English language requirements
English language proficiency framework
Macquarie University requires applicants to provide evidence that their English language proficiency is appropriate for the linguistic demands of their intended course of study.
English proficiency descriptors and standards
The descriptors below outline the minimum levels of English proficiency required for entry to coursework and non-award courses at Macquarie University and the Macquarie University College with reference to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Minimum standards for entry to Macquarie University College courses
| Level of English | Description of English Proficiency Standard | Indicative CEFR Level |
|---|---|---|
| Functional |
| B1+ |
| Vocational |
| B2 |
Minimum standards for entry to Macquarie University courses
| Level of English | Description of English Proficiency Standard | Indicative CEFR Level |
|---|---|---|
| Competent |
| B2+ |
| Proficient |
| C1 |
| Advanced |
| Mid-C1 |
What level of English does my course require?
English requirements for your course are available on Coursefinder - these will be listed in terms of Academic IELTS scores:
- Students applying for Foundation or Diploma programs at the Macquarie University College will need to meet Functional or Vocational English (equivalent to an overall Academic IELTS of 5.5 or 6.0 respectively)
- Most undergraduate and postgraduate courses require Competent English (equivalent to an overall Academic IELTS of 6.5),
- Some courses, such as those in Law, Medicine, and Education, require either Proficient or Advanced English (equivalent to an overall Academic IELTS greater than 6.5).
| Level of English | Required for Admission To |
|---|---|
| Functional | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | Intensive Program, Undergraduate Certificates, or Diplomas |
| Competent | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | Undergraduate Courses Bachelor of Clinical Science Postgraduate Courses Doctor of Medicine |
| Advanced | Undergraduate Courses Bachelor of Education (Primary) Postgraduate Courses Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) |
How can I demonstrate my proficiency in English?
Macquarie University accepts a range of evidence to demonstrate your English language proficiency. This includes either:
- An approved English language proficiency test
- A recognised qualification with English as the language of instruction
- An approved Foundation Program
- A Macquarie University College English Language Program (ELP)
- Other approved English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programs
- Other approved evidence deemed to satisfy minimum standards
English language tests
The following section outlines English language proficiency tests accepted by Macquarie University and the minimum test scores required to satisfy English entry standards to various courses.
Accepted tests
The University recognises the following English language tests:
| Acronym | Full Name |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | International English Language Testing System: Academic version |
| TOEFL iBT | Test of English as a Foreign Language: Internet-based Test |
| PTE Academic | Pearson Test of English Academic |
| LanguageCert | LanguageCert Academic |
| C1A |
Cambridge English C1 Advanced (previously CAE or Cambridge English: Advanced) |
| C2P |
Cambridge English C2 Proficiency (previously CPE or Cambridge English: Proficiency) |
| OET | Occupational English Test |
And also the following online English test:
| Test Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | Accepted for applicants of Standard Foundation, Study Abroad and Exchange, and remote students where attending a test centre would result in hardship. |
| Accepted for admission into Transnational Education (TNE) programs on a case-by-case basis with the written approval of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic). |
The following online English tests are no longer recognised as of 1 May 2023:
- IELTS Indicator / IELTS Online
- TOEFL iBT Home Edition
- PTE Academic Online
Please note for TOEFL iBT: Only for tests taken from 5 May 2024, these results are valid for Australian visa purposes. Otherwise, any TOEFL iBT tests undertaken between 26 July 2023 to 4 May 2024 will not be accepted. See English language visa requirements.
Visa applicants should refer to the Document Checklist Tool to find out which documents need to be attached to their visa application and acceptable English language tests to satisfy the visa requirements.
Validity period
Unless otherwise specified, all English language test scores must be less than two years old at the date of course commencement at the University. Applicants with multiple tests in that period will have their single best test result considered.
