Nursing Council minimum scores
Passing an approved test is the most common way to show English competence, according to the Council's requirements page for internationally qualified nurses.
| Test | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 7 | 7 | 6.5 | 7 |
| OET | 350 | 350 | 300 | 350 |
More than one sitting, and which formats count
You can meet the scores over more than one sitting, but they must be achieved within 12 months of first sitting the test, and all sittings must be completed within the three years before you apply.
The Council does not currently accept online computer-based tests. Computer-based tests at an approved test centre are accepted, including OET on computer at an approved venue with its online speaking sub-test. The Council states: "We do not accept PTE." IELTS One Skill Retake is not stated by the Council.
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Nurses educated or registered in certain countries may be able to use an education or registration pathway instead of a test, at the Council's discretion. The test pathway is always available.
Nurses applying to register in New Zealand must have their documents verified by TruMerit before applying to the Council. Regulators change these rules, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current scores on the Nursing Council page before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS score do nurses need for New Zealand?+
IELTS Academic with at least 7 in reading, listening and speaking and 6.5 in writing.
Is PTE accepted by the Nursing Council of New Zealand?+
No. The Council accepts only IELTS Academic and OET.
Can I combine two IELTS results?+
Yes. The scores must be achieved within 12 months of your first sitting, with all sittings in the three years before you apply.
How long is the result valid?+
All sittings must be completed within the three years before your application to the Council.
Is IELTS Online accepted?+
No. Online computer-based tests are not currently accepted; computer-based tests at an approved centre are.
Keep reading
Related
- OET vs IELTS for nurses
- IELTS for New Zealand
- IELTS for nurses in Australia
- Free IELTS mock test with AI band score
- All 711 guides
Verified against the linked official sources on 30 September 2026. Rules change: confirm on the official page before you book or apply.
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