Filipino nurses continue to be in demand around the world, with opportunities available across Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and other countries facing healthcare workforce shortages. If you're planning to pursue a nursing career overseas, demonstrating your English language proficiency is often one of the first requirements you'll need to meet.
For many nursing registration and visa pathways, IELTS Academic is accepted as proof of English proficiency. Because score requirements vary by country and professional regulator, it's important to understand your target score before booking a test and starting your preparation.
Here are the IELTS Academic score requirements commonly used by nursing regulators and visa screening authorities in some of the most popular destinations for Filipino nurses. Requirements may vary depending on your registration pathway and can change over time:
Australia
Target score:
Overall band score of 7.0
At least 7.0 in Listening, Reading, and Speaking
At least 6.5 in Writing
Who sets the requirement?
The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) establishes English language requirements for nurses seeking registration in Australia.
Australia remains one of the most popular destinations for Filipino nurses due to its strong healthcare sector, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional growth. Meeting the required IELTS scores is an important step toward obtaining nursing registration and pursuing employment opportunities in the country.
New Zealand
Target score:
At least 7.0 in Listening, Reading, and Speaking
At least 6.5 in Writing
Who sets the requirement?
The Nursing Council of New Zealand determines the English language standards for internationally qualified nurses.
New Zealand continues to attract healthcare professionals from around the world, including the Philippines. Achieving the required IELTS score can help support your nursing registration application and bring you one step closer to practicing in the country.
United States
Target score:
Typically, 6.5 overall, but it still depends on the state
7.0 in Speaking for many visa screening programs
Minimum scores may also apply for the other language skills
Who sets the requirement?
Requirements can vary depending on the state, employer, licensing authority, or immigration pathway you are pursuing. Some programs may have additional requirements beyond IELTS scores.
The United States remains one of the most sought-after destinations for internationally educated nurses. Because requirements can differ significantly between states and organizations, it's important to research the specific requirements that apply to your intended destination before booking your test.
Why knowing your target score matters
Having a clear score goal before you begin preparing can help you create a more effective study plan and focus your efforts where they matter most. Many nursing pathways require strong performance in Speaking because effective communication is essential in healthcare settings.
For this reason, a high Speaking score is often the most highlighted requirement. A candidate who falls short in the Speaking part of the test may still need to retake the test to meet registration requirements, regardless of their stellar scores in Writing, Reading, and Listening.
By understanding the scores you need in advance, you can prioritize the right skill and monitor your progress clearly. But how are you supposed to do that? The first step is knowing that preparing for IELTS Academic takes time and consistent practice. It’s also best to follow these tips:
Experience the real test environment
Join a free IELTS Mock Test at an IDP test venue to experience a test-like setting and identify areas where you can improve. Mock Tests can also help reduce test-day nerves and give you a better understanding of what to expect.
Learn from IELTS experts
Attend our free IELTS Masterclasses or Gear Up Seminars held every so often. These events – both physical and virtual – allow you to receive practical advice, preparation tips, and guidance from IELTS specialists who understand the test inside and out.
You're invited to join our next IELTS Masterclass on Zoom. It's designed for nurses and healthcare professionals!
October 24, Saturday
1:30 PM onwards
Practice all four skills
Success in IELTS Academic requires balanced preparation across Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Make use of free practice materials and devote extra time to the skill areas you find most challenging.
Get your results sooner
With IELTS on Computer, you can get your results in just two days. This speed helps you move forward with your job and visa applications sooner. If you didn’t get your target score in one particular skill, you can always take advantage of IDP’s One Skill Retake, which is even faster and cheaper! #