Required Scores - Until 28 February 2026
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- LanguageCert Academic
- PTE
- Cambridge
- OET
- DET
IELTS
| IELTS Academic | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Functional | 5.5 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | 6.0 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Competent | 6.5 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | 7.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Editing and Electronic Publishing Graduate Certificate of Global Business Practice Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 7.0 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |
| Advanced | 7.5 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 8.0 | 8.0 |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
| Note: The University accepts test results submitted with the IELTS One Skill Retake | ||||||
TOEFL
| TOEFL iBT | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Functional | 66 | 10 | 16 | 9 | 14 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | 73 | 12 | 19 | 11 | 16 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Competent | 83 | 13 | 21 | 12 | 18 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | 94 | 13 | 21 | 12 | 18 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Editing and Electronic Publishing Graduate Certificate of Global Business Practice Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 94 | 19 | 24 | 20 | 20 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| 98 | 24 | 27 | 24 | 23 |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |
| Advanced | 105 | 24 | 27 | 28 | 26 |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
LanguageCert
| LanguageCert Academic** | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Macquarie University College | ||||||
| Functional English | 54 | 44 | 45 | 41 | 54 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational English | 61 | 54 | 56 | 49 | 62 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Macquarie University | ||||||
| Competent English | 67 | 60 | 64 | 57 | 70 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient English | 73 | 60 | 64 | 57 | 70 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Editing and Electronic Publishing Graduate Certificate of Global Business Practice Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 73 | 65 | 71 | 62 | 76 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| 73 | 71 | 78 | 67 | 82 |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |
| Advanced English | 81 | 71 | 78 | 80 | 89 |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
|
* For admission to some clinical courses in medicine and health professions, additional criteria regarding test sitting may be required.
Criteria should be clearly outlined within the admission requirements for any relevant courses. ** Tests must be taken at an official test centre. The online version is not accepted. | ||||||
PTE
| PTE Academic | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Functional | 45 | 41 | 41 | 41 | 41 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | 52 | 46 | 46 | 46 | 46 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Competent | 58 | 52 | 52 | 52 | 52 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | 66 | 52 | 52 | 52 | 52 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Editing and Electronic Publishing Graduate Certificate of Global Business Practice Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 66 | 58 | 58 | 58 | 58 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| 66 | 66 | 66 | 66 | 66 |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |
| Advanced | 75 | 66 | 66 | 82 | 82 |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
Cambridge
| Cambridge English (C1A or C2P) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Functional | 162 | 154 | 154 | 154 | 154 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | 169 | 162 | 162 | 162 | 162 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Competent | 180 | 169 | 169 | 169 | 169 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | 185 | 169 | 169 | 169 | 169 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Editing and Electronic Publishing Graduate Certificate of Global Business Practice Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 185 | 176 | 176 | 176 | 176 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| Not accepted |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |||||
| Advanced | 191 | 185 | 185 | 200 | 200 |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
OET
| Occupational English Test (OET) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Functional | - | C | C | C | C | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | - | C | C | C | C |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Competent | - | C+ | C+ | C/C+ | C/C+ | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | - | B | B | C+ | C+ |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Editing and Electronic Publishing Graduate Certificate of Global Business Practice Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| - | B | B | C+ | C+ |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| - | B | B | B | B |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |
| Advanced | - | B | B | A | A |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
DET
| Duolingo English Test (DET) – Accepted for applicants for Standard Foundation, Study Abroad and Exchange, and remote students where attending a test centre would result in hardship. Accepted for admission into Transnational Education (TNE) programs on a case-by-case basis with the written approval of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic). | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Macquarie University | ||||||
| Functional English | 100 | 90 | 90 | 85 | 85 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational English | 115 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Macquarie University College | ||||||
| Competent English | 125 | 110 | 120 | 110 | 110 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient English | 135 | 110 | 120 | 110 | 110 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 135 | 120 | 135 | 120 | 120 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| Not accepted |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |||||
| Advanced English | Not accepted |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) | ||||
Required Scores - From 1 March 2026
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- LanguageCert Academic
- PTE
- Cambridge
- OET
- DET
IELTS
| IELTS Academic | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Functional | 5.5 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | 6.0 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Competent | 6.5 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | 7.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 7.0 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| 7.0 | 7.0 | 6.5 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |
