English Language Tests needed for NZ Visa Applications

If you are looking to live, work or study in New Zealand Immigration New Zealand can accept IELTS as evidence of your English abilities for your visa application.

IELTS is a high stakes English test that is trusted by institutions and organisations throughout New Zealand. In fact, all universities, colleges and professional associations in New Zealand that have set minimum language requirements to accept IELTS.

The IELTS score you need depends on the requirements of your visa and the organisation where you plan to study or work.

Different visas require different IELTS results – for example, if applying in the Skilled Migrant Category the principle applicant must have an overall band score of 6.5 in the IELTS General or IELTS Academic Module. Their partner and children need an overall band score of at least 5 in the IELTS General or IELTS Academic module.

You have a choice of two tests – IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training – depending on the requirements set by the organisation where you plan to work or study.

  • The IELTS Academic test is for people applying for higher education or professional registration in an English speaking environment. It reflects some of the features of academic language and assesses whether you are ready to begin studying or training.

  • The IELTS General Training test is for those who are going to English speaking countries for secondary education, work experience or training programs. It is also a requirement for migration to Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. The test focuses on basic survival skills in broad social and workplace contexts.

Preparing for your test is an important part of the process. IELTS have developed a range of free resources to help you improve your English language skills, including the Information for Candidates booklet, sample questions, and the Official IELTS Practice Materials. These include samples of past Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking sections, complete with sample answers and examiner comments. 

Native English speakers are also strongly advised to prepare for the IELTS test. It is easy to feel overconfident about the test when you have been using English all your life. But, if you want to achieve the best possible score for your test, you need to familiarise yourself with the test format. You can also access preparation materials to ensure you are ready for test day.

If you require more information on IELTS, speak to your Immigration Adviser. If you do not yet have one, fill in Migration Associates’ free visa evaluation form today and get started.

Lydia Walker