Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 29 October 2026
NZSE English scores by programme
From NZSE's Master of Data Analytics, Postgraduate Diploma in Healthcare, Graduate Diploma in Data Analytics and Diploma in IT Technical Support pages.
| Programme | Level | IELTS Academic | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Data Analytics | 9 | 6.5, no band below 6.0 | PTE 58; NZCEL Level 5 |
| Postgraduate Diploma in Healthcare | 8 | 6.5, no band below 6.0 | PTE 58; NZCEL Level 5 |
| Graduate Diploma in Data Analytics | 7 | 6.0, no band below 5.5 | Equivalent tests |
| NZ Diploma in IT Technical Support | 5 | 5.5, no band below 5.0 | NZCEL (Academic) Level 4 |
Other tests and fees
NZSE's postgraduate pages accept an equivalent English test as specified by NZQA. They do not list TOEFL or Duolingo scores, so check with NZSE before using either.
The Master of Data Analytics page lists international tuition of NZ$39,000 plus NZ$3,000 material fees, and an International Merit Scholarship of up to NZ$11,000.
Free test: are you at NZSE's score yet?
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Work rights the pages mention
NZSE's master's and postgraduate diploma pages mention in-study work rights of 25 hours a week. The Master of Data Analytics page mentions a 3-year post-study work visa and the healthcare postgraduate diploma page a one-year post-study work visa on completion; confirm visa rules with Immigration New Zealand.
Requirements vary by programme and change between intakes. The score that binds you is the one on your NZSE programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where New Zealand Skills and Education College (NZSE) publishes an IELTS score, it is the minimum: the floor an application has to meet to be considered, not a score that guarantees an offer.
Competitive programmes, and courses with far more applicants than places, may expect more than the minimum, and some departments set their own overall or per-skill scores, often for writing or speaking. The course page has the final word, so check it before you book a test.
If you are close to the line, aim for a margin above it: one weak skill can miss the requirement even when the overall band clears it. Not sure where you stand? Take a free IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS does NZSE need for the Master of Data Analytics?+
IELTS Academic 6.5 with no band below 6.0, or PTE Academic 58, or NZCEL Level 5.
What IELTS does NZSE need for a graduate diploma?+
IELTS Academic 6.0 with no band below 5.5 for the Level 7 Graduate Diploma in Data Analytics.
Does NZSE accept PTE?+
Yes. PTE Academic 58 is listed for its master's and postgraduate diplomas.
How much is NZSE's Master of Data Analytics?+
The programme page lists NZ$39,000 international tuition and NZ$3,000 material fees.
Keep reading
Related
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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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