| Advanced | 7.5 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 8.0 | 8.0 |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
| Note: The University accepts test results submitted with the IELTS One Skill Retake | ||||||
TOEFL
| TOEFL iBT old scoring table | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Functional | 66 | 10 | 13 | 9 | 16 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | 73 | 12 | 16 | 13 | 18 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Competent | 86 | 18 | 20 | 17 | 20 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | 95 | 18 | 20 | 17 | 20 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 95 | 22 | 23 | 20 | 23 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| 95 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 25 |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |
| Advanced | 107 | 24 | 26 | 28 | 28 |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
| TOEFL iBT new scoring scale | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Functional | 3.5 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | 4 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 3.5 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Competent | 4.5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| 5 | 5 | 4.5 | 5 | 5 |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |
| Advanced | 5.5 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 6 |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
LanguageCert
| LanguageCert Academic** | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Macquarie University College | ||||||
| Functional English | 54 | 44 | 45 | 41 | 54 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational English | 61 | 54 | 56 | 49 | 62 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Macquarie University | ||||||
| Competent English | 67 | 60 | 64 | 57 | 70 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient English | 73 | 60 | 64 | 57 | 70 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 73 | 65 | 71 | 62 | 76 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| 73 | 71 | 71 | 67 | 82 |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |
| Advanced English | 81 | 71 | 78 | 80 | 89 |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
|
* For admission to some clinical courses in medicine and health professions, additional criteria regarding test sitting may be required.
Criteria should be clearly outlined within the admission requirements for any relevant courses. ** Tests must be taken at an official test centre. The online version is not accepted. | ||||||
PTE
| PTE Academic | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Functional | 46 | 41 | 40 | 39 | 38 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | 52 | 47 | 50 | 46 | 46 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Competent | 60 | 51 | 55 | 50 | 54 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | 68 | 51 | 55 | 50 | 54 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 68 | 56 | 64 | 55 | 66 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| 68 | 66 | 73 | 66 | 76 |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |
| Advanced | 76 | 66 | 73 | 72 | 88 |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
Cambridge
| Cambridge English (C1A or C2P) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Functional | 162 | 154 | 154 | 154 | 154 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | 169 | 162 | 162 | 162 | 162 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Competent | 180 | 169 | 169 | 169 | 169 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | 185 | 169 | 169 | 169 | 169 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Editing and Electronic Publishing Graduate Certificate of Global Business Practice Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 185 | 176 | 176 | 176 | 176 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| Not accepted |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |||||
| Advanced | 191 | 185 | 185 | 200 | 200 |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
OET
| Occupational English Test (OET) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Functional | - | C | C | C | C | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational | - | C | C | C | C |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Competent | - | C+ | C/C+ | C+ | C/C+ | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | - | B | C+ | B+ | C+ |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| - | B | C+ | B | C+ |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| - | B | C+ | B | B |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |
| Advanced | - | B | B | A | A |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
DET
| Accepted for applicants for Standard Foundation, Study Abroad and Exchange, and remote students where attending a test centre would result in hardship. Accepted for admission into Transnational Education (TNE) programs on a case-by-case basis with the written approval of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic). | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level of English | Overall | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking | For Admission To |
| Macquarie University | ||||||
| Functional English | 100 | 90 | 90 | 85 | 85 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational English | 115 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 |
Intensive Program Diploma Masters Qualifying Program |
| Macquarie University College | ||||||
| Competent English | 125 | 110 | 120 | 110 | 110 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient English | 135 | 110 | 120 | 110 | 110 |
Graduate Diploma of Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Health Leadership Master of Health Leadership |
| 135 | 120 | 135 | 120 | 120 |
Bachelor of Clinical Science Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Studies Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| Not accepted |
Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Physiotherapy Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Clinical Neuropsychology Master of Clinical Psychology Master of Organisational Psychology Master of Professional Psychology Master of Speech and Language Pathology | |||||
| Advanced English | Not accepted |
Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) | ||||
Qualification with English as the Language of Instruction
The University may accept as meeting English proficiency requirements:
- Recognised qualifications from specified English-speaking countries or regions where English was the language of instruction; or
- Qualifications from other countries with English as an approved subject.
