If you are an African healthcare professional (nurse, doctor, pharmacist, or public health worker) seeking a job abroad, one of the biggest hurdles is English language proficiency tests.
Most countries in Europe, North America, and the Middle East require IELTS or TOEFL as part of the visa, licensing, and recruitment process.
This guide explains:
- Why IELTS/TOEFL are important for healthcare jobs.
- Minimum score requirements for popular destinations.
- How to prepare and register.
- Where to find healthcare job opportunities abroad after passing.
What Are IELTS and TOEFL?
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Widely accepted in the UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): More common for the USA and some European countries.
Both assess speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills, ensuring you can communicate with patients, colleagues, and medical authorities.
African Nurses Wanted in the USA!
Why Do Healthcare Professionals Need IELTS/TOEFL?
- Visa & Immigration Requirements (e.g., UK Tier 2, US H-1B, Canadian PR).
- Professional Licensing Exams (e.g., NCLEX, GMC Registration, HAAD/DHA exams in UAE).
- Employer Requirements (hospitals, clinics, NGOs).
- Better Salary Negotiation higher English proficiency boosts employability.
Minimum Score Requirements (2025)
| Country | Exam | Minimum Score (Healthcare) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK (NMC – Nurses & Midwives Council) | IELTS Academic | 7.0 overall (6.5 writing) | OET also accepted |
| USA (NCLEX + VisaScreen) | TOEFL iBT | 83 (Speaking 26, Writing 24) | Required for visa sponsorship |
| Canada (Express Entry) | IELTS General | CLB 7+ (6.0 in each band) | Required for PR & work |
| Australia (AHPRA – Nurses/Doctors) | IELTS Academic | 7.0 in each band | OET alternative |
| UAE/Qatar/Saudi Arabia (HAAD, DHA, SCFHS) | IELTS Academic | 6.5+ | TOEFL accepted in some cases |
Job Roles Requiring IELTS/TOEFL
- Registered Nurses (UK, Canada, USA)
- Doctors & Specialists (UK GMC, US ECFMG, Canada MCC)
- Pharmacists (US FPGEC, UK GPhC)
- Allied Health Professionals (Physiotherapists, Lab Scientists, Radiographers)
- Public Health & NGO Officers (WHO, UNICEF, MSF)
How to Prepare for IELTS & TOEFL
- Official Prep Resources:
- Free Online Platforms:
- Tips for Healthcare Workers:
- Practice medical scenarios (explaining symptoms, writing prescriptions).
- Focus on speaking clarity for patient communication.
- Use sample healthcare exam materials (OET also useful).
Latest Public Health Jobs
Relevant Healthcare Job Opportunities Abroad
Nursing & Healthcare Jobs
- UK NHS International Recruitment
- O’Grady Peyton International (US Nursing Jobs)
- Canada Healthcare Jobs – Job Bank
- Germany Healthcare Portal
NGO & Global Health Careers
Call to Action
Passing IELTS or TOEFL is your first step to an international healthcare career.
👉 Ready to begin?
Once certified, apply to high-paying healthcare jobs abroad:
