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Can I become a registered nurse in Australia or New Zealand with my current qualifications and gap year?

22 Jun 2026 · Answered by Bhuvaneswari Gobinathan · 1 min read
Bhuvaneswari Gobinathan
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Yes, you are eligible to pursue registration as a nurse in New Zealand with your four-year nursing degree and a gap year.

- Qualification assessment: Your degree will be evaluated by the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) for equivalency to local standards.
- English proficiency: You’ll need an IELTS score of at least 7.0 in each band or an equivalent test, subject to change.
- Competence Assessment Programme (CAP): Most internationally qualified nurses must complete the CAP, which includes theoretical and clinical assessments.
- Experience: You must show at least 1,800 hours of post-registration nursing experience. A gap year is generally acceptable if you meet this requirement.

For Australia, requirements are similar but may differ in details. If you want to explore Australia, let your counsellor know so they can guide you through the specific process.

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