OET vs IELTS for NCNZ Registration: Required Scores (2026)

Internationally qualified nurses must show English language ability to register with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ). For most Indian nurses that means the Occupational English Test (OET) or IELTS Academic. This guide sets out NCNZ's required scores and rules, based on NCNZ's requirements page and English language policy guidance. Rules can change, so confirm them with NCNZ before you book a test.

Last reviewed: 2 November 2026.

Which tests NCNZ accepts

NCNZ's English language policy accepts two tests: OET and IELTS Academic. NCNZ does not accept PTE. NCNZ treats the two accepted tests as equal routes, and its pages do not say that one is easier than the other.

Minimum scores

• OET: 350 in Reading, Listening and Speaking, and 300 in Writing.
• IELTS Academic: 7 in Reading, Listening and Speaking, and 6.5 in Writing.

NCNZ raised the minimum writing score on 19 August 2022 to 6.5 for IELTS and 300 for OET, while the other scores stayed the same. Older guides may show different writing scores; see NCNZ's policy update.

Combining sittings: the 12-month rule

• You can reach the required scores across more than one sitting, but all required scores must be met within 12 months of first sitting the test.
• All sittings must be completed within three years of starting your application.
• You cannot mix tests. For example, you cannot use OET Reading and Writing with IELTS Listening and Speaking.

How you must take the test

Tests must be taken at an OET or IELTS testing centre, on paper or on computer. NCNZ does not accept fully online tests taken at home, such as OET@home. Check the current wording on NCNZ's English language policy guidance before you book.

OET or IELTS: how to choose

Because NCNZ sets the same standard for both, the choice depends on you. OET is designed for healthcare professionals and uses healthcare scenarios. IELTS Academic is a general academic English test. Look at the format of each, try a practice test of both, and choose the one whose tasks suit your strengths. Remember you cannot mix them, so decide before your first sitting.

Alternatives to a test

NCNZ also has an education-based pathway (for nurses whose initial nursing education was taught and examined in English in Canada, Ireland, Singapore, the UK or the USA), a registration-based pathway (for nurses registered in Canada, Ireland, the UK or the USA where registration required an English test) and a route for registered Australian nurses. Nursing education in India does not qualify for the education-based pathway, so most Indian nurses use the test-based route.

Prepare for your test

We offer OET coaching and IELTS coaching. For the full registration process, read our guide on how Indian nurses register in New Zealand. We cannot guarantee a test score or a registration outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does NCNZ accept PTE?

No. NCNZ accepts OET and IELTS Academic.

Can I use OET for some skills and IELTS for others?

No. NCNZ does not allow components from different tests to be combined.

Can I combine results from more than one sitting?

Yes, if you meet all required scores within 12 months of first sitting the test and complete all sittings within three years of starting your application.

Can I take OET at home?

NCNZ does not accept fully online tests such as OET@home. Take the test at a testing centre, on paper or on computer.

What are the minimum writing scores?

6.5 for IELTS Academic and 300 for OET.

Sources: Nursing Council of New Zealand (requirements, English language competence policy guidance and 2022 policy update). For guidance only; always check NCNZ for current rules.