Understanding English Language Requirements for Studying in New Zealand

As an international student, English will be your only means of communication to interact with people around you. Whether you are pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies, you need to meet New Zealand English language requirements to adapt to New Zealand’s ever-diverse society. Here’s why you should take the English language test for New Zealand:

• For Academic Success: In university, lectures, exams, group discussions, and assignments are always conducted in English. Students need to conscientiously participate in these activities and understand academic concepts with a solid grasp of the language.
• Social Integration: New Zealand is a very diverse country with people from different cultures, and languages. Therefore, English serves as a bridge between people from diverse backgrounds. As a student, English will help you to connect with classmates, and make new friends.

English Language Tests Accepted in New Zealand

International students need to showcase their language proficiency by taking proficiency tests and submitting them with university admission and visa applications. The English language tests accepted in New Zealand are:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT):

• Pearson Test of English (PTE):

• Duolingo English Test (DET):

Minimum English Language Scores

The universities in New Zealand require international students to have a basic command of English to understand lectures and participate in group discussions and assignments. For international students, the acceptable minimum English language scores vary across courses, degree levels, and universities. These scores are:

• IELTS: The minimum IELTS score for New Zealand is 5.5 bands for undergraduate and 6.0 bands for postgraduate programs.
• TOEFL iBT: The minimum score is 80-90 for undergraduate, 90-100 for postgraduate, and 100 or higher for doctorate programs.
• PTE: The minimum PTE score for New Zealand is 50 for undergraduate, 64 for postgraduate, and 64 (or higher) for doctorate programs.
• Duolingo: The minimum score is 90 to 110 for undergraduate and 100 to 110 for postgraduate and doctorate programs.

Alternatives of English Language Test

International students who have just completed their studies or were working professionals usually do not have enough time to prepare for language tests, especially for IELTS. Therefore, universities accept students with alternatives of English language test or exempt them with MOI letter.

In layman’s language, if an international student has completed his/her previous education (diploma or undergraduate degree) in college/university where the language of instruction was English. Then, the university exempts them from giving language proficiency test scores. 

However, you need to get a Medium of Instruction (MOI Letter) from the relevant department stating your education was completely taught in English along with your name, degree duration and graduating date. 

Preparing for English Language Tests

International students from non-English speaking countries have to struggle when learning a foreign language, particularly preparing for English language test for New Zealand. We recommend our students to follow these practical tips and strategies to prepare effectively: 

• Understand the Testing Format: Make yourself familar with the testing format, and what questions are asked during the test.
• Evaluate and Work on Your Weaknesses: Give mock test to see your proficiency, and dedicate more time to identified weaker areas.
• Practicing New Vocabulary: Learn new words especially phrases and idioms. Try to use them in your day to work communication.

New Zealand Student Visa Requirements 

English language is one of the most important requirements for securing a student visa if you want to study in New Zealand. The visa authorities ensures that visa applicant has adequate proficiency to integrate easily into the academic and social life. 

The minimum ielts band score for New Zealand visa is 5.5 overall bands. The visa application is all about preparing and organizing documents to show you as a strong applicant. The generally required documents are government-issued, academic, financial, or health insurances. 

However, you also need to provide the documents that were submitted with university admission to get language test exemption. If you are not sure what documents to prepare, speak with our experts immediately to get free visa assistance!