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Do you need an IELTS Academic test?

If you plan to study in higher education or seek professional registration, you might need to take the IELTS Academic test.

IELTS Academic test assesses your English-language proficiency at an academic level to determine whether you are ready to study at an undergraduate or post graduate level, or work in a professional setting, such as doctor, nurse, teacher or lawyer.

The Academic test looks at your English-language proficiency across the four skillsets, listening, reading, writing and speaking. The Listening and Speaking parts of the test are the same for both Academic and General Training, while the Reading and Writing parts are different.

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What is the difference between IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training?

If you plan to study in higher education or seek professional registration in an English-speaking country, you might need to take an IELTS Academic.


The General Training test looks at your English-language capabilities in a work or social environment. If you plan to study in secondary education, enroll in vocational training, move abroad for work or migrate to Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK or the USA, you might need to take an IELTS General Training.

One of the most common questions that people ask about IELTS is whether they need to take the IELTS Academic or General Training version. Everyone’s situation is different – watch this video and find out which IELTS test is right for you.

IELTS Academic or General Training: Which do you need?

IELTS Academic or General Training version. Watch this video and find out which IELTS test is right for you.

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Nursing in New Zealand

Nursing is one of the most favourable occupations for migration to New Zealand. Discover all that you need to know about:

  • English requirements for nursing
  • Working as a nurse in New Zealand
  • Nursing courses in New Zealand
  • Free study counselling