What is the IELTS Requirement for Secondary School Teacher in Australia?

Undoubtedly, teaching is a rewarding profession, especially in a country like Australia, where education is highly valued. So, if you’re planning to become a secondary school teacher in Australia, you must meet certain eligibility criteria.

 

One of the key requirements is demonstrating your proficiency in the English language. The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) accepts only IELTS scores to verify your English language proficiency.  

 

Learn about the IELTS requirements for secondary school teacher in Australia, along with other essential aspects of becoming a teacher, in this blog.

 

English Language Requirements for Secondary School Teacher

To get an AITSL skills assessment, you need to prove your English language skills. You can do this in two ways:

 

• By scoring the required points in the academic IELTS test. 
• Or by studying in certain English-speaking countries. 

 

Here is the step-by-step detail of each option. 

 

IELTS Requirement for Secondary School Teacher in Australia

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardized test that measures your English language skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. 

 

It is important to meet the IELTS requirements for candidates, especially those coming from non-English-speaking backgrounds. 

 

Here is a list of the minimum IELTS score that you must have to become a secondary school teacher in Australia: 

 

Component	IELTS score
Overall band score	A minimum score of 7.0.
Reading	A minimum score of 7.0.
Writing	A minimum score of 7.0.
Listening	A minimum score of 8.0.
Speaking	A minimum score of 8.0.

 

Study Option Details for Demonstration of English Language Proficiency

You can also meet the English requirement through your education if you have completed your studies in one of these six English-speaking countries: 

 

Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, or the USA.

 

Moreover, your qualifications must meet the following criteria:

 

• Your qualification must be at least one year of full-time study.
• It should be equivalent to an Australian bachelor’s degree or higher.
• You must have completed 4 years of study duration in these countries, which must include a recognized teacher education qualification. This means your studies must include practical teaching experience.

 

For instance, if you studied at a university in Canada and completed your teaching degree there, you may not need to take the IELTS if your education was entirely in English and you met the necessary criteria.

 

Can a PhD be considered towards the study option of the English language criteria?

 

If you have a PhD from one of the six countries, it can count as two years of study towards the four-year requirement. However, you still need to have your initial teacher education completed in one of those English-speaking countries.

 

Can an applicant include evidence to meet both the study and academic IELTS options of the English language criteria?

 

You should only provide evidence for either the study option or the IELTS test; not both. However, if AITSL is unsure about your English level, they may ask you to take the IELTS test.

 

Can I take other tests instead of IELTS?

No, AITSL only accepts scores from the Academic IELTS test. Other tests like PTE or TOEFL are not accepted.

 

Can I retake just one part of the IELTS?

Yes, AITSL accepts the IELTS One Skill Retake, where you can retake only one part of the test if needed.

 

Does AITSL accept the IELTS Online and Indicator tests?

AITSL does not accept online or indicator versions of the IELTS test. Only tests taken at official IELTS test centres are valid.

 

What if I submit a fake IELTS score?

If AITSL finds out that your IELTS score is not real (for example, if it’s from a testing centre that isn’t approved), they will reject your application and inform the Department of Home Affairs. It’s important to ensure that you go to a legitimate testing centre.

 

Can I re-sit the IELTS after being rejected?

No, if AITSL rejects your application because of an invalid IELTS score, you cannot submit a new score for three years.

 

Therefore, make sure to follow all guidelines and use legitimate testing centres to avoid issues with your application.

 

Educational Requirements to Become a Secondary School Teacher in Australia

To become a secondary school teacher in Australia, you must meet specific qualifications and assessment criteria set by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL). 

 

Here is the breakdown of academic qualifications. Have a look.

 

• You need to complete a minimum of four years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) higher education. This includes obtaining a recognized initial teacher education qualification.

 

• Your qualification should cover secondary education and include subjects relevant to your interests and future goals. 

 

• You must have at least 45 days of supervised teaching practice with students aged 13 to 18. This experience is important as it helps you gain practical skills and understand classroom dynamics.

 

Final Thoughts

Becoming a secondary school teacher in Australia is an exciting journey. However, you must meet certain requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs and AITSL.  Moreover, careful planning and preparation is essential to increasing chances of success. 

 

However, if you are confused and don’t know how to apply to become a secondary school teacher in Australia, contact us at The Migration.  We’ll help you in choosing the right visa category by assessing youe skills, age, qualifications and work experience at affordable rates. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

What is the minimum IELTS score for teachers in Australia?

To become a teacher in Australia, you need to demonstrate your English language skills through the IELTS . The minimum scores required are:

• Overall Band Score: 7.5
• Reading: 7.0
• Writing: 7.0
• Listening: 8.0
• Speaking: 8.0

 

What qualifications do I need to be a secondary school teacher in Australia?

To become a secondary school teacher in Australia, you need to complete the following:

 

• You typically need a Bachelor of Education (Secondary), which usually takes four years to complete. 
• Your degree must include at least 45 days of supervised teaching practice.
• You must undergo a skills assessment by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL).

 

Are secondary school teachers in demand in Australia?

Yes, secondary school teachers are in demand in Australia, especially Math and Science teachers. Moreover, there is also an increasing demand for teachers willing to work in regional areas of Australia.

 

Can I teach in Australia with a 3-year teaching degree?

Usually, a 3-year teaching degree alone may not be sufficient to qualify you as a secondary school teacher in Australia. Most states require at least a 4-year Bachelor of Education degree or an equivalent qualification including teaching practice.

 

However, if you have completed a 3-year degree in another field and then pursue additional qualifications like a Graduate Diploma or Master of Teaching, you could qualify to teach.