Note: The University reserves the right to request an English language test from any applicant.
Validity period
Recognised qualifications may only be considered if they were successfully completed within five (5) years of the date the applicant will start their course at Macquarie University.
This limitation period does not apply to applicants who:
- Meet the minimum institutional English language requirements AND can show evidence that they have continuously resided in an English-speaking country or region since the completion of their English studies until commencing studies at Macquarie University; or
- Completed their secondary studies in English under the GCE Advanced (A-Levels), Advanced Subsidiary (AS-Levels) and Ordinary Levels (O-Levels / GCSE), or International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum with the required results.
Qualifications from specified English-speaking countries or regions
Applicants may satisfy English proficiency requirements for a course based on successfully completed senior secondary and/or tertiary qualifications taught and assessed solely in English from a recognised country as follows:
| Level of English | Qualification | Recognised Countries or Regions |
|---|---|---|
| Functional, Vocational, or Competent English | Completion of at least two years of senior secondary or one year of full-time tertiary study in a recognised country or region. | American Samoa, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Botswana, Canada, Cameroon, Cook Islands, Dominica, Falkland Islands, Fiji, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Grenada, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Maldives, Mauritius, Namibia, Nauru, New Zealand, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland), United States of America, Vanuatu, Zambia, Zimbabwe |
| Proficient and Advanced English | Completion of a senior secondary or tertiary qualification which includes a minimum of 2 years of study taught and assessed entirely in English in a recognised Anglophone country or region. The qualification must have been completed within 3 years of the date the applicant will start their course at Macquarie University. | Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland), or the United States of America |
Qualifications from other countries with English as an approved subject
| Issuing country or region | Qualification name | Level of English | Minimum subject requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Various | International Baccalaureate (IB) | Functional English |
English A Literature or English A Language and Literature at Standard or Higher Level, OR Grade 3 in English B at Standard or Higher Level |
| Vocational English |
English A Literature or English A Language and Literature at Standard or Higher Level, OR Grade 3 in English B at Higher Level, OR Grade 4 in English B at Standard Level | ||
| Competent English |
Grade 4 in English A Literature or English A Language and Literature at Standard or Higher Level, OR Grade 4 in English B at Higher Level, OR Grade 5 in English B at Standard Level | ||
| Proficient English |
Grade 5 in English A Literature or English A Language and Literature at Higher Level, OR Grade 6 in English A Literature or English A Language and Literature at Standard Level | ||
| Advanced English |
Grade 6 in English A Literature or English A Language and Literature at Higher Level, OR Grade 7 in English A Literature or English A Language and Literature at Standard Level | ||
| Austria |
Maturity Certificate (Reifexeugnis / Reifeprufungszeugnis / Matura / Maturazeugnis Austrian High School Diploma) | Functional, Vocational, or Competent English |
GPA of 2 (Gut/Good) in English from the last three years - Grading key is from 5 (lowest) to 1 (highest), so students must achieve a 1 or 2 to meet the requirement |
| Canada | High School / Senior Secondary Diploma | Functional English |
Alberta – 50% in English Language Arts 30 British Columbia – 50% in English Studies 12 Ontario – 50% in ENG4C or ENG4U Other provinces – 50% in equivalent Grade 12 English subject |
