NCNZ's English-language requirement
Every internationally qualified nurse must demonstrate English-language competence before registration. NCNZ accepts two tests, each with its own minimum bands:
| Test | Reading | Listening | Speaking | Writing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OET | 350 | 350 | 350 | 300 |
| IELTS Academic | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 6.5 |
You can reach these minimums across more than one sitting — often called "clubbing" — as long as every required score is achieved within 12 months of your first sitting. We help you pick the test, and the sitting strategy, that gets you there fastest.
Check your score against NCNZ's minimum
Enter a recent OET or IELTS result to see exactly which bands already meet NCNZ's requirement, and which ones need work.
This is a quick self-check against NCNZ's published minimums, not an official assessment. Always confirm your result directly with the Nursing Council.
What's covered in the course
- Class format
- One-to-one online classes tailored to your learning needs and test goals.
- Listening
- Consultation extracts and case-note style tasks drawn from real clinical situations, with active-listening strategy coaching.
- Reading
- Time-boxed practice on healthcare texts, matching, gap-fill and detailed comprehension tasks in the exact OET format.
- Writing
- Referral-letter writing practice with structured feedback on organisation, clinical accuracy and register.
- Speaking
- Role-play consultations with recorded, examiner-style feedback on fluency, clinical communication and rapport.
- Mock tests
- Full-length timed mock exams, marked against the same criteria OET and IELTS examiners use.
OET / IELTS FAQs
How long does it take to reach the required score?
It depends on your starting band and how much spoken/written English practice you're getting day to day. Most candidates need 4–10 weeks of focused coaching — we'll give you a realistic estimate after a diagnostic test.
Can I combine scores from different sittings?
Yes. NCNZ allows you to meet each band's minimum across more than one sitting, as long as every required score is achieved within 12 months of your first sitting, and all sittings are completed within three years of starting your application.
Does NCNZ accept the online, at-home version of these tests?
Check the current NCNZ policy directly before booking, as accepted test formats and centres can change. We'll flag this during your enrolment call so you don't book the wrong sitting.