Hello there students!
Let us tell you about how New Zealand handles language requirements for international students.
While many people think IELTS is the only way to go, New Zealand actually gives you quite a few options to prove your English skills.
In fact, the universities just want to make sure that you can handle your coursework and communicate well in class.
Anyway, you know what’s really cool?
Well, if you’ve already studied in English before, that can really work in your favour.
Plus, there are some other areas as well you should consider of, which we are talking about in this guide.
Therefore, without any further introduction, let’s get into details.
Universities That Don’t Require IELTS
Some of New Zealand’s top-level educational institutes don’t really look for IELTS as a qualification.
Here are some of it:
- The University of Auckland
- Lincoln University
- Unitech Institute of Technology
- The University of Canterbury
- The University of Otago
In fact, they understand that IELTS isn’t the only way to show that you’re good at English.
Which means that If you’ve done your high school or college studies in English, that might be a good push for yourself.
In addition to that, these universities have also come up with some great foundation programs for international students.
Whereas these programs help you to get better at English while preparing you for the university-level work.
Alternatives for the English Proficiency Tests
There are quite a few other tests that you can take instead of IELTS.
Speaking of which, you can go for TOEFL iBT, where you’ll need to score at least 80 on that one. Or PTE Academic, where you’ll need a score of 58 or higher.
Moreover, the Duolingo English Test has become pretty popular as well as most schools want to see a score of 105 or more on this test.
Finally, Cambridge English tests are another good option that is specifically C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency, where you’ll need to score at least 176 to qualify.
Qualifying Through Previous Education
Did you go to high school in a country where everything was taught in English?
Then, that might be all you need.
This works especially well if you studied in places like the US, UK, Canada, or Australia.
Either way, even if you did your bachelor’s degree somewhere else, as long as it was taught in English, that could be enough to meet the requirements.
Country-Specific Exemptions
New Zealand’s pretty open-minded about this.
Which means they focus on the English level test scores from countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and India. This is because English isn’t their mother tongue.
Anyway, if you’ve got certain qualifications from these places, like Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-Levels or an International Baccalaureate taught in English, you’re probably good to go.
To put it simply, your English knowledge should be at a high level, especially if you are from a country that doesn’t use English more often.
Application Process Without IELTS
First of all, you need to get accepted by a New Zealand school.
Then, you’ll need to show them how good your English is, this could be through your old school records, certificates, or other test scores.
When it comes to time, usually, they’ll process everything in about 15-20 working days. But sometimes it might take longer if they’re super busy or need more information.
Tips for Success
When you’re putting together your application, make sure that all your English qualification documents are genuine and relevant.
Also, keep in touch with your chosen school about what exactly they need.
Moreover, it’s a good idea to start working on everything at least three months before you want to start studying.
This is because it gives you plenty of time to sort out any issues that might come up.
Here’s something interesting, many of these alternative English tests are cheaper than IELTS.
And most of these test scores are good for two years.
Anyway, just remember that different universities might have different rules, so it’s worth checking with each school directly.
Also, if you’re already studying in New Zealand and want to extend your visa, you probably won’t need to take another language test.
But you do need to keep your grades up!
Therefore, if you’re planning to study for a while, just keep track of any changes in the requirements and hold onto all your academic records from your time in New Zealand.
Remember that getting a New Zealand student visa without IELTS is totally possible to do.
The only thing that you just need to do is to plan well and understand what’s required.
Contact TEVS a New Zealand student visa agents in Sri Lanka for more details.