Extension: temporary acceptance of additional English language tests

22 Jul 2022

National Boards are now accepting the TOEFL iBT® Home Edition test for applications received until 21 February 2023.

COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns have disrupted many English language tests and made it difficult for some applicants to use the English language test pathway to meet National Boards English language skills registration standards.

In response, earlier this year the National Boards established a temporary policy accepting the following additional language tests for a limited time:

• the OET computer-based test and the OET@home test for applications received until 21 February 2023, and
• the TOEFL iBT® Home Edition for applications received until 1 June 2022.

National Boards have now updated this temporary policy which means that, along with the OET computer based and OET@home tests, the TOEFL iBT® Home Edition will also be accepted, for applications received until 21 February 2023.

All other requirements set out in the National Boards English language skills registration standards still apply. There are no changes to any other requirements in the standards, including minimum test scores.

All National Boards are currently reviewing their English language skills registration standards and will consult widely on any proposed changes.

The use of remote proctoring for English language tests for registration is relatively new, even though this is widely used in education settings. Boards will consider these additional test modes in their review and will look at the approaches of other similar regulators, available evidence, and the details of the security arrangements in place.

For more information

• See the relevant National Board’s website for the English language skills registration standard.
• The following pages on the Ahpra website contain useful information for applicants:
  • English language skills registration standards
  • COVID-19 updates
• For registration enquiries: 1300 419 495 (within Australia) +61 3 9285 3010 (overseas callers).