The TOEFL iBT test will be unavailable for Australian visa purposes as ETS rolls out an “enhanced” test and waits for Australian authorities to review the new exam, the testing provider has confirmed to The PIE.

According to the Department of Home Affairs, the TOEFL iBT will no longer be offering English language tests for Australian visa purposes from July 26.

The enhanced version of the test, launched on July 25, is being reviewed by DHA and the test is not being accepted for visas during the evaluation.

ETS noted that it is not clear how long the review will take and emphasised that the test is still accepted by Australian universities.

There is no impact for other countries, such as the UK or Canada, where the test was recently approved by authorities for use in the Student Direct Stream.

The enhanced TOEFL iBT has “been designed to improve the test taker experience, reducing the test time and streamlining the registration process, while maintaining the rigour and reliability the test is known for”, Rohit Sharma, SVP of Global Higher Education and Workskills for ETS, noted.

“[The review is] part of a standard process the Department takes to evaluate English language tests”

“ETS has submitted the enhanced test to Australia’s Department of Home Affairs to be reviewed as part of a standard process the Department takes to evaluate English language tests. We commend the DHA for this thorough review which ensures that its high standards for measures of English proficiency are upheld.”

Test scores obtained from tests taken prior to July 26 will still be recognised for relevant visa sub-classes to Australia, the testing provider emphasised.

The test, which is also accepted by 100% of Australian universities and Australian education providers, can continue to be accepted for university admission purposes, it added.

Scores obtained both before and after July 26 can be used for admission purposes, ETS clarified.

“We are communicating directly with impacted stakeholders to share pertinent information and will continue to keep them apprised of updates as they are available,” Sharma added.

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