There has been an official announcement of English language requirements for the subclass 500 and subclass 485 visas, which apply to all subclass 500 and subclass 485 visa applications lodged on or after 23 March 2024, specifically:

For student visa (visa 500):

• • IELTS: 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent).
  • Minimum score for the English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS): increased from IELTS 4.5 to 5.0 (or equivalent).
  • No IELTS requirement for students who are only enrolled in the ELICOS (English Language) course.

For 485 visa:

IELTS: increase from 6.0 to 6.5 (or equivalent) with a minimum score of 5.5 for each test section (reading, writing, speaking and listening)
In addition, the IELTS certificate will only be valid for 1 year from the date of application for the 485 Visa.