Program Overview

Certificate in English Language (Foundation)

Overview

The New Zealand Certificates in English comprise of eight English language programmes from foundation through to advanced level. These programmes give you the language skills and knowledge useful for living and working in New Zealand.

What will I study

The Foundation Level 1 programme enables learners to communicate with support in very basic, familiar and everyday situations.

Pathway

This programme is available full time and consists of 18 weeks (6 months) of intensive learning. It is also available part-time over 36 weeks (12 months).

Details

Academic Requirements

This programme has open entry.

English Requirements

There is no specific English language entry requirement as English level will be assessed through placement testing.

• Applicants who present current and valid evidence of previous English language study will have this taken into account in placement decisions

Selection Criteria

The level of the programme in which the student enrols will be determined by an initial placement test.

• Placement tests are held prior to the start of each semester and consist of a computer-based test of listening, grammar, reading and vocabulary, a written test and an interview
• All applicants are offered a place in the appropriate level certificate

Funding assistance

If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.

Core courses

• English Listening 1A (EALL100) - 15 credits
• English Reading 1A (EALR100) - 15 credits
• English Speaking 1A (EALS100) - 15 credits
• English Writing 1A (EALW100) - 15 credits

Career opportunities

Successful completion of this programme will give you the confidence to communicate effectively in the English language. From level 3 upwards, you may choose to study a workplace or professional qualifier, which may be used as evidence of English language level when seeking employment.

Study pathways

This certificate leads to further study at the next level.

Once you complete the certificate at level 3 or above you may meet the language requirements for other programmes of study.

New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Foundation)

• Type: Certificate
• Code: NZ1879
• Next Starts: February 2026
• Credits: 60
• Level: 1
• May be eligible for Studylink: Yes
• Available Part time: Yes
• May be eligible for Fees Free: Yes
• Reference: NZ1879-STRU

Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.

Documents

• Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 427 KB
• International Application Form PDF, 358 KB

Area of Interest

• English

Program Details

• Full-time: 20 Weeks (Part-time options available)
• Start date: 09 February 2026