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IELTS for New Zealand
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most popular English language test for work, study, and migration in New Zealand. More than 11,500 organisations trust IELTS as a reliable indicator of true-to-life ability to communicate in English. IELTS assesses a test taker’s English language proficiency across four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
IELTS is widely recognised by colleges, universities, organisations, and the visa department in New Zealand. Here is all you need to know about IELTS:
- The IELTS exam covers all four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
- The overall band score must be more than or equal to 5.5 in all four skills
- If you are a student, you must submit a certified declaration of this score in New Zealand
New Zealand stands as an exceptional study destination, boasting 7 esteemed universities ranked among the world's top 500 institutions. Acquire globally recognised qualifications and invaluable skills that will serve you for a lifetime. New Zealand's commitment to excellence is evident, as all its universities rank among the top 3% globally (QS World University Rankings), assuring you of a remarkable standard of education.
Available on paper and computer
Faster results with IELTS on Computer
Accepted by most institutions
Test for study, work and migration
Why do more International Students Choose IELTS for Studying in New Zealand?
IELTS has always been popular among students and working professionals who want to study in New Zealand. Here are some of the reasons:
- Choose a module of your choice: IELTS is offered in two formats – pen and paper and computer-delivered. You can opt for the format that suits you the most
- Face-to-face speaking test: This is a more efficient way of evaluating as a real-life trained examiner is there to talk to you than a machine
- Frequency of the exam: IELTS is offered up to 4 times a month for paper-based up to 7 days a week and 3 times a day for computer-delivered format
- Faster results: Results for the computer-delivered exam are out within 3-5 days
Study level wise IELTS Requirement to Study in New Zealand
Here is a study level wise IELTS requirement for you to study in New Zealand:
| Category | Diploma course | Bachelors' degree | Post-graduate diploma | Graduate Diploma | Masters' degree |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum score | 6 | 6 | 6.5 | 6 | 6.5 |
| Individual score | 5.5 | 5.5 | 6 | 5.5 | 6 |
Minimum IELTS Requirements of the Top Universities in New Zealand
There are a total of 8 universities in New Zealand, and all are ranked in the most prestigious rankings of the world such as the QS World University Ranking and Times Higher Education Ranking.
Here are the IELTS requirements of all the Kiwi universities:
| S. No. | Universities | IELTS Overall | IELTS Listening | IELTS Reading | IELTS Writing | IELTS Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Auckland University of Technology | 6 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| 2 | Lincoln University | 6 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| 3 | Massey University | 6 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| 4 | University of Canterbury | 6 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| 5 | University of Otago | 6 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| 6 | University of Waikato | 6 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| 7 | Victoria University of Wellington | 6 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| 8 | University of Auckland | 6 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
*Minimum IELTS score accepted, the requirement varies with the course, hence do check when applying
Student Visa to Study in New Zealand
The most sought visa option for those aspiring to study in New Zealand is the student visa, granting the privilege to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during studies and full-time during holidays. To apply for the student visa, you are required to demonstrate financial sufficiency with at least NZ$1,250 for each month of your intended stay in the country.
The process of getting a student visa involves a fee of approximately NZ$330, and the visa duration aligns with the length of the course you have enrolled in. Once in New Zealand, you can extend your visa by renewing it, which involves paying the fee again and registering for a new course.
As an applicant from India, your immigration cost and receiving centre fee will depend on the kind of submission you make – online or paper.
| Type of submission | Application cost | Receiving centre fee |
|---|---|---|
| Online | $230 | $24 |
| Paper | $330 | $17 |
Do check the latest fee when applying here.
Note: These fees may vary as per the city from where you are applying. Check for your city
Remember, securing an offer of place from an approved education provider, and specifying the course's name and duration is a prerequisite before applying for the student visa. Prepare yourself for an enriching educational experience in the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand.
IELTS Score for New Zealand Student Visa
You must score a 5.5 band on the IELTS Academic test to be eligible for a New Zealand student Visa. Most universities and colleges require a Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letter of Recommendation (LOR), higher secondary mark sheets, graduation certificates, etc.
