Didn’t get the IELTS results you were hoping for? Unfortunately, this is a disappointment many people face.
With most Australian migration or working visas, there are strict rules surrounding your English language capabilities.
For example, for a Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457), the basic requirement states that you must score a minimum of 5.0 in each component of an IELTS test.
For 457 Australian working visa you will not be required to demonstrate your English language abilities if:
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Your salary is above the English language requirement exempt amount (96,400 AUD per annum)
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You are a holder of a passport from Canada, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom or the United States of America
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You have fulfilled a minimum of five years uninterrupted full-time study within a secondary or higher education institution where the primary teaching language was English.
For SkillSelect or a General Skilled Migration Visa, you will be able to earn extra points towards your eligibility for a visa the higher your IELTS score is. For example, if you score 7.0 in each component, you can earn an extra 10 points.
If you didn’t score as high as you wanted or needed, there are steps you can take to better your score on your next attempt.
Taking the test repeatedly will not improve your results. You can start to improve your next results by thinking about the following:
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How did you prepare for your test? Can you improve your pre-test study plan to focus your mind before you test?
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Were there some sections of the test that confused you? Perhaps you can find an English tutor, sign up for a short English course or do some more self-study before your next test.
There are resources online available that helps you prepare for your next IELTS test. You may sit a practice test on the IELTS website. This will give you an idea of some of the things you need to be ready for.
To better your writing skills, perhaps you can take to the internet and write a blog about your favourite hobbies which might be fishing, sewing or cricket. Ask for advice from your English speaking friends on your writing skills and you may also receive comments from readers of your blog that will help you to understand the correct writing styles.
To better your reading skills, perhaps you would consider spending the morning relaxing in the local library reading through some educational, funny or bizarre books. You can quietly read to yourself out-loud or in your head.
To improve your speaking skills, you may like to join a community group such as a book club, sporting club or debate group. This will help you become a more active English speaker and will help you to work on your pronunciation and confidence when speaking.
Make sure you prepare before booking for your next test. When you’re ready, there are no restrictions how many tests you can take and how soon after you take a test, you book and sit for another test.
For more information on IELTS and the IELTS scores you need for certain visas, please contact ONE derland Consulting by visiting our website, www.onederland.com.au, email us at [email protected] or give us a call at +61 (08) 9477 5831.
