English language requirements

All international students must demonstrate that their current level of English language proficiency meets The University of Queensland's minimum entry requirements.

To meet the University’s English language proficiency requirements, international applicants must demonstrate one of the following:

• a score equivalent to four semesters with a minimum grade of Sound Achievement in Queensland Authority English. Please refer to the English – Queensland Year 12 equivalents table.
• at least 6.5 overall and a minimum of 6.0 in each sub-band of IELTS (or equivalent test as given in the table below) for applications received on or after 1 January 2012 for commencement in 2013. (A different requirement applies to applications received prior to that date.) Some programs have higher English proficiency requirements – please refer to the Programs and Courses website. TOEFL test results are not accepted for these programs.

English - alternative tests and scores

The minimum IELTS and TOEFL scores required for admission to undergraduate, postgraduate and research programs at the University are indicated in this table:

*This applies to applications received on or after 1 January 2012 for commencement in 2013. A different requirement applies to applications received prior to that date.

A list of other qualifications which satisfy the University’s minimum English language proficiency requirements is outlined in the University's policy, English Language Proficiency Admission Requirements for University Programs . Details are given in the Procedures section under section 12. 

Documentation required

Test validation

English language tests and examination results will only be considered if not more than two years have elapsed between the date of the test or final examinations and the date of commencement of study at The University of Queensland.

Academic equivalency

Applicants demonstrating their equivalent score of four semesters with a minimum grade of Sound Achievement in Queensland Authority English must attach certified copies of all academic transcripts and award certificates to the application.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test

Applicants demonstrating their English proficiency with an IELTS test score must attach a copy of the IELTS test result to the application. Information regarding the IELTS test may be obtained from:

• UQ's official Educational Representatives
• IELTS
• IDP Education Australia offices
• British Council
• Australian Diplomatic Missions

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

Applicants demonstrating their English proficiency with a TOEFL test score must organise for UQ to receive an original copy of an official TOEFL score report.

Please ask the Educational Testing Service to send the Official Score Report directly to The University of Queensland, Institution Code 0987. Note that the University does not accept institutional TOEFL tests.

Further information on the TOEFL test may be obtained from the  TOEFL website.

English language studies and IELTS at UQ

If you want to increase your English proficiency or do not meet the minimum English language requirements, the University's Institute of Continuing & TESOL Education (ICTE-UQ) can help you. 

View English Pathways to UQ for more information.

Student visa requirements

Students who satisfy the University’s English language proficiency requirements may still need to meet additional student visa requirements for English proficiency, as required by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).

DIAC will shortly be able to accept the following English language test options for student visa application purposes:

• TOEFL in all countries
• Pearson Test of English Academic (Pearson) in all countries
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) from Cambridge ESOL (Cambridge) in all countries

Equivalency scores for TOEFL, Pearson and Cambridge are being finalised and will be announced shortly.

Test results from these alternative test providers (or in the case of TOEFL, from applicants in countries other than the 14 previously specified) will not be accepted for student visa purposes until after this process has been completed. This is expected to be in place later this year.

For more information, students should check with their local Australian Diplomatic Mission or the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

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