Applications for the IDP IELTS Future Award are open! Win USD $5,000*

Close

IELTS for migrating to New Zealand

Ranked highly as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, New Zealand is a small country with big opportunities for new migrants. From the bustling cosmopolitan cities in the north, to the stunning snow-capped mountains and glaciers in the south, New Zealand is perfect for those who want an urban lifestyle with nature right on their doorstep.

Find out more about moving to New Zealand

IELTS for studying in New Zealand

When you choose to study in New Zealand, you choose to study at a world-class institute – with all eight of New Zealand’s universities ranked in the top 3% of the world by QS World University Rankings. Tertiary, vocational and English students in New Zealand enjoy access to high-quality education and an affordable cost of living, in one of the most beautiful study destinations in the world.

Find out more about studying in New Zealand

IELTS migration guides for work and study

If you are planning to study or migrate to an English speaking country, immigration authorities may ask you to provide evidence of your English language ability. Just like you, people choose IELTS to support their study, migration, and professional ambitions. Accepted by more than 12,000 organisations globally and is the most respected test of English in the world. Learn more about IELTS for Australian, New Zealand, the UK and Canadian immigration and the requirements for English language tests.

Access migration guides

English Language Tests for New Zealand Visas

For migration to New Zealand, you may need to show that you understand the English language. So, to prove this, Immigration New Zealand can ask you to show that you’ve done an official language test, like IELTS. You may also have to show that in the 2 years before you apply, you have gained the minimum scores needed for your visa.

Full list of New Zealand Visas and IELTS Scores

Book IELTS for your visa

Sam is an international student studying engineering in Auckland, New Zealand
play button

Hear about life in Auckland as an international student and why he decided to study engineering.

Watch now

Why IELTS is the trusted choice

35 years of English testing experience. More than 4 million tests taken worldwide.

Worldwide Recognition

  • list?.image?.title12,500 organisations worldwide in more than 150 countries accept IELTS.
  • list?.image?.titleIELTS is used around the world for a variety of purposes, including for work, study, and migration.
  • list?.image?.titleIELTS is the only test recognised by select professional industries for registration.

Your IELTS, your choice

  • list?.image?.titleThere are two IELTS tests to choose from, depending on your needs – IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training.
  • list?.image?.titleChoose which format you’re more comfortable with – IELTS on paper or IELTS on computer.
  • list?.image?.titleIf you are planning to take an English test for the UK, you can take IELTS UKVI or IELTS Life Skills A1 or B1.

IELTS One Skill Retake

  • list?.image?.titleIELTS is the only major English test to offer One Skill Retake.
  • list?.image?.titleRetake one skill of the IELTS test without having to take a full test to improve your score.

Face-to-face Speaking test

  • list?.image?.titleSpeak with a human examiner in the IELTS Speaking test, in a private and quiet room, so you can focus more.
  • list?.image?.titleYour examiner can slow down, repeat and clarify questions, and won’t ‘time out’ on you.
list?.image?.media?.titleExplore organisations that accept IELTS
list?.image?.media?.titleFind a test centre near you

IELTS Masterclass

Presented by an IELTS expert, the free IELTS Masterclass will give you the knowledge and skills to boost your confidence. You can join us online or face-to-face at a free IELTS Masterclass event near you.

For people aiming for a high band score, get next-level IELTS expert advice to boost your confidence in the IELTS test.

Register now

Featured articles

View all articles
Immigration

New Zealand's resident visa categories reopen with significant changes

clock30s read
A group of four test takers sitting in the campus on grass talking about migration to New ZealandImmigration

What is New Zealand’s points system for immigration?

clock30s read
People discussing visas for New Zealand. These 5 tips can help you attain good English score to meet your visa requirements.Permanent residency

5 tips to ace IELTS for your New Zealand visa

Group of nurses

Migration: Nursing in New Zealand

clock5 mins read

List of 8 universities in New Zealand for IELTS score of 5.5 and above

3 Top Reasons Why People Choose IELTS General Training

Combine IELTS results for teaching registration in New Zealand