Below are the latest developments in international education, employment trends, and IELTS-related updates for April 2025.
The Latest IELTS News
The confusion over writing instruments in the paper-based IELTS test continues. While IDP’s official site still confirms that both pen and HB pencil are permitted for the Writing section, social media posts from earlier this year suggested a “Pen-Only Policy” for all paper-based sections from January 25, 2025.
Until official clarification is issued, candidates are advised to practise using both pencil and black pen to ensure flexibility on test day.
IELTS UKVI Fee Increase
From April 10, 2025, IELTS for UKVI (Academic and General Training) has seen a £15 fee increase in the UK, taking the total to £215. This change affects students applying through student visa routes, including for foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes.
Those planning to sit IELTS for UKVI should double-check fee changes in their own countries, as similar adjustments may be underway.
Upcoming IELTS Test Dates
If you’re aiming to sit the exam soon, here are the paper-based test dates for May:
- May 3, 2025: Academic and General Training
- May 10, 2025: Academic only
- May 16, 2025: Academic only
- May 31, 2025: Academic and General Training
As always, book early to avoid missing out on your preferred date.
Global Study and Work Trends
🇦🇺 Australia: Visa Fee Increases and Stricter Immigration Measures
- Student Visa Fee Hike: The ruling Labor Party has proposed increasing international student visa fees from A$1,600 to A$2,000 if re-elected. The opposition suggests even steeper hikes, up to A$5,000 for top-tier universities.
- Caps on International Student Enrolments: Labor plans to cap new international student enrolments at 270,000 in 2025, while the opposition favours a stricter limit of 240,000.
- English Language Requirements: The government has tightened English language requirements for student and graduate visas, emphasising the importance of IELTS scores for applicants.
- Work and Holiday Visa Program: The 2025 application process includes a requirement for functional English proficiency, typically demonstrated by an IELTS General Training score of at least 4.5. The program also accepts IELTS One Skill Retake results.
🇨🇦 Canada Adjustments to Immigration Targets and Processing Times
- Reduction in Immigration Targets: Canada plans to reduce the number of new permanent residents to 395,000 in 2025, down from 485,000 in 2024. Temporary resident numbers will also decrease by about 30,000.
- Express Entry Category-Based Draws: The 2025 Express Entry system will focus on candidates with Canadian work experience and those with strong French language skills or experience in health care, trades, and education sectors.
- Processing Time Updates: As of April 2025, processing times have improved for several categories. For instance, the citizenship grant process has been reduced from 9 months to 8 months, and new PR card processing times have decreased from 16 days to 14 days.
🇬🇧 UK
The UK government is actively considering significant reforms to the Graduate visa route as part of its broader strategy to reduce net migration. While no official changes have been implemented yet, several proposals are under discussion:
Proposed Changes to the Graduate Visa
- Requirement for Graduate-Level Employment: International graduates may soon need to secure a graduate-level job to remain in the UK post-study. This contrasts with the current system, which allows graduates to stay for up to two years (or three years for PhD holders) without the need for a job offer.
- Minimum Salary Thresholds: There are discussions about setting salary requirements for post-study work eligibility, with figures ranging between £30,000 and £40,000 annually. This aims to ensure that only those in high-skilled roles can extend their stay.
These proposed changes have led to internal disagreements within the government. The Home Office supports stricter regulations to curb migration, while the Department for Education and university representatives express concerns about potential negative impacts on the higher education sector, which benefits significantly from international student contributions.Current Status
As of now, the Graduate visa remains unchanged. International students who have completed an eligible UK degree can stay for up to two years (or three years for PhD graduates) without needing a job offer.
However, this visa is non-renewable and does not count toward settlement. Graduates wishing to remain in the UK long-term must switch to a different visa category, such as the Skilled Worker visa, which has its own set of requirements, including salary thresholds and employer sponsorship .
A Final Thought
April has shown us one thing: English remains the global gateway to education and work opportunities. Whether you’re aiming for study in Australia, a healthcare role in the UK, or long-term settlement in Canada, your IELTS preparation is more valuable than ever.
We’ll keep you updated with verified developments and advice.
See you in May!