Home Blogs Events Scholarships
  • Study Abroad New
    • Contact

    NZREX Exam Fees 2025: Complete Cost Guide for IMGs

    Apr 29, 2025 3 min read

    Key Takeaways:

    • The NZREX Clinical exam is essential for IMGs to work in New Zealand.
    • Costs include NZREX exam fees, eligibility exams, English tests, and potential travel expenses.
    • Proper financial and academic preparation is key to successfully clearing the NZREX.

    The dream of working as a doctor in New Zealand excites. With over 41% of IMGs working as doctors there, gives hope to rest about becoming a registered doctor in New Zealand. 

    The huge problem comes in terms of the New Zealand Registration Exam. But you know what, this NZREX exam can be easily cleared with proper preparation. The only thing you need to be ready for is the costs involved. These costs can range from NZREX fees to registration. 

    Read this blog till the end to understand how much the NZREX fees is, and everything else you’ll need to know before applying for the NZREX exam. 

    NZREX Exam Fees

    The NZREX Clinical exam is a practical, hands-on exam designed to test your clinical skills. It consists of 16 OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) stations, where you’ll be assessed across on stimulated environment.

    Now, when it comes to the fees, here’s what you’ll need to pay to sit for the NZREX Clinical exam in 2025:

    • Application Fee: NZD 817.06
    • Examination Fee: NZD 4,713.88

    This brings the total cost to about NZD 5,531 just for the exam itself.

    But keep in mind, that’s just one part of the overall financial picture. Before you even get to this stage, there are a few more expenses you need to be ready for.

    Other Exam Costs You Should Know About

    Before you even get a chance to apply for the NZREX Clinical, there’s a checklist of eligibility requirements you need to tick off and sadly, they aren’t free either.

    To qualify for NZREX, you must have passed one of these major exams:

    • AMC Part 1 (Australia): Costs around AUD 2,920
    • USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK (USA): Together costing around USD 2,000 or more
    • PLAB 1 (UK): Costs about GBP 255

    Another eligibility criteria you need to consider is proving your English Proficiency. This can be done by taking exams like IELTS or OET, which costs around NZD 400.

    Is the NZREX Fees Worth It?

    Now comes the part you’ve been waiting for, is it actually worth spending so much to take the NZREX?

    Short answer: Yes. Big time.

    Here’s why: The average salary for a registered doctor in New Zealand is around NZD 120,000 per year.

    Even if you start out in a junior role, you’re likely to recover your entire investment, exam fees, travel, everything, within just a few months of working.

    So, while the upfront cost might feel overwhelming, think of it as a one-time investment into a career and life that could be everything you’ve dreamed of.

    Final Words

    You might wonder if it is actually necessary to take the exam and move to New Zealand. But apart from the costs, look at the future, better salary, lifestyle, career growth, free education and healthcare for family and more. 

    All you need to do is enroll in the best NZREX Clinical preparation course and pass the exam on the first attempt!

    If you are someone who is looking for better opportunities in New Zealand, fill out this form. You will get personalised guidance for your career. 

    FAQs

    Q. How much does it cost to become a doctor in New Zealand?

    A. To become a doctor in New Zealand, IMGs have to take the New Zealand Registration Examination (NZREX). The application fees for the NZREX is NZD 817.06 and the examination fee is NZD 4,713.88. Apart from this you will also have to spend on proving English proficiency and eligibility for NZREX.

    Q. Can I work in New Zealand with USMLE?

    A. Yes, you can work in New Zealand if you have passed the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2. Then, you will have to take the New Zealand Registration Examination (NZREX) to register yourself as a doctor.

    Q. How much do doctors get paid in New Zealand?

    A. On average, doctors in New Zealand get NZD 120,000. This salary might differ according to the location, position and experience.

    Q. Can foreign doctors practice in New Zealand?

    A. Yes, foreign doctors can practise in New Zealand. But they have to pass the New Zealand Registration Examination (NZREX).
    TAGS
    Dr. Indu K
    about the author

    Dr. Indu K is a dentist with one year of clinical experience. She seamlessly transitioned into content writing three years ago. Her passion lies in making complex medical information accessible to everyone. She uses her unique blend of medical knowledge and exceptional writing skills to bridge the gap between healthcare and the general audience.

    Must Read Articles