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Go to New Zealand

Get there with the TOEFL iBT® test.

 

Whether you’re planning to study at a leading New Zealand university, grow your career, or build a new future abroad, the TOEFL iBT test can help you take the next step with confidence.

 

Trusted by institutions and recognised for visa and professional purposes, TOEFL® gives you a globally respected way to demonstrate your English proficiency.

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Study in new zealand

Why go to New Zealand?

New Zealand is known for its world-class education system, welcoming communities, stunning natural landscapes and balanced lifestyle.

International students choose New Zealand not only for academic excellence, but also for the opportunity to experience a safe, inclusive and English-speaking environment that supports both personal and professional growth.

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS

  • All 8 New Zealand universities rank among the world’s leading institutions
  • Innovative teaching methods focused on critical thinking and practical learning
  • Smaller class sizes and supportive learning environments
  • Strong research and industry connections
  • Qualifications recognized globally
  • Diverse international student communities

PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

  • Friendly and welcoming culture
  • High quality of life and strong student support services
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor lifestyle
  • Opportunities to gain work experience while studying
  • Post-study pathways for eligible graduates
  • Safe and multicultural cities and communities
Why go to New Zealand

Study in New zealand

REGION
Oceania
LANGUAGE
English & Māori
CURRENCY
NZD ($)
TIME ZONES
UTC+12 to UTC+13
CLIMATE
Mild coastal climate

Life in New Zealand: What to Expect

Living and studying in New Zealand offers a unique balance of academic opportunity and lifestyle.

Classrooms in New Zealand often encourage discussion, collaboration and independent thinking, helping students build confidence and practical communication skills.

Outside of study or work, New Zealand offers vibrant cities, outdoor adventures, cultural festivals and welcoming communities that make it easy to feel at home.

International students and professionals can also access support services such as:

  • Academic support and tutoring
  • Career guidance and employability services
  • Student wellbeing resources
  • Orientation programs and community activities
  • Accommodation support

Planning ahead for housing, transportation and living expenses can help make your transition smoother and more comfortable.

Animated image New zealand

Work & Professional Opportunities

New Zealand provides opportunities for international students and skilled professionals to gain valuable experience in English-speaking academic and workplace environments.

While Studying

Eligible students may be able to:

  • Work part-time while studying
  • Gain industry experience through internships or placements
  • Build professional communication skills
  • Explore graduate and post-study opportunities

Professional Recognition & Skills Assessment

TOEFL iBT scores are also accepted by a range of professional organisations and licensing bodies.

Professional areas that may recognise TOEFL scores include:

  • Accounting
  • Teaching
  • Business and Professional Services
  • Skilled Migration and Employment Pathways

Examples of organisations that accept TOEFL scores include:

  • Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand
  • Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand

Always check directly with your institution, employer, professional body or immigration authority for the latest English-language requirements.

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Understanding New Zealand Visa & Immigration Requirements

New Zealand offers a range of visa pathways for international students, graduates, skilled professionals and migrants.

 

English-language proficiency is an important requirement for:

  • Student visas
  • Skilled migration pathways
  • Residency applications
  • Professional registration and licensing
  • Employment-related visa categories

 

Important Information for Visa Applicants
 

For visa purposes:

  • You must take the TOEFL iBT at an authorised test centre
  • Home Edition scores are not currently accepted by Immigration New Zealand 
  • NZQA-governed institutions (polytechnics, vocational colleges…) only accept TOEFL iBT Australia
  • Different visa categories may require different minimum scores

 

Because immigration and institutional policies can change, we strongly recommend checking official government and institution resources before booking your test.

IMMIGRATION NEW ZEALAND

Visa and immigration information

STUDY WITH NEW ZEALAND

Your guide to studying in New Zealand

NEW ZEALAND QUALIFICATION AUTHORITY

Learn about New Zealand's education qualifications, credentials, and standards

English Proficiency Requirements

New Zealand universities, training providers (*), employers and professional bodies often require proof of English proficiency to ensure you are prepared for academic, workplace and everyday communication.

The TOEFL iBT test is trusted because it measures the English skills needed for real-world success.

(*) Please note that NZQA-governed institutions only accept TOEFL iBT Australia

How TOEFL® Supports You

With TOEFL, you can:

  • Apply confidently to New Zealand universities and institutions
  • Support visa and migration applications
  • Demonstrate workplace communication skills
  • Meet professional registration or licensing requirements
  • Send official scores directly to institutions (*) and organisations

(*) Please note that NZQA-governed institutions only accept TOEFL iBT Australia

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

FAQ

Yes. TOEFL iBT is accepted by all New Zealand universities. TOEFL iBT Australia is accepted by all NZQA-governed institutions.

Yes. TOEFL iBT scores are accepted by Immigration New Zealand for eligible visa applications. Always confirm the latest requirements directly with Immigration New Zealand.

No. Immigration New Zealand currently requires TOEFL tests to be taken at an authorised test centre.

The TOEFL iBT test takes approximately 2 hours.

TOEFL iBT scores are valid for 2 years.

Consider factors such as:

  • Course availability
  • Location and lifestyle
  • Tuition fees and living costs
  • Graduate outcomes
  • Campus environment
  • Student support services

International students may be eligible to work while studying, depending on their visa conditions. Check the latest information from Immigration New Zealand.

Score requirements vary depending on the institution, program, profession or visa category. Always confirm requirements directly with the organisation you are applying to.

For more information about living or studying in New Zealand, visit:

STUDY WITH NEW ZEALAND

The official government site for information on studying with New Zealand

MANAAKI NEW ZEALAND SCHOLARSHIPS

Learn about studying in Aotearoa New Zealand on scholarship

NEW ZEALAND STUDENT VISA

Find out if you need a visa and how to apply