For the UK (NMC) and Australia (NMBA/AHPRA), nurses need IELTS Academic with at least 7 in Listening, Reading and Speaking and 6.5 in Writing (Australia also asks for an overall 7). Ontario, Canada (CNO) asks for an overall 7, with 7 in Listening and Speaking and 6.5 in Reading and Writing, and accepts IELTS Academic or General Training. Rules change, so confirm on your regulator’s website before you book.
What IELTS band score do nurses need for the UK, Australia and Canada?
UK (NMC)
–no separate overall
IELTS Academic. Two sittings can be combined (no score below 6.5, Writing 6).
Australia (NMBA)
7overall
IELTS Academic at a test centre only. Two sittings within 12 months, each overall 7.
Ontario, Canada (CNO)
7overall
Academic or General Training. Other provinces have their own rules.
What does the UK (NMC) accept?
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) accepts IELTS Academic. In a single test, you need at least 7 in Reading, Listening and Speaking and 6.5 in Writing. You can combine two sittings if, across both tests, you have one 7 in Reading, Listening and Speaking and one 6.5 in Writing, and no score in either test is below 6.5 (Listening, Reading, Speaking) or 6 (Writing). Share both certificates and TRF numbers.
What does Australia (NMBA / AHPRA) accept?
You need IELTS Academic with an overall 7, at least 7 in Listening, Reading and Speaking and 6.5 in Writing. Only tests taken at a physical test centre are accepted, not at-home online tests. Two sittings within 12 months can be combined if each has an overall 7, and the IELTS One Skill Retake is accepted within 60 days of the original test.
What does Canada accept?
Each Canadian province has its own nursing regulator. In Ontario, the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) asks for an overall 7, 7 in Listening and Speaking and 6.5 in Reading and Writing. It accepts IELTS Academic results taken within two years of registering, and IELTS General Training results only if taken within two years before you apply. For other provinces, check that province’s regulator.
Should nurses take IELTS Academic or General Training?
IELTS Academic
- UK (NMC)Accepted
- Australia (NMBA)Accepted
- Ontario (CNO)Accepted
- Our adviceSafest choice if you are not sure
IELTS General Training
- UK (NMC)Not accepted
- Australia (NMBA)Not accepted
- Ontario (CNO)Accepted, if taken within 2 years before you apply
- Mostly used forMigration and work visas
Booking the wrong test is a costly mistake, so check the test name before you pay.
Why is Writing often the hardest module for nurses?
Many nurses speak clearly with patients every day, but IELTS Writing tests a formal, structured style.
Common reasons for a low Writing score:
Need a 6.5 or 7 in Writing?Know batch timings and fees for IELTS for Nurses.
How should nurses prepare for each IELTS module?
How long should you prepare for IELTS as a nurse?
It depends on your current level and your target. Start with one full mock test to see your score in each module, then plan backwards from your registration or job deadline.
How does GIEL’s IELTS for Nurses course help?
At GIEL (The Guide Institute Of English Language), New Delhi, the IELTS for Nurses course covers all four modules: Speaking, Writing, Reading and Listening. Practice is built on healthcare situations, and mock tests come with feedback so you know what to fix. You can also build everyday confidence with our Spoken English for Jobs course.
Frequently asked questions
Is IELTS General Training accepted for nursing registration?
Not for the UK (NMC) or Australia (NMBA), which need IELTS Academic. Ontario (CNO) accepts General Training if it is taken within two years before you apply. Always check your regulator’s page before booking.
Can I combine two IELTS results?
Yes, for the UK and Australia, under conditions. The NMC allows two sittings if no score falls below 6.5 (Writing 6). Australia allows two sittings within 12 months if each has an overall 7.
Is the IELTS online test from home accepted for Australia?
No. For Australian nursing registration, only results from a physical test centre are accepted.
How long is an IELTS result valid for nursing in Ontario?
The College of Nurses of Ontario accepts IELTS Academic results taken within two years of registering, and IELTS General Training results only if taken within two years before you apply.
Do these scores change?
Yes, regulators update their rules from time to time. The scores in this guide were checked in October 2026. Confirm on the official website before you book your test.