�� Key Changes at a Glance

Queensland’s Education Queensland International (EQI) has announced significant adjustments to English language entry requirements for international students applying to primary and secondary schools, effective July 14, 2025.

 

---

 

�� Policy Changes by Education Stage

1️⃣ Primary School (Prep – Year 6)

✅ Years 1–5: No changes – Still no English test required for direct entry26.
⚠️ Year 6 (NEW RULES):

 

Must provide English test results (IELTS, Duolingo, or IDAT) OR complete an English preparatory course.

No mid-year intake – Only Term 1 (January) starts allowed.

New accepted tests: Duolingo & IDAT added alongside IELTS2.

2️⃣ High School (Years 7–12)

�� Higher English benchmarks:

Year Level	Old IELTS	New IELTS	Alternatives (Duolingo/IDAT)
Year 7	4.0	4.5	TBA
Year 8	4.0	4.5	TBA
Year 9	4.5	5.0	TBA
Year 10	5.0	5.5	TBA
Year 11	5.5	6.0	TBA

�� Note: Duolingo/IDAT score equivalents to be confirmed by EQI6.

 

---

 

⏳ Critical Deadlines

�� Before July 13, 2025:

Year 6 applicants can still enroll without English tests for 2026 Term 1.

High school applicants follow old IELTS standards.

�� From July 14, 2025:

Stricter rules apply – Plan language tests early!

 

---

 

�� Our Recommendations

1️⃣ Act Now! Submit complete applications by July 13 to avoid new requirements.
2️⃣ Year 6 families: Consider IELTS/Duolingo/IDAT tests if applying after July 14.
3️⃣ High school applicants: Check if your child meets the higher IELTS 4.5–6.0 (or equivalent).
4️⃣ Monitor EQI updates for preparatory course details (if language scores are borderline).

 

---

 

�� Why Queensland?

96 top public schools in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns & more2.

No entrance exams (except elite academies)6.

Strong ESL support via HSP (High School Preparation) courses2.

Need help? Contact us for tailored application strategies!