Rules, comparisons and data

What IELTS score do you need as an optometrist in New Zealand?

The Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Board (ODOB) needs IELTS Academic with at least 7.0 in listening, reading, writing and speaking from applicants whose first language is not English, unless an exemption applies. PTE Academic (65 in each section) and the optometry OET (350 in each component) are the alternatives. Tests must be in person and under two years old.
  • Guide updated · 29 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026

ODOB approved tests

From the Board's English language policy for registration.pdf) (POL-00020, version 1.3, approved 21 September 2026). All minimums must be met in one result, except where an IELTS One Skill Retake applies.

TestMinimum in one result
IELTS Academic7.0 in each of listening, reading, writing and speaking
PTE Academic65 in each section
OET (Optometry)B pass (350) in each of the four components

Retakes, test format and validity

Tests must be taken in person, on paper or computer; online and distance tests are not accepted. Results must be no more than two years old when the Board receives your application, and the Board verifies them online.

The Board accepts an IELTS One Skill Retake for one band, with only one attempt. If you do not reach 7 in that band at the retake, you must sit the whole test again.

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Exemptions

You may be exempt if English (or Te Reo Māori, with full-time contact study in English) is your first language and your qualification was taught and examined in English in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK or the USA; or if English is not your first language but you meet one of the policy's study and work combinations, such as an English-taught bachelor's degree from one of those countries studied full-time on campus plus two years' full-time relevant work there. Online, distance, offshore and part-time study do not count. Regulators change these rules, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current scores on the ODOB page.pdf) before you book a test.

Frequently asked questions

What IELTS score do optometrists need in New Zealand?+

IELTS Academic with at least 7.0 in each of the four bands, in one sitting unless a One Skill Retake applies.

Does ODOB accept PTE?+

Yes. PTE Academic with at least 65 in each section.

Is IELTS One Skill Retake accepted?+

Yes, for one band and one attempt only.

How old can my results be?+

No more than two years old when the Board receives your application.

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Related

Guide updated on 29 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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