20/10/2016
Cambridge English exam results can now be used to meet English language requirements for all categories of New Zealand visa.
From 21 November 2016, applicants for New Zealand visas who need to prove their level of English will be able to use Cambridge English’s First, First for Schools, and Occupational English Test (OET) qualifications, which join IELTS on the list of recognised qualifications for all visa categories where an English test may be required.
Cambridge English: First (also known as ‘FCE’) is one of the world’s most popular English language qualifications for anyone wanting to work or study in English. It is also available in the form of Cambridge English: First for Schools, which is designed specifically for school-age learners.
The Occupational English Test – OET – is specifically designed for healthcare professionals aspiring to work in New Zealand, Australia or Singapore. OET is already accepted by all the major healthcare Boards and Councils in New Zealand, and with recognition from Immigration New Zealand, international healthcare professionals can now take OET for both their visa application, and healthcare registration.
Cheng Pier Lim, Regional Director, South East Asia and Pacific from Cambridge English explains “Both Cambridge English: First and OET provide in-depth assessment of English language skills. Like IELTS, the tests are based on Cambridge English’s world-leading research and benefit from rigorous quality management systems which are trusted by immigration authorities, employers, universities and other organisations all over the world.”
Preparation courses for Cambridge English: First and OET qualifications are widely available around the world, including New Zealand, with places expected to increase as demand grows following the New Zealand Government’s announcement.
This change was announced along with other changes to language requirements for New Zealand visas which will require more applicants to provide formal evidence of English language proficiency as part of their application. Some forms of alternative evidence for Skilled Migrant visas, will no longer be accepted, such as one year of skilled employment in New Zealand, or a recognised qualification where the medium of instruction was English.
Note: Cambridge English: First and First for schools score of 176 and Occupational English Test (OET) Grade B will be accepted from 21 November 2016.