New English Language Requirements 2025: What Nurses Need to Know

Effective March 18, 2025, significant changes to English language skills requirements make it easier for qualified nurses to register in Australia.

Key Changes at a Glance

Change	Details
Recognized countries	Expanded from 7 to 30
Writing score	Reduced to IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent)
New test option	Cambridge English added
South Africa	No longer recognized (12-month transition)

Expanded Recognized Countries

The list of countries where English-speaking qualifications may exempt you from testing has grown significantly from 7 to 30 countries.

Previously Recognized (7):

• Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, UK, USA

Now 30+ Countries including many additional nations where English is an official language or primary language of instruction.

What This Means for You

If you trained or have extensive residence in one of the newly recognized countries, you may no longer need to sit an English language test.

Lower Writing Score Requirement

The accepted writing score has been reduced:

Test	Previous Writing Score	New Writing Score
IELTS	7.0	6.5
OET	B	B
PTE	65	58
TOEFL iBT	24	21

This change acknowledges that writing is often the most challenging component for many nurses while maintaining patient safety standards.

New Test Option: Cambridge English

Cambridge English language tests are now accepted alongside:

• IELTS Academic
• OET (Occupational English Test)
• PTE Academic
• TOEFL iBT

South Africa Transition

South Africa is no longer a recognized English-speaking country for registration purposes. However:

• A 12-month transition period applies
• Nurses with pending applications are accommodated
• Those who met requirements before March 2025 may still qualify

Which Test Should You Choose?

IELTS Academic

• Pros: Widely available, well-known
• Cons: Two-year validity, all-or-nothing scoring
• Best for: General preparation, many test centers

OET (Occupational English Test)

• Pros: Healthcare-specific content, familiar scenarios
• Cons: More expensive, less frequent
• Best for: Nurses who prefer clinical context

PTE Academic

• Pros: Computer-based, quick results (48 hours)
• Cons: Less familiar format for some
• Best for: Those comfortable with computer testing

Cambridge English

• Pros: New option, lifetime validity
• Cons: Less established for healthcare
• Best for: Those with Cambridge preparation

Required Scores Summary (2025)

Test	Overall	Listening	Reading	Writing	Speaking
IELTS	7.0	7.0	7.0	6.5	7.0
OET	B	B	B	B	B
PTE	65	65	65	58	65

Tips for Meeting Requirements

1. Check If You're Exempt First

Before booking a test, verify if your qualifications or residence history exempt you under the expanded country list.

2. Target Your Weakest Area

With the reduced writing requirement, focus preparation on other components if writing is your strength.

3. Consider Test Format

Choose a test that matches your preparation style and timeline.

4. Book Early

Popular test dates fill quickly, especially for OET.

5. Combine Scores (If Allowed)

Some pathways allow combining scores from multiple test sittings—check specific requirements.

Transition Arrangements

If you had a pending application during the change period (December 2024 – March 2025):

• Your application will be assessed under the most favorable standard
• You may have 30 days from March 18, 2025 to apply for additional flexibility

Impact on Your Application

These changes aim to "reduce red tape for qualified practitioners" while maintaining safety standards. If you were previously borderline or struggling with English requirements, the new standards may work in your favor.

Ready to Prepare?

GdayNurse offers English language preparation support alongside our nursing exam courses:

• OET-focused healthcare English
• Writing skills improvement
• Practice tests and feedback

Start Your Preparation

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Information based on AHPRA announcement March 2025. Verify current requirements with AHPRA and the Nursing and Midwifery Board.