Universities in New Zealand Without IELTS for Indian Students

Dreaming of studying in New Zealand but worried about clearing the IELTS exam? You’re not alone! For many students, the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) feels like the biggest hurdle in their study abroad journey for English-speaking countries like New Zealand. The good news is that it’s possible to study in New Zealand without IELTS. 

Several universities and colleges in the country now accept Indian students through alternative proficiency routes like proof of English-medium education and scores on other widely accepted English proficiency tests. While IELTS has traditionally been the standard for university admissions and student visas, New Zealand’s education system has evolved to offer flexible pathways.

This blog helps you plan your study abroad journey by sharing the top universities in New Zealand without IELTS requirements, alternative English proficiency tests you can take, and tips on the study visa application.

Key Highlights 

1. IELTS is commonly required, but not mandatory in every case. 
2. Many New Zealand universities accept Indian students without IELTS. These include the likes of the University of Otago and Lincoln University.
3. Alternative English tests like PTE and TOEFL are accepted for both admission and student visas.

Why is IELTS Required to Study in New Zealand?

The IELTS is accepted by all major New Zealand colleges and universities as proof of English proficiency. Your score on this test also helps you apply for a study visa. 

The primary purpose of this test is to ensure that all international students have the necessary reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills to successfully complete their academic programs. It also helps them communicate effectively in their day-to-day lives.  

Wondering, “Is IELTS required for New Zealand?” Not always. The IELTS is not the only way to demonstrate your English language skills. There are other valid ways too. If a student’s previous education in an English medium school or alternative test scores show a strong English skillset, many institutions allow IELTS waivers. 

Top 10 Universities in New Zealand without IELTS for Indian Students

Many top-ranked universities in New Zealand waive off IELTS scores completely if you meet other alternative criterias. It’s important to remember that New Zealand’s band requirement after 12th grade can vary across programme levels and university.

Here’s a list of top colleges and universities in New Zealand without IELTS requirements: 

• University of Auckland: At the undergraduate level, the University of Auckland accepts alternative test scores from TOEFL, Cambridge C1/C2, Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic, and Integrated Skills in English (ISE). The university also offers Foundation Certificate in English for Academic Purposes (FCertEAP) and the English Pathway for Undergraduate Studies (EPUS). Indian students can also submit Grade 12 English scores from the Indian School Certificate, All India Senior School Certificate, and Higher Secondary State Boards. At the postgraduate level, the university accepts all of these tests with scores equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0.

• University of Otago: The university accepts TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1/C2 and PTE Academic. You can alternatively appear for English New Zealand’s Accredited Pathway Assessment or Duolingo English Test. It also allows for All India Senior School Certificate (CBSE), Indian School Certificate (CISCE), or Grade 12 English from specified Higher Secondary State Boards at the undergraduate level only.  

• Massey University: The university considers scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Cambridge Tests, PTE Academic, and Language Certificate (Academic). Duolingo is considered valid too. Grade 12 scores on AISSC (75% overall average + minimum 60% in English), ISC (75% overall average + minimum 60% in English), and HSC (Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal – 85% overall + minimum 70% in English) marks are also accepted. 

• University of Waikato: It considers TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic (in-person), ISE, Cambridge B1/B2/C2. Alternatively, you can also appear for New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Applied) (Level 3) or Duolingo English Test. The scores on each of these tests vary depending on the programme. 

• University of Canterbury: University of Canterbury considers TOEFL iBT, CCEL English for Academic Purposes, Cambridge C1 and C2, Pearson Test of English (Academic), New Zealand Certificate in English Language (NZCEL), LanguageCert, Integrated Skills in English, and Duolingo. 

• Lincoln University: Lincoln accepts scores TOEFL iBT, Kaplan Test of English and PTE Academic. Other valid tests include LanguageCert Academic, Oxford ELLT Global, and Password/Password Skills Plus. If you don’t meet the requirements, you may be enrolled on a Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills (PEASS) course before starting the course. 

