route may accept either, so confirm the requirement with your visa subclass or institution before booking.
IELTS for UKVI is a UK-specific product, not an Australian visa requirement; most Australia-bound candidates should book standard IELTS Academic or General Training unless a specific route says otherwise.
How to register for IELTS in Australia
Start on the official IDP Australia or British Council Australia booking page. Choose the correct test, city and session; enter your personal details exactly as they appear on the identification document you will use; then check the test type, venue, date and total fee before payment.
After paying, keep the confirmation email and reference number. Check the full message rather than assuming the main test date covers every appointment, because your Speaking slot can have its own time.
- Confirm which IELTS test and band level your visa or institution requires
- Use an official provider website
- Enter your identity details exactly
- Review the city, date, test type and final price
- Save the confirmation email and reference number
Book backwards from your real deadline
Start with the date by which your visa application, university or employer must receive the result. Work backwards to allow for the result window, score submission and a possible retake. The nearest available session is not necessarily the safest choice, especially if you need Superior English in every skill.
Take a timed diagnostic before booking. If one skill is well below the required band, choose a date that leaves enough time for focused practice and feedback. Use Nektar's IELTS study guides for preparation, but return to the official provider for every booking, fee and availability check.
Frequently asked questions
How much is IELTS in Australia in 2026?
Pricing last checked 24 March 2026 lists standard IELTS Academic or General Training at AUD 490, IELTS for UKVI at AUD 505, and IELTS One Skill Retake at AUD 310, with no separate registration or late fee.
What IELTS band do I need for Superior English?
The Department of Home Affairs requires band 8.0 in each of Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking for Superior English, applying to tests taken on or after 7 August 2025.
Does Proficient English give migration points?
Proficient English (band 7.0 in each skill) and Superior English (band 8.0 in each skill) can both add points on the skilled migration points test. Check the official points table for the current number of points each level adds, since this can change.
Do I need IELTS Academic or General Training for Australia?
It depends on your visa subclass or institution. A university course usually asks for Academic, while some skilled migration routes accept either. Confirm the exact requirement before you book.