Which English Tests are accepted for your Expression of Interest?
There are different providers of English tests. They all have different ways of showing their test results.
Find out which test result will be required from your specific English test provider to prove that you meet the minimum English language standards for your Expression of Interest.
Acceptable English Tests and minimum scores required for the Principal applicant of your EOI:
| Name of your English test | Minimum score required for your EOI |
|---|---|
|
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - General or Academic Module |
Overall score of 6.5 or more |
|
Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT) |
Overall score of 79 or more |
|
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) |
Overall score of 58 or more |
|
Cambridge English: First (FCE) or Cambridge English: First (FCE) for Schools |
Overall score of 176 or more |
|
Occupational English Test (OET) |
Grade B or higher in all four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking)* |
* A score of Grade B or higher in all four skills is required for the OET as there is no overall grade for this test.
Minimum scores required for partners and dependent children aged 16 and older:
| Name of your English test | Minimum score required for your EOI |
|---|---|
|
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - General or Academic Module |
Overall score of 5.0 or more |
|
Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT) |
Overall score of 35 or more |
|
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) |
Overall score of 36 or more |
|
Cambridge English: First (FCE) or Cambridge English: First (FCE) for Schools |
Overall score of 154 or more |
|
Occupational English Test (OET) |
Grade C or higher in all four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking)* |
* A score of Grade C or higher in all four skills is required for the OET as there is no overall grade for this test.
Go back to our Quick Self-Check Guide to find out if you qualify for residence.
Read more about becoming a New Zealand resident through the Skilled Migrant Category:
- How many points will you need to have a realistic chance?
- Will you be able to claim points for your qualifications?
- Will you be able to claim bonus points for your professional expertise?
- Is your profession on one of the Skill Shortages Lists?
- Do you have to be registered in New Zealand?
- How can you get help with finding a job?
Ask our Licensed Immigration Advisers
If you want to find out more about obtaining the right visa for New Zealand, contact Julia Cooke, Licensed Immigration Adviser at NZIC.
Ask Julia for a Free Assessment