Introduction
New Zealand is steadily rising in popularity among Indian students due to its world-class education system, multicultural environment, and strong pathways to work opportunities. A common worry for many, however, is the need to take the IELTS test. The great news in 2025: Several leading universities in New Zealand now welcome international students, including Indians, with alternatives to IELTS—such as the Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate and other recognized English proficiency tests. This makes the journey to a New Zealand degree both smoother and more accessible.
Can You Study in New Zealand Without IELTS?
Yes. Many institutions across New Zealand offer admissions without mandatory IELTS if applicants meet other English proficiency criteria. Students can use MOI, recognized alternatives, or previous academic study in English to fulfill this requirement.
What is MOI (Medium of Instruction)?
A Medium of Instruction certificate is an official document from your school or college confirming that your education was delivered primarily in English. New Zealand universities see MOI as strong evidence of English ability—especially if you studied in an English-medium institution throughout secondary or undergraduate years.
Key Features of MOI Acceptance
- Must be on official letterhead, signed, and stamped.
- Generally, you should have completed at least three or four years in English medium.
- Some universities may request additional proof (such as a telephonic or Skype interview).
- MOI can be used for both undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at select universities.
Top New Zealand Universities Accepting MOI or Alternative Tests
- Lincoln University: Accepts MOI for many master’s and postgraduate courses (2025 update).
- University of Otago: Considered case-by-case for science, MBA, and commerce admissions.
- University of Waikato: Accepts MOI (with strong academics) and also PTE, TOEFL, CPE, and CAE.
- Auckland University of Technology (AUT), Massey University, Victoria University of Wellington: Accept recognized alternatives and may grant waivers for those from English-medium backgrounds.
- Other Public Universities: Several institutions review MOI and supporting evidence, especially for students from recognized Indian boards and universities.
Important: Always check the individual university’s language policy as requirements may differ by course or department.
Which Other English Proficiency Tests Are Accepted?
For those who cannot provide MOI, New Zealand’s leading universities and Immigration NZ approve various tests:
- TOEFL iBT
- PTE Academic
- Cambridge English (C1 Advanced & C2 Proficiency)
- OET (health-related courses)
- NZCEL (New Zealand Certificate in English Language)
- B2 First, C1 Advanced (Cambridge series)
Typical minimum requirements for major universities:
| Test Type | Minimum Required Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS (if taken) | 6.0–6.5 overall (no band under 5.5) |
| TOEFL iBT | 79–90 |
| PTE Academic | 50–64 |
| Duolingo* | Often 100–110 for admissions |
*Note: Duolingo is accepted for entry by some universities (not all) and may not always be recognized for visa issuance—verify with your institution and current immigration guidelines.
Student Visa and Immigration Requirements
For a student visa, Immigration New Zealand generally requires:
- Proof of acceptance from a recognized education provider.
- English proficiency fulfilled by IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or possibly MOI, depending on the latest visa rules and the institution’s letter of support.
- Other standard documents: academic records, offer of place, financial evidence, passport, and health insurance.
⚠️ In 2025, the government is strictly enforcing in-person (test center) formats for TOEFL, PTE, and other exams. Online or at-home test versions are not accepted for visa purposes.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Shortlist your target program/university and review their explicit entry criteria.
- Prepare your MOI certificate on official letterhead, get it attested and scanned.
- Submit your application online with required academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and statement of purpose.
- Provide English Proficiency proof: Upload MOI, or register/sit for alternatives like TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English.
- Wait for conditional or unconditional offer. If only conditional (pending English), clarify if MOI will suffice.
- Apply for your student visa immediately upon getting the offer of place, including all required evidence.
- Plan arrival and accommodation once visa approval is received.
Advantages of MOI and Accepted Tests
- Saves cost and time of preparing for IELTS (INR 16,000–17,000).
- Reduces stress and waiting period for English scores.
- Makes New Zealand accessible to more Indian students.
- Flexibility to submit language scores or MOI, depending on personal strength.
Conclusion
Pursuing higher education in New Zealand without IELTS is certainly possible in 2025, with recognized universities now open to MOI and a wide range of accepted English proficiency tests. This flexibility removes a major hurdle and allows deserving Indian students to focus on academic and career goals. By understanding each university’s specific requirements and following the updated visa guidelines closely, you can streamline your application and set yourself up for success.
Need expert help with New Zealand admissions under MOI or alternative English tests? Connect with Ausizz Migration Consultants for personalized support on university selection, documentation, and the complete visa and application process. Maximize your chance for a smooth New Zealand student journey!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I get admission in New Zealand with just an MOI certificate?
A1: Yes, several top universities accept MOI for admissions, especially for students from English-medium backgrounds. Always check with your specific institution for eligibility.
Q2: Is MOI enough for a New Zealand student visa in 2025?
A2: Visa acceptance varies—while some universities may support MOI-based admission, Immigration NZ often prefers in-person English test results such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE for the student visa.
Q3: Which universities in New Zealand accept MOI?
A3: Lincoln University, University of Otago, University of Waikato, AUT, and others consider MOI, especially for postgraduate or science programs.
Q4: Which other English tests are accepted in New Zealand besides IELTS?
A4: TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge English (C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency), OET (for health), and sometimes Duolingo (for admissions—not always for visas).
Q5: Will Duolingo English Test be accepted for my visa?
A5: Some institutions accept Duolingo for admission, but the government may only consider in-person English exams (not home versions) for the study visa in 2025.
