Programme highlights
This qualification is for those who want to use English for general purposes or gain entry into level 4 certificates.
You will learn the language skills and knowledge you need to participate in further study in a New Zealand tertiary context.
You will also develop the interpersonal and intercultural skills required to study, work and live in the multicultural environment of New Zealand.
This qualification allows the Aotearoa New Zealand community, employers and educational institutions to recognise the level at which you can use English for general or academic purposes.
You may be required to complete literacy and numeracy assessments as part of this programme.
Entry requirements
Applicants must meet the following entry criteria
- Hold an NZCEL Level 3 General or Academic or equivalent; or
- Have an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 5.0, with no scores below 4.5, or equivalent; or
- Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) score of high B1.
The applicant’s previous English learning experience and their current educational /learning goals will be established in a career conversation. A placement test and a writing sample will be collected prior to the career conversation.??An assessment of the applicant’s level in speaking and listening will be determined during the conversation, and placement in the correct programme will be done accordingly.
General requirements
- Be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident; or
- Hold a Certificate of Refugee Status and provide evidence of eligibility to study for the duration of enrolment; or
- Have an appropriate visa.
Give yourself credit with Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Did you know you can use the knowledge and experience you already have to your advantage?
Your previous work experience and on-the-job skills, volunteering, professional development, and other providers’ qualifications can be recognised as prior learning, matched against credits in our courses, and put towards your qualification – potentially saving you money and possibly helping you to complete your qualification faster Learn more.
Programme structure
You will need to complete the below four courses (60 credits):
Do you want to study a single course, without enrolling into the full programme?
Courses within some of our programmes may be offered as an individual Certificate of Proficiency (COP). Programme entry requirements and course fees apply. For more information, please speak to our friendly Ask Me! team.
Further training or study
This certificate builds on the New Zealand Certificate in English Language (General) (Level 3).
Graduates may progress to the New Zealand Certificate in English Language Level 4 (Academic), or gain entry to certificate programmes that have an entry requirement of 5.5 IELTS, particularly in baking, culinary and hospitality, engineering and trades, and business administration.
Career opportunities
Graduates of this certificate will have the English language skills to work in positions that require more complex language.