• AUT University: AUT considers TOEFL iBT, Pearson Test of English (PTE), NZCEL, C1 Advanced, and Trinity ISE for its bachelor’s and master’s degree. It only considers TOEFL iBT and PTE for its doctoral programmes.

• Victoria University of Wellington: Victoria University of Wellington accepts IELTS alternatives like Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), VU English, Pearson Test of English (PTE), Cambridge C1 Advanced and B2 First. 

• Unitec Institute of Technology: The Unitec Institute of Technology follows the English language requirements set by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) for international students. It includes TOEFL Internet-based test (iBT), Cambridge English Qualifications, NZCEL, PET, Trinity ISE, and LanguageCert. 

• Southern Institute of Technology: The Southern Institute of Technology accepts the Occupational English Test with a minimum of C+ band in each section in one sitting. 

Alternative English Proficiency Tests Instead of IELTS for New Zealand

As an international student seeking admission, if you choose not to appear for IELTS, don’t worry. There are other English proficiency tests accepted by New Zealand universities. Here’s a brief overview of the common IELTS alternatives for undergraduate and postgraduate courses:

• TOEFL iBT: It’s an internet-based test that takes about 2 hours to complete. You can take it at home or at a test centre. The test assesses listening, reading, speaking and writing skills. Every section is graded 0-30, and the total score ranges from 0-120.

• Cambridge C1: It’s a digital or paper-based test with 4 papers that take about 4 hours to complete. The scores demonstrate that you can follow academic courses and communicate effectively at a professional level.
• Cambridge C2: Similar to C1 in terms of papers and time, the C2 scores show your mastery of English at an exceptional level. It prepares you to study for postgraduate and PhD programmes.

• Pearson Test of English (PTE): A two-hour computer-based English language proficiency test that measures academic level speaking, writing, reading and listening skills. The test is accepted by the New Zealand immigration authorities for study and migration visas, and 100% of universities here.  

• Trinity ISE: The test offers a digital as well as a paper edition. The scores are mapped to the Common European Framework of Reference for languages (CEFR) for levels A1 to C2. The Digital format allows you to resit a module within 90 days to improve your score. The exam takes approximately 110 minutes to finish. The paper-based exam, in contrast, follows a two-module structure (Reading & Writing + Speaking & Listening). It can be taken together or separately depending on the location of the test. 

• LanguageCert (Academic): It is recognised by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) for admissions into all programmes for international students. It offers flexible scheduling and returns results in 5 working days. It is best to check the accepted test form and score requirements with your university. 

• Duolingo English Test: You can appear for the Duolingo English test anytime and anywhere to certify your proficiency. One of the primary benefits of Duolingo is its time duration (30 minutes) and immediate results within 2 days. It is one of the most affordable options available for students. 

Some language proficiency exams, like the PTE, not only support your admission process but also help you get a student visa without IELTS. Other than proficiency tests, some institutions also accept other proof of ability. If you’ve completed your previous studies in English medium, a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter can serve as proof. Similarly, you can present your academic transcripts from grade 12. 

Pro tip: Choose the test based on your requirements. If you are comfortable with traditional test-taking, the TOEFL is better suited for you. However, if you prefer digital tests, then you can consider options like PTE and Trinity ISE. Duolingo can be a good option too if you are looking for a test that’s digital, affordable, and quick.  

Study in the New Zealand Without IELTS with GS Global’s Help

Many students ask us, “Can I study in New Zealand without IELTS?” The answer is “You can”, with careful planning in terms of choosing the right university, gathering the required documents, and ensuring you meet the necessary eligibility criterials. GS Global makes this process easier! 

We are experienced study-abroad consultants who specialise in helping students fulfil their dreams of unlocking world-class education systems in countries like New Zealand. Our experts can guide you through these alternative options by evaluating your profile, assisting with university and course selection, and even visa filing to pursue higher education effortlessly. If you’re ready to take the next confident step in your journey, get in touch with us to start your application process!