Rules, comparisons and data

What IELTS score do you need as a podiatrist in New Zealand?

The Podiatrists Board of New Zealand needs IELTS Academic with an overall band of at least 7 and a minimum of 7 in writing, speaking, reading and listening, unless English is your first language and you trained in a listed English-speaking country. OET at grades A and B is also accepted. Results must be under three years old and still valid when registration is approved.
  • Guide updated · 29 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026

Podiatrists Board accepted tests

From the Board's qualification and skills assessment candidate guide (updated September 2026), linked from its overseas qualification page.

TestMinimum
IELTS Academic7 overall, at least 7 in each band
OETGrades A and B

Retakes and validity

You may use IELTS One Skill Retake for one band only, and OET candidates may retake one band only. Results must be less than three years old from the test date.

The results must be valid when registration is approved, not just when you submit, so allow for processing time when you book.

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Exemptions and Australian podiatrists

You meet the requirement without a test if you declare English is your first language and completed your undergraduate podiatry training in New Zealand, Australia, the UK, Ireland, Canada or the USA. Podiatrists registered in Australia who apply under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act are not tested, because the Board relies on Ahpra's English rules. Regulators change these rules, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current scores on the Podiatrists Board page before you book a test.

Frequently asked questions

What IELTS score do podiatrists need in New Zealand?+

IELTS Academic 7 overall with at least 7 in each band.

How long are results valid?+

Less than three years from the test date, and still valid when registration is approved.

Is One Skill Retake accepted?+

Yes, for one band only.

Do Australian podiatrists need IELTS?+

Not if they apply under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act.

Keep reading

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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