IELTS for Working in New Zelanad
Although attaining a Permanent Residency (PR) might be your ultimate goal, you'll need to fulfil a requirement of residing in New Zealand for a minimum of 2 years before becoming eligible for consideration. Fortunately, there are several pathways available to pave your way towards permanent residency.
One option is the academic path, which enables you to advance towards a post-study work visa, granting you the opportunity to stay in New Zealand for up to 3 years. Another route involves exploring different work categories, including the skilled migrant and business categories, which offer potential avenues to achieve your PR aspirations.
Let’s look at the types of visas you can apply for in detail.
1. Postgraduate Study Visa
Upon graduating from an approved New Zealand institution, an exciting opportunity awaits as you become eligible to apply for a post-study work visa. This special visa allows you to extend your stay in New Zealand for a duration of 1, 2, or 3 years.
Having this visa provides you with ample time and flexibility to work in various roles and for any employer within New Zealand, setting the stage for your journey towards the 2-year milestone, crucial for your Permanent Residency (PR) application.
The best part is, that you need not worry about proving your English proficiency separately, as it would already be considered during the evaluation of your Fee-Paying Student Visa application. This seamless process streamlines your transition from being a student to an aspiring professional in New Zealand.
2. Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
The Skilled Migrant Category presents an exceptional opportunity for you to establish a fulfilling life in New Zealand, granting indefinite residence and the possibility of attaining permanent residency. To start this journey, an essential step is to achieve an overall IELTS score of 6.5 or higher, whether from the IELTS General Training Test or IELTS Academic test.
Moreover, it is advisable to try for individual IELTS scores of 6.5 or above in each of the test components, setting a strong foundation for your successful application in the Skilled Migrant Category. Try this chance to build a promising future in the captivating beauty of New Zealand.
3. Entrepreneur Work Visa
When applying for the Entrepreneur Work Visa, it is essential to meet the minimum overall IELTS test score requirement of 4.0 or higher. You can choose the IELTS Academic or IELTS General test to fulfil this language proficiency prerequisite. Prepare yourself to start an entrepreneurial journey in New Zealand with this visa opportunity and unleash your potential in a land of endless possibilities.
4. Residence from Work Visa
After having worked in New Zealand for a period of two years, you become eligible to apply for residence status under the esteemed Residence From Work category. To proceed with your application, it is imperative to achieve an IELTS overall score of 5.0 or higher in either the IELTS General Training or IELTS Academic test.
Getting the Residence From Work visa grants you privileges akin to Permanent Residency, providing you with the freedom to:
- Reside in New Zealand as a resident without any time restrictions
- Travel in and out of New Zealand at your convenience and as frequently as desired
- Access a multitude of publicly funded services, enriching your life in this vibrant country
5. Parent Resident Visa
If you are a parent of a child who lives in New Zealand or is a New Zealand citizen who earns enough and agrees to sponsor you, you will be able to live in New Zealand permanently as well. You will still need to take the IELTS general or academic test and attain an overall band score of 5.0 and above, as well as a band score of 4.0 or more in at least 2 of the 4 skills (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking). It is important to note that your test result must be no more than 2 years old at the time of your application.
IELTS Test Fee
For more information: Fees for IELTS for New Zealand
High quality IELTS prep material to improve your score for New Zealand
Preparing for and securing a good IELTS score is an invaluable step towards unlocking the doors of New Zealand's best institutions.
IELTS Taster (Sample test)
Get a flovour of the IELTS 2 tests (Listening and Reading)
Expert tips
Specially curated videos and tips by experts and high-band scorers
Free IELTS Masterclass
A 60-minute session by an IELTS expert to guide all about the exam
What to do if your IELTS band score is not high enough?
If your English skills are still not up to the mark with what is required to score a good band, then it may be worth investing some extra time to prepare better. At IDP, we have a range of free materials available to help you prepare for your IELTS exam better.
Prepare yourself thoroughly for these tests, as their scores will be very important for your admission to a popular university in New Zealand. To get guidance for your IELTS exam, walk into your nearest IDP IELTS centre.