English Requirements for Pharmacists in Australia and New Zealand

Aug 27, 2024 2 min read
English Requirements for Pharmacists in Australia

Are you a pharmacist who dreams of working in Australia or New Zealand? If so, then you should know that proving your English language proficiency is an important step in achieving this goal.  Australia and New Zealand have specific language requirements to ensure pharmacists can communicate correctly with patients and colleagues, maintaining the high standards of healthcare they are known for. 

So let us have a comprehensive look at the specific English language requirements for Pharmacists aiming to establish their dream career in Australia and New Zealand.

Australia

To practise as a Pharmacist in Australia, international graduates must meet the following English language requirements:

New Zealand

New Zealand requires proof of English proficiency through one of the following tests:

  • IELTS Requirements: Applicants must achieve a minimum score of 7.0 in each section of the Academic IELTS—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—within two years before the application date. 
  • OET Requirements: Candidates must obtain an A or B grade in each of the four sections—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—within two years before applying. Multiple OET test results taken within this period are accepted if necessary. 

Country

Test

Requirements

Australia

 

IELTS Academic

Overall score of at least 7.5, with no band score below 7.0.

 

 

OET

A minimum grade of B in all four components.

 

 

PTE Academic

 

Overall score of 78, with no communicative skill score below 70.

 

 

TOEFL iBT

 

Total score of 94.

New Zealand

 

IELTS Academic

Minimum score of 7.0 in each of the four sections.

 

 

OET

Achieve an A or B in each of the four sections.

Choosing the Right Test

When deciding which English language test to take, think about your personal strengths and weaknesses in English and choose a test that aligns with your abilities. Let’s have a look at the following important factors,

When deciding which English language test to take, think about your personal strengths and weaknesses in English and choose a test that aligns with your abilities. Let's have a look at the following important factors,

  • Test Format: Choose a test pattern that suits your strengths. For instance, if you prefer computer-based tests, the TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic might be more suitable.
  • Preparation: Ensure you have enough time to prepare for the test. Utilise practice materials and consider taking preparatory courses if necessary.
  • Test Centers: Check the availability of test centres in your area and how frequently they're being conducted.

Conclusion

Meeting these English language requirements is an important step for Pharmacists who wish to work in Australia and New Zealand. Understanding these requirements and preparing for them will help ensure you are well-equipped to provide high-quality healthcare in these countries. At Academically, we specialise in helping international pharmacy graduates like you achieve these goals effectively. Our tailored courses ensure you're well-prepared for exams like IELTS, OET, and PTE. 

Join Academically today and pave the way for a successful career abroad!

Aqsa Ahmed
Aqsa Ahmed
about the author

Aqsa Ahmed is an aspiring medical writer with a strong passion for communicating healthcare topics to non-medical audiences. Motivated by a love for contemporary literature, she believes in using literature to increase awareness about complex medical topics and diagnostic procedures in an attempt to eliminate prejudice surrounding medical science and improve public health understanding.