Straight-talking articles on English testing for New Zealand applications. Written by Auckland tutors, updated for 2026.
Exact IELTS and PTE scores for the Accredited Employer Work Visa — by ANZSCO skill level, Green List notes, and who's exempt.
Read the guidePTE 58 passes every NZ residence visa (SMC, STR, WtR, AEWV, Care Workforce, Transport Sector). 79 is only for some occupational registrations and universities. Higher scores don't earn more points.
Read the comparisonWho can skip IELTS and PTE for an NZ visa — passport countries, schooling and tertiary routes, and the evidence Immigration NZ actually accepts.
Read the guideFull conversion chart, section-by-section equivalents, CEFR levels, and the NZ visa threshold each score unlocks.
See the chartEnglish thresholds for partners, dependent children, and sponsors — plus the four ways to meet them without sitting a test.
Read the guideComparing both tests for NZ visa applications. Score equivalents, timelines, costs, and which to choose based on your situation.
Read the comparisonThe magic number for NZ Skilled Migrant. What the score measures, which sections trip candidates, and realistic timelines.
Read the guideExact band thresholds under the 6-point SMC, Academic vs General, section minimums, and the common mistakes that fail applications on English grounds.
Read the guide