| Vocational English |
Alberta – 60% in English Language Arts 30 British Columbia – 60% in English Studies 12 Ontario – 60% in ENG4C or ENG4U Other provinces – 60% in equivalent Grade 12 English subject | ||
| Competent English |
Alberta – 70% in English Language Arts 30 British Columbia – 70% in English Studies 12 Ontario – 70% in ENG4U Other provinces – 70% in equivalent Grade 12 English subject | ||
| Proficient English |
Alberta – 80% in English Language Arts 30 British Columbia – 80% in English Studies 12 Ontario – 80% in ENG4U Other provinces – 80% in equivalent Grade 12 English subject | ||
| Advanced English |
Alberta – 90% in English Language Arts 30 British Columbia – 90% in English Studies 12 Ontario – 90% in ENG4U Other provinces – 90% in equivalent Grade 12 English subject | ||
| Denmark | Studentereksamen | Functional or Vocational English | B level English |
| Competent English |
Grade 7 in B level English, or Grade 4 in A level English | ||
| Undergraduate degree | Competent English | Diploma Supplement or a separate document from home institution stating the language of instruction for the entirety of the program is English | |
| Finland | Finland Upper Secondary School Certificate | Functional, Vocational, or Competent English | Grade of 8 in English unit |
| Germany | Abitur or DAAD | Competent English |
Minimum grade of 3 (6 point scale) or 7 (15 points scale) in English (Englisch) in the final 2 years of the Abitur OR Minimum top two scores in all 3 sections on DAAD |
| Abitur | Functional or Vocational English | Minimum grade of 4 (6 point scale) or 5 (15 point scale) in English (Englisch) in the final 2 years of the Abitur | |
| DAAD | Functional or Vocational English | Minimum top two scores in all 3 sections | |
| Fachhochschulreife | Functional or Vocational English | Minimum grade of 3 in the final year | |
| Fachhochschulreife and DAAD | Competent English |
Minimum grade of 2 in the final year of the Fachhochschulreife AND Minimum top two scores in all 3 sections on DAAD | |
| Hong Kong | Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) | Functional English |
Top half of cohort from a band 1 and band 2 school, or Top third of cohort from a band 3 and band 4 school, or HKDSE English Level 2, Writing Level 2 |
| Vocational English | Level 3 in English | ||
| Competent English | Level 4 in English | ||
| Proficient English | Level 5* in English | ||
| Advanced English | Level 5** in English | ||
| Iceland | Studentsprof | Functional, Vocational, or Competent English | Grade of 6.0 in English |
| Malaysia | SPM | Functional, Vocational, or Competent English | Grade C in 1119 English Language |
| STPM | Functional, Vocational, or Competent English | Grade C in 920 English in Literature | |
| Malaysian Independent Chinese Secondary Schools Unified Examination | Functional, Vocational, or Competent English | Grade B5 in English | |
| Netherlands | VWO (pre-university education) | Functional, Vocational, or Competent English | Overall score of at least 7 in English |
| HAVO | Functional, Vocational, or Competent English | Overall score of at least 7 in English (after at least 1 year of university education) | |
| Norway | Vitnemal | Functional English | English: 3 |
| Vocational English | English: 3 | ||
| Competent English | English: 4 | ||
| Undergraduate Degree | Competent English | Diploma Supplement or a separate document from home institution stating the language of instruction for the entirety of the program is English | |
| Singapore | Singapore-Cambridge O-Levels | Functional English | Grade C in English |
| Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-Level | Vocational English | Grade D in English | |
| Competent English |
Grade B/C in Humanities Subjects, or Grade C in English | ||
| Sweden |
Avgangsbetyg / Slutbetyg (Upper Secondary School Leaving Certificate) | Functional or Vocational English | Grade D in English 6 |
| Competent English | Grade C in English 6 | ||
| Undergraduate Degree | Competent | Diploma Supplement or a separate document from home institution stating the language of instruction for the entirety of the program is English | |
