English language requirements for diplomas
There are several ways to show that you meet the English language requirements for an AUT diploma, depending on your situation.
An approved language test
Things to keep in mind:
- You’ll need to meet your English requirements in a single sitting of your chosen English language proficiency test (see table below) or through an approved alternative
- Your test results are valid for two years from the date on the test certificate to the time of your application to a programme at AUT
The test results you need vary by diploma – scroll down to see the results you need for the diploma you’re interested in.
Test results you need for:
- Diploma in Arts
- Diploma in Business
- Diploma in Computer and Information Sciences
- Diploma in Design Tītohu mō te Hoahoa
- Diploma in Engineering
- Diploma in Visual Arts Tītohu mō te Toi Ataata
Test | Required score |
IELTS (Academic)1, 2 | 5.5 overall with 5.5 in writing and all other bands 5 or higher |
TOEFL ibt2 | 70 overall |
Pearson Test of English (PTE)2 | Overall score of 42 with 42 or higher in writing and all other communicative skills 35 or higher |
C1 Advanced | Overall score of 162 and with 162 or higher in writing and 154 or higher in all other skills |
English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment | Level 1 (with no skill lower than Level 1) |
1. IELTS One Skill Retake is accepted at AUT. This means you can retake one skill below the required band to meet the IELTS requirements. Your One Skill Retake must be completed within 60 days of your original IELTS test and must be completed as a "One Skill Retake".
2. IELTS Academic Online and PTE Academic Online are not accepted.
Test results you need for:
- Diploma in Applied Science
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Diploma in Japanese
- Diploma in Pâtisserie
- Diploma in Sport and Recreation
Test | Required score |
IELTS (Academic)1, 2 | 5.5. overall with all bands 5 or higher |
TOEFL ibt2 | 70 overall |
Pearson Test of English (PTE)2 | Overall score of 42 with other skills no lower than 35 |
C1 Advanced | Overall score of 162 and with 154 or higher in all other skills |
English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment | Level 1 (with no skill lower than Level 1) |
Test results you need for:
- Diploma in Paramedicine
Test | Required score |
IELTS (Academic)1, 2 | 6.0 overall with all bands 5.5 or higher |
TOEFL ibt2 | 80 overall |
Pearson Test of English (PTE)2 | Overall score of 50 with all other scores no lower than 42 |
NZCEL | NZCEL 4 (Academic Endorsement) |
C1 Advanced | Overall score of 169 and no bands below 162 |
LanguageCert - International ESOL | C1 Expert IESOL (LRWS) with a pass overall and no less than a pass in each skill |
English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment | Level 2 (with no skill lower than Level 1) |
Trinity ISE | ISE II with no less than Distinction in any band |
NCEA level 3, CAIE or IB undertaken in New Zealand
If you’re gaining University Entrance through NCEA, Cambridge Assessment International Examinations (CAIE) or International Baccalaureate (IB) undertaken in New Zealand, you must meet the UE literacy requirements. You can’t replace the UE literacy requirements with an English language test result.
Learn more about University Entrance (UE)
Study in an English-speaking environment
You can use the official results of an academic qualification completed in a country where the main language of instruction and assessment for that qualification was English:
- Evidence is required that the qualification was taught and assessed in English
- Must be at an appropriate level
Need help with your English?
If you don’t currently meet the English language requirements for the AUT programme you’re interested in, you can study an English language course at AUT.
Study English at AUT