What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the most widely used test to measure an individual’s level of English. It is accepted by schools, universities, and migration authorities in countries like New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Types of IELTS Tests

  1. IELTS Academic
    • Purpose: For entry into universities or courses requiring a certain level of language proficiency.
    • Focus: Academic English skills.
  2. IELTS General Training
    • Purpose: For work or migration purposes.
    • Focus: Everyday English skills.

Test Structure

Both tests are scaled up to 9.0 and consist of four bands:

  • Listening
  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Speaking

Classes are designed to equip you with the skills needed to undertake the test, tailored to your specific goals.

Why study IELTS in New Zealand?

  • High Quality Education: New Zealand IELTS classes are known for their standards and quality of teaching with a strong emphasis on practical and communicative learning. 
  • Diverse cultural program and experience: Studying IELTS preparation courses in NZ will allow you to experience a multicultural environment, with classmates from different backgrounds. This not only enriches your learning experience but also encourages you to use English consistently, as you won’t be able to rely on your mother tongue as you might when studying English in your home country. 
  • Safe and welcoming environment: New Zealand is considered the 4th safest country in the world. The country is also known for its friendliness, making it an ideal place for international students. 
  • Flexibility of Student visa: Compared to Australia circumstances, New Zealand is giving more visa grant rate for international students among different nationalities and profiles.  
  • Work part-time while you study:  If you enrol to study an English language course over 24 weeks, you can work. If the course takes less than 24 weeks, minimum should enrol 14 weeks with a school categorized on ‘NZQA Category 1’. 

IELTS score scale

Band score  Skill level  Description 
9  Expert user  The test taker has fully operational command of the language. Their use of English is appropriate, accurate and fluent, and shows complete understanding. 
8  Very good user  The test taker has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriate usage. They may misunderstand some things in unfamiliar situations. They handle complex and detailed argumentation well. 
7  Good user  The test taker has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings in some situations. They generally handle complex language well and understand detailed reasoning. 
6  Competent user  The test taker has an effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings. They can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations. 
5  Modest user  The test taker has a partial command of the language and copes with overall meaning in most situations, although they are likely to make many mistakes. They should be able to handle basic communication in their own field. 
4  Limited user  The test taker’s basic competence is limited to familiar situations. They frequently show problems in understanding and expression. They are not able to use complex language. 
3  Extremely limited user The test taker conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. There are frequent breakdowns in communication. 
2  Intermittent user  The test taker has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English. 
1  Non-user  The test taker has no ability to use the language except a few isolated words. 
0  Did not attempt the test  The test taker did not answer the questions. 

IELTS Course Entry requirements

Some providers require an overall IELTS 5.0 to enroll in an IELTS preparation course whereas some schools require students to take a placement test. 

IELTS Course Fee in New Zealand

The costs range between NZ$300-NZ$500, depending on the study level and education providers. 

Entry Requirements

Some providers require an IELTS score (5.0) whereas some require students to take a placement test.

School Recommendations

There are many schools in New Zealand offering IELTS courses. Below are among the most popular ones:  

Worldwide School of English: https://worldwideschool.ac.nz/academic-english/ 

NZLC: https://nzlc.ac.nz/ielts/ 

AEA (Auckland English Academy): https://english.co.nz/courses/ielts-preparation-course/ 

FAQs

What is the IELTS Test Fee in New Zealand?

NZ$445 per test. 

What types of IELTS courses are available in New Zealand?

There are many types of IELTS test preparation courses in New Zealand, such as intensive courses, face to face courses, online courses and one-on-one tutoring. Some courses provide comprehensive preparation for all parts of the test while others only focus on specific skills that you need to improve.  

How long does it take to study an IELTS course in New Zealand?

The duration of an IELTS course depends on the level of your English skills, but it can range from 12 to 24 weeks.  

What is the minimum IELTS score required for university admission in New Zealand?

The IELTS score required can vary depending on the study level and the course you intend to apply for. Normally, you may need to obtain an IELTS of 6.0 for undergraduate program and an IELTS of 6.5 for postgraduate program.   

Can I work while studying IELTS in New Zealand?

Yes, you can work up to 20 hours per week if you are holding an eligible student visa to study IELTS courses in New Zealand.

Interested in studying IELTS in New Zealand?  

Contact SOL EDU today at [email protected] or 07 3003 1899 for free counselling, and a free application process!