| Switzerland | Swiss Matura | Functional, Vocational, or Competent English | Grade 5 in English |
| United Kingdom | GCE A-Levels | Functional or Vocational English | Grade D in English |
| Competent English |
Grade C in English, or Grade C in Humanities Subjects, including but not limited to: History, Humanities, Philosophy, Critical Thinking, Politics, Law, Religion, Sociology, Psychology | ||
| Proficient English | Grade A in English | ||
| Advanced English | Grade A* in English | ||
| GCE AS-Levels | Functional English | Grade D in English | |
| Vocational English | Grade C in English | ||
| Competent English | Grade B in English | ||
| Proficient English | Grade A in English | ||
| GCSE | Functional English | Grade D in English | |
| Vocational English | Grade C in English | ||
| Competent English |
Grade C for English as a first language, OR Grade C for English as a second language, OR Grade 5 (Strong Pass) GCSE English | ||
| United States of America | Advanced Placement Exams (awarded by the College Board) | Functional English |
Grade 2 in AP English Language and Composition, OR Grade 2 in AP English Literature and Composition |
| Vocational English |
Grade 3 in AP English Language and Composition, OR Grade 3 in AP English Literature and Composition | ||
| Competent English |
Grade 3 in AP English Language and Composition, OR Grade 3 in AP English Literature and Composition | ||
| Proficient English |
Grade 4 in AP English Language and Composition, OR Grade 4 in AP English Literature and Composition | ||
| Advanced English |
Grade 5 in AP English Language and Composition, OR Grade 5 in AP English Literature and Composition |
Approved Foundation Program
The University accepts the following Australian foundation programs for purposes of meeting Functional, Vocational, or Competent English proficiency requirements:
| Provider and Course | Level of English | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Macquarie University Foundation or Intensive Program | Functional or Vocational | n/a |
| Competent | Completion | |
| ANU College Foundation Studies Program | Functional or Vocational | 50% in English |
| Competent | 65% in Academic English or Advanced Academic English | |
| Monash College Foundation Year | Functional or Vocational | 50% in English 1 and 2 |
| Competent | 65% in English | |
| University of Adelaide College Foundation Studies | Functional or Vocational | 50% in English for Academic Purposes (EAP) |
| Competent | C | |
| University of Melbourne – Trinity College Foundation Studies | Functional or Vocational | 50% in English for Academic Purposes (EAP) |
| Competent | 65% in English for Academic Purposes (EAP) | |
| University of Queensland – IES College Foundation Year | Functional or Vocational | 50% in English for Academic Purposes (EAP) |
| Competent | 65% in Academic English for University Studies | |
| University of Sydney – Taylors College Foundation Program | Functional or Vocational | Grade D in English A and B |
| Competent | C | |
| University of Western Australia – Taylors College Perth Foundation Program | Functional or Vocational | 50% in Academic English A and B |
| Competent | 65% in English | |
| UNSW Global Foundation Program (Standard and Transition) | Functional or Vocational | Grade D in Academic English |
| Competent | C+ | |
| Western Australian Universities’ (TISC) Foundation Program | Functional or Vocational | 50% in English Language and Australian Culture Studies (ELACS) |
| Competent | 65% in English Language and Culture Studies (ELACS) | |
| UTS College Foundation Studies Program | Functional or Vocational | 50% in Foundation or Advanced English 1 and 2 |
| Competent | Credit (65%) in English |
MQ College English Language Program (ELP)
Applicants who do not meet English Language requirements, but who otherwise meet academic entry requirements for a course, may be issued a packaged offer of study that includes an English Language Program (ELP) at the Macquarie University College. These programs enable students to meet English entry requirements to most courses at Macquarie University.
