Preparing for Your English Language Test for Your Residence Visa Application
The English Language Test. An often dreaded step in the Residence Visa process, and one that has seen even proficient English speakers trip up in their applications.
For most applicants, there is no getting around the test; however, some exceptions are made for applicants who are citizens of a set list of Western countries and have lived, worked, and/or studied in these countries for a specified period.
Every principal applicant in a Residence Visa Application must take and pass an English Language Test. Partners and children aged 16 or older are also required to complete an English test, but they have the option of purchasing ESOL if they do not pass.
Types of English Language Tests for a Residence Visa Application
The main English Language Tests we recommend to our Residence Visa clients are:
• International Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE)
Minimum scores:
Principal applicants will need to achieve:
an overall score of 6.5 or more on IELTS
or an overall score of 58 or more on PTE
Your partner and/or dependent child will need to achieve:
an overall score of 5 or more on IELTS
or an overall score of 36 or more on PTE
So, which test is the easiest?
Each testing system has its pros and cons. We have had some clients (many fluent English speakers) struggle with PTE, but then performed well when they took the IELTS test instead (and vice versa).
One benefit of IELTS is that if you nearly passed and scored a 6.0 on your test, you can retake one of the sections (called a ‘One-skill Retake’) where you didn't do as well, giving you a chance to boost your overall score and hopefully get your results to or above the 6.5 minimum.
However, we don't recommend retaking just one section if you score below a 6.0, as chances are you won’t be able to score the 6.5, no matter how well you do on the One-skill retake. In that case, we suggest retaking the entire IELTS test for a better chance of achieving a higher score.
Preparing for Your English Language Test
Learning any language is hard. It requires constant practice and pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. Some of our clients struggle with speaking English, but excel at reading and writing, while others are proficient in speaking English but find it challenging to read and write. Even if you are a proficient English speaker, we recommend doing the following exercises to help prepare you for your English Language Test:
Practice with mock IELTS or PTE tests
Free mock tests are available for IELTS and PTE exams. These tests are for practice only and will not count towards your score. They can provide an overall idea of what to expect during the actual exam and highlight areas for improvement (e.g., reading, writing, speaking, or listening). Here are a few links to free mock tests:
IELTS Practice Tests
Make time to read more books
Reading has been shown to improve comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary. Whether you enjoy fiction or non-fiction, set aside some time to read more. If you've got kids, try having regular 'reading sessions', read to them before bed or help them with their homework.
Listen to audiobooks
Like reading, listening to audiobooks in English can help you improve your listening and comprehension. You can download and sign up to apps like Audible or Everand, which have a vast selection of fiction and non-fiction audiobooks to choose from. Unlike watching television, listening to audiobooks requires using your complete focus and listening ability. You won't have the distraction of visuals or moving images.
Speak English every day - even if you feel shy
We have clients who can actually speak English at a reasonable level but are often too shy to practice it regularly with others, fearing judgment or embarrassment. The thing is, proficient or native English speakers value the effort that those who are less fluent make to improve their skills and are often more than happy to accommodate.
If you can relate to this, we encourage you to break out of your comfort zone and practice every day, especially with fluent/native English speakers. If you have children who are fluent in English, don't hesitate to practice with them as well.
Keep an English journal
Writing is an excellent way to enhance your overall grammar and vocabulary. Consider keeping a personal journal written entirely in the English language. We recommend a physical journal instead of a digital one. Research has shown that physically writing down thoughts, pen to paper, can help with memory and pattern recognition.
Enrol in an English Language Course
If you are serious about improving your English language ability, it could be time to enrol in an English language course.
Numerous online and in-person English language courses are available. If you have extra time, we encourage you to enrol in an in-person course that allows you to interact with tutors and fellow students face-to-face. In-person courses are great because they put you in real-life social scenarios where you can be free to practice in a supportive learning environment.
Here are some links to English Language courses in NZ:
Everyone's English ability varies – even among proficient speakers, including native English speakers. The key to preparing for your English language test is to fully immerse yourself in learning the language and step out of your comfort zone. Speak, write, read, and listen to English every day as much as you can. The more exposure you have to English, the more you'll improve.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to email arno@nothandco.com or visit our blog for more settling-in tips.
