Studying in New Zealand can be an exciting opportunity for international students, but language proficiency requirements can often pose a challenge. Fortunately, if you are a non-native English speaker dreaming of studying in this picturesque country, several esteemed universities accept TOEFL scores as proof of English language proficiency.
Whether you wish to immerse yourself in the city life of Auckland, experience the cultural richness of Wellington, or explore the natural wonders of Christchurch, New Zealand offers diverse opportunities for higher education. If you are an international student looking to study in New Zealand and have taken the TOEFL, read on to find out which universities you can apply to.
TOEFL Scores Accepted at New Zealand Universities
The table below uses TOEFL iBT scores on the 120-point scale. Some universities now also list TOEFL iBT scores on the newer 6-point scale for tests taken from January 2026 onward, so always check the official university page for the latest score scale, section requirements, and program-specific exceptions.
These are general minimums for many standard programs. Some pathway, diploma, professional, teaching, law, health, and postgraduate programs may have different or higher TOEFL requirements.
1. University of Auckland
As the first institution on our list, the University of Auckland in New Zealand sets specific English language requirements for international students. On the TOEFL iBT 120-point scale, a minimum overall score of 80 with a writing score of 21 is required for undergraduate study, while most postgraduate programs require an overall score of 90 with a writing score of 21.
Achieving the specified TOEFL scores satisfies the university’s English language requirements and helps students adapt to the English-speaking academic environment at one of New Zealand’s leading universities.
2. University of Otago
Moving on to the next school on our list, the University of Otago is a highly sought-after destination for higher education. With English language requirements in place, this institution in New Zealand accepts TOEFL iBT scores as proof of English proficiency.
For the TOEFL iBT 120-point scale, the university generally requires an overall score of 80 with a writing score of 20 for undergraduate study and an overall score of 90 with a writing score of 21 for postgraduate study. Some programs have higher requirements. For example, the Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social and Community Work Applied require an overall score of 95 with a writing score of 22, while Master of Laws, Master of International Studies, and PhD in Law applicants need an overall score of 102 or better, with a minimum of 24 in each section.
Here is what University of Otago Scholars say about TOEFL:
“After securing a supervisor, I sat for the TOEFL, which was a requirement for the scholarship. The minimum score for PhD applicants was 95. I prepared by watching countless YouTube videos until I felt confident enough to take the test, and I scored 100.”
Shirley Gabriella Achieng
3. Victoria University of Wellington
Founded in 1897 and situated in the capital city of New Zealand, Victoria University of Wellington is recognized for its humanities, social sciences, and creative arts programs. As an international student aspiring to study at this institution, meeting the school’s English language requirements is crucial.
Victoria University of Wellington typically expects a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 for most undergraduate programs and 90 for most postgraduate programs. Some programs may require higher scores, so applicants should check the official requirements for their chosen degree.
4. University of Canterbury
Another New Zealand university accepting TOEFL scores is the University of Canterbury in Christchurch. Founded in 1873, it was the second university established in New Zealand.
For TOEFL iBT scores on the 120-point scale, the university generally requires an overall score of 80 for undergraduate study and 90 for postgraduate study. Teaching qualifications have higher English language requirements, including an overall TOEFL iBT score of 98 on the 120-point scale. The university also lists 6-point TOEFL iBT requirements for tests taken from January 21, 2026 onward.
5. Massey University
Massey University is also one of the New Zealand universities that accepts TOEFL scores from international students to prove English language proficiency. International students applying for undergraduate study generally need an overall TOEFL iBT score of 80 with a writing score of 19.
For most sub-doctoral postgraduate study, Massey generally requires an overall TOEFL iBT score of 90 with a writing score of 20. Doctoral and selected professional qualifications may have different requirements, so applicants should check the official entry requirements for their program.
6. University of Waikato
Our exploration of New Zealand universities accepting TOEFL scores now brings us to the University of Waikato. The university lists different TOEFL iBT requirements depending on the level and type of qualification.
Foundation and international diploma pathways may accept an overall TOEFL iBT score of 46 with a writing score of 14. Standard undergraduate, graduate certificate, and graduate diploma programs generally require an overall score of 80 with a writing score of 21. Many postgraduate programs require an overall score of 90 with a writing score of 21, while some professional and specialist programs, such as nursing, law, teaching, and the Master of Professional Studies in Organisational Psychology, require higher scores.
7. Lincoln University
Lincoln University in Christchurch, New Zealand, accepts TOEFL iBT scores as part of its English language requirements. The university lists different minimums depending on the study level and pathway.
For bachelor’s degrees and undergraduate diplomas, Lincoln generally requires an overall TOEFL iBT score of 60 with a writing score of 18. For master’s, PhD, postgraduate diplomas, and postgraduate certificates, it generally requires an overall score of 80 with a writing score of 21 and a speaking score of 18. Pathway programs may have lower requirements, including TOEFL iBT scores of 46 or 53 depending on the program.
8. Auckland University of Technology
Auckland University of Technology also accepts TOEFL iBT scores for international applicants. For bachelor’s degrees, AUT lists an overall TOEFL iBT score of 80, with minimum section scores. For master’s degrees, AUT lists an overall TOEFL iBT score of 90, also with minimum section scores. Applicants should check their specific program page for any higher or additional requirements.
TOEFL Scores of Students Studying in New Zealand
FAQs: TOEFL Acceptance in New Zealand
What TOEFL score do I generally need to study in New Zealand (undergraduate vs. postgraduate)?
For many standard bachelor’s programs in New Zealand, universities list a TOEFL iBT minimum of around 80 on the 120-point scale. For many standard postgraduate programs, the common minimum is around 90. Some programs require higher scores, and many universities now also list 6-point TOEFL iBT equivalents for tests taken from January 2026 onward. Always check the official page for your university and program.
In practice, successful scholars often score above these minimums. For example, Shirley Gabriella Achieng from Kenya, who completed a PhD in Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Otago with a fully funded Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, reports a TOEFL score of 100.
With a range of universities accepting TOEFL scores, students can discover many opportunities in New Zealand. From the urban atmosphere of Auckland to the tranquil campus environment of Lincoln University, these institutions provide options for students pursuing higher education. Start by reviewing the official TOEFL requirements for your chosen university and program.
We hope this article has been informative! Make sure to also check out our Study in NZ Page and Available Programs for International Students for more information on scholarships and universities across the globe!