| Level of English | MQ College ELP Program | Requirement | For Admission To |
|---|---|---|---|
| Functional |
English Language Program |
Minimum of Pass in the overall score and Pass in Writing | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational |
English Language Program |
Minimum of Pass in the overall score and Pass in Writing | Intensive Program, Undergraduate Certificates, or Diplomas |
| Competent | Direct Entry Program |
Minimum grade of Pass in the Overall Score | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
| Proficient | Direct Entry Program |
Minimum grade of Credit in the Overall Score |
Master of Business Administration Graduate Certificate of Business Administration Graduate Diploma of Business Administration |
| Direct Entry Program |
Minimum grade of Credit in the Overall Score |
Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science Bachelor of Laws Juris Doctor Master of Creative Writing | |
| Direct Entry Program |
Minimum grade of Credit in the Overall Score and a Credit in the Integrated Writing and Integrated Speaking Components |
Master of Clinical Audiology Master of Speech and Language Pathology Graduate Certificate of Early Childhood | |
| Advanced | Direct Entry Program |
Minimum grade of Distinction in the Overall Score and a Distinction in the Integrated Speaking Component |
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Education (Primary) and Bachelor of Psychology Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education) Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years) Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary) |
Other approved English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program
The University also accepts other English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programs from selected providers for the purpose of meeting English language requirements for courses requiring up to Competent English proficiency.
A successfully completed EAP program will only be considered if it has been completed within one year prior to the date the applicant will commence the course at Macquarie University. Unless otherwise specified, only CRICOS-registered AEP programs completed onshore in Australia are recognised.
| Provider and Course | Location | Level of English | Program and requirement | For admission to |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Universal English College (UEC) | Australia | Functional English | Academic English program 2 AEP2 Pass | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational English | Academic English Program 2 (AEP2) Credit or | Intensive Program, Undergraduate Certificate, or Diploma | ||
| Academic English Program 3 (AEP3) Pass | ||||
| Competent English | Academic English Program 3 (AEP3) with a Credit | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses | ||
| English Language Company | Australia | Functional English | Intensive EAP & IELTS Preparation – Level Achieved EAP1 | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational English | Intensive EAP & IELTS Preparation – Level Achieved EAP2 | Intensive Program, Undergraduate Certificate, or Diploma | ||
| Competent English | Intensive EAP & IELTS Preparation – Level Achieved EAP3 | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses | ||
| Greenwich English College | Australia | Functional English | English for Academic Purposes (EAP) with a Pass | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational English | English for Academic Purposes (EAP) with a Pass | Intensive Program, Undergraduate Certificate, or Diploma | ||
| Competent English | English for Academic Purposes (EAP) with a Credit | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses | ||
| UTS College | Australia, China, Indonesia, Korea, Myanmar, and Vietnam | Functional English | Academic English 3 (AE3) with a Pass | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational English | Academic English 4 (AE4) with a Pass | Intensive Program, Undergraduate Certificate, or Diploma | ||
| Competent English | Academic English 5 (AE5) with a Pass (includes programs delivered offshore in China, Indonesia, Korea, Myanmar, and Vietnam) | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses | ||
| Western Sydney University College | Australia | Functional English | English for Academic Purposes 3 (EAP3) with a Pass | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational English | English for Academic Purposes 4 (EAP4) with a Pass | Intensive Program, Undergraduate Certificate, or Diploma | ||
| Competent English | English for Academic Purposes 5 (EAP5) with a Pass | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses | ||
| Navitas English | Australia | Functional English | Academic English 2 60% overall | Standard Foundation Program |
| Vocational English | Academic English 3 60% overall | Intensive Program, Undergraduate Certificate, or Diploma | ||
| Competent English | Academic English 4 60% overall | Most undergraduate or postgraduate courses |
Other approved evidence
On a case-by-case basis, the University may accept other documentary evidence as meeting minimum English proficiency requirements up to the level of Competent English.
Note: The University reserves the right to request an English language test from any applicant.
| Level of English | Evidence | Approved Countries or Regions |
|---|---|---|
| Functional, Vocational, or Competent |
Documentary evidence of at least five years' residency in an approved English-speaking country or region. Certified documentation (either a passport or visa) must be provided to support evidence of an applicant's residency. If employed during this period, work reference letters on official organisational letterhead should be provided. Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis. | American Samoa, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Botswana, Canada, Cameroon, Cook Islands, Dominica, Falkland Islands, Fiji, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Grenada, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Maldives, Mauritius, Namibia, Nauru, New Zealand, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland), United States of America, Vanuatu, Zambia, Zimbabwe |