To be eligible to register there are seven standards for registration that you must meet to make sure you are safe, competent and prepared to be a nurse in New Zealand

• BSc in Nursing / Post BSc in Nursing/ MSc in Nursing
• Experience of 2 years (including 2500 hrs.) in last 5 years of service (after registration)
• English Language –
• IELTS(A) – 7 in Reading, Listening and Speaking and 6.5 in writing OET ‘B’ (minimum score of 350) in Reading, Listening and Speaking and ‘C+’ I writing

Clubbing of scores is also accepted by the Council

You can achieve the minimum score in the English language tests over more than one sitting; however, the required score must be met within 12 months of first sitting the test and met within three years of your CGFNS report being transmitted to Nursing Council.

More instruction on English Test

Please note that the Nursing Council of New Zealand does not currently accept online computer-based tests.

Computer-based tests administered in an approved testing centre are accepted (this includes the OET on computer at venue with the speaking sub-test that is hosted online).

Nursing Registration

You must have been registered / licensed as a nurse in the country where you received your nursing education, and also hold current registration / license (in that or another country).

You must also provide verification of good standing to the NZNC from all countries you have been and are registered with.