LanguageCert vs IELTS for Australia 2026: New Alternative to IELTS

LanguageCert vs IELTS for Australia is the newest comparison Indian students must consider in 2026. Since August 7, 2025, LanguageCert Academic has been officially accepted for ALL Australian visa types, joining IELTS as an approved English language test. For the first time, Indian applicants can choose between three major tests — IELTS, PTE, and now LanguageCert — for Australian student visas, graduate visas, and permanent residency. This LanguageCert vs IELTS for Australia comparison from EEC covers score equivalency, fees, test format, validity, and practical recommendations for Indian students targeting Australia in 2026.

LanguageCert Academic: Australia's Newest English Test Option

The Australian Department of Home Affairs approved LanguageCert Academic on August 7, 2025, making it the newest addition to Australia's list of accepted English tests. This approval covers ALL visa subclasses requiring English proficiency — from Subclass 500 (Student) to Subclass 189/190 (Skilled Independent PR). While IELTS has been the standard for Australian immigration for decades, LanguageCert brings fresh competition with notable advantages: 3-year validity (vs IELTS's 2 years), on-demand scheduling, and dual UK/Australia acceptance.

For the complete picture of LanguageCert's Australian visa coverage, read our LanguageCert for Australia visa guide. For LanguageCert's UK coverage, see which LanguageCert for UK visa.

Score Comparison Table

Fee Comparison

IELTS is approximately ₹4,000 cheaper per test, but LanguageCert's 3-year validity means you are less likely to need a retest, potentially saving money in the long run. For Indian applicants on tight budgets, LanguageCert fee details and education loan for Australia can help with financial planning.

Pros and Cons for Australia-Specific Applications

LanguageCert Academic — Pros for Australia

• 3-year validity — extra year for PR processing timelines
• Dual-destination — also accepted for UK visas (if applying to both)
• Flexible scheduling — book when ready, no waiting for monthly dates
• Fast results — 3–5 working days
• Less saturated — potentially easier to book preferred dates

LanguageCert Academic — Cons for Australia

• Newer test — less practice material available online compared to IELTS
• Fewer test centers in India compared to IELTS
• Slightly higher fee — US$240 vs ₹16,250 for IELTS
• Less familiar to immigration agents and employers

IELTS Academic — Pros for Australia

• Decades of acceptance — universally recognized and trusted
• 50+ test centers in India — accessible from almost any city
• Abundant free resources — practice tests, YouTube tutorials, sample answers
• Lower fee — ₹16,250

Which Should You Choose?

Choose LanguageCert Academic if: You need 3-year validity for PR processing, you're also applying to the UK, you prefer computer-recorded speaking, or you need fast results (3–5 days).
Choose IELTS Academic if: You prefer face-to-face speaking, you're in a smaller Indian city with no LanguageCert center, you want abundant free practice material, or you're comfortable with IELTS from prior preparation.

EEC Coaches Both Tests

EEC offers coaching for both LanguageCert and IELTS, so your choice of test does not limit your coaching options. Our trainers can even help you decide which test suits your profile better. Explore LanguageCert online coaching or IELTS coaching at EEC. You might also consider PTE coaching for Australia PR as a third option — see our complete LanguageCert complete guide for all alternatives, or book a free consultation to get a personalized recommendation.

Study in Australia with EEC Counseling

Beyond test preparation, EEC provides comprehensive Australia study abroad counseling — university shortlisting, application filing, visa documentation, scholarship guidance, and pre-departure briefing. EEC also handles complete visa services for Australia. This service is FREE at every EEC branch for students enrolled in any coaching program. Book free Australia counseling today. Also explore LanguageCert vs IELTS for UK if you are considering both destinations, or check LanguageCert preparation tips to start preparing. Need help with finances? See education loan for Australia.

“With LanguageCert now accepted for Australian visas, Indian students have more choice than ever. The 3-year validity is a game-changer for anyone on the PR pathway — it eliminates the pressure of retesting mid-process.”

— EEC Australia Immigration Specialist, EEC Education Consultant

FAQs — LanguageCert vs IELTS for Australia