Language Tests for New Zealand University Admissions
A comprehensive guide to language proficiency requirements, accepted tests, and preparation resources for applying to universities in New Zealand.
If English is not your first language, New Zealand universities ask for proof of your English, usually with a test. Each course sets its own score. These are the usual scores at the University of Auckland (UoA) and Victoria University of Wellington (VUW).
- Students from other countries whose first language is not English
- At UoA, if you are a citizen of Canada, Ireland, Singapore, the UK or the USA, you usually do not need an English test.
Important Considerations
At UoA you must reach the scores in a single test, taken on one day.
At UoA, your test result must be no more than two years old on the day you start your course.
IELTS One Skill Retake means you retake just one part of the test, not the whole test. UoA and VUW accept it. At UoA it must be within 60 days of your first test.
At UoA you can apply before you take your test. You may get a conditional offer (an offer with something still missing) until you send your score.
Test Acceptance by University Type
TOEFL iBT is accepted at UoA and VUW.
Total Score
Since January 2026, TOEFL iBT uses a 6-point scale (it replaced the 120-point scale). UoA asks for 4.5 overall and 4.5 in writing. On the older 120-point scale: 90 overall and 21 in writing.
Score Requirements for New Zealand Universities
| University Tier | Undergraduate | Graduate | Ph.D. Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| UoA | - | 90, writing 21 (older 120-point scale) | - |
| VUW | 80 (older 120-point scale) | 90, writing 20 (older 120-point scale) | 90, writing 21 (older 120-point scale) |
These are general ranges. Always check the specific requirements of each institution and program.
Official Website & Registration
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Academic is accepted at UoA and VUW. It has four parts: listening, reading, writing and speaking. "No part below 6.0" means every part must be 6.0 or more.
Score Validity
At UoA, two years.
Typical Minimum Requirements
e.g., Each programme page states its own IELTS score.
e.g., Includes IELTS Online and One Skill Retake
e.g., Includes IELTS Online and One Skill Retake
e.g., Needs more than the usual score
Special Considerations
- • Graduate programs may require higher scores
- • Some schools require minimum scores in each section
- • English-focused majors often have higher requirements
Official Website & Registration
VUW accepts the Duolingo English Test.
Score Requirements by Tier
Official Website & Registration
Universities also accept other tests.
Primary AlternativePTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic)
Test Overview
PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic is accepted at UoA and VUW. Communication scores are the four parts: listening, speaking, reading and writing.
New Zealand University Requirements
Other Alternative English Proficiency Tests
Accepted at UoA and VUW.
Courses can ask for higher scores.
| University Category | TOEFL iBT | IELTS Academic | Duolingo English Test | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Postgraduate e.g., UoA and VUW | 90 (older 120-point scale; UoA writing 21, VUW writing 20) | 6.5 (no part below 6.0) | VUW: 120 | 58 |
Undergraduate e.g., VUW | 80 (older 120-point scale) | 6.0 (no part below 5.5) | 105 | 50 |
Score Requirements Variations
Special Cases & Conditional Admissions
Conditional Admission Options
- VUW has an English course (English for Academic Purposes) for students who do not reach the English score.
Special Cases
At UoA, if your marks are good enough but you have not sent an English score, you may get a conditional offer.
VUW's Foundation Studies is a course that can help if you do not meet the entry rules for a bachelor's degree.
At UoA, citizens of some English-speaking countries usually do not need a test.
Common Exemption Categories
Citizens of English-speaking countries
Canada, Ireland, Singapore, the UK and the USA, at UoA.
Book your test early. Your result must be ready before the closing date.
General Preparation Timeline
Before the closing date
Take your test. At UoA, the result must be no more than two years old when you start.
Professional Preparation Services
Ask us which test suits your course.
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