Program Overview

Certificate of Attainment in English Language

The Certificate of Attainment in English Language (CAEL) is offered at the University of Waikato College, with eight levels, from Elementary to Advanced. Students can enter into the course at a level dependent on their current English level.

Points and Duration

• The total number of points to gain this qualification is 43.
• The expected duration to complete this qualification full-time is 10 weeks.

Locations

• The qualification is offered in Hamilton.

Area of Study

• The qualification is offered under the University of Waikato College.

Start Dates

• The qualification can be started in various trimesters, with specific start dates provided below.

Degree Information

Entry Requirements

• Domestic students and international students have different entry requirements.
• For all tests accepted as part of English language proficiency, please refer to the Entry Requirements page under the Pathways Options tab.

Fees and Scholarships

• Domestic tuition fees are approximate and may change.
• Scholarships are available, and more information can be found on the Scholarship finder.

Program Structure

• Classes focus on the skills needed for successful study in higher education in New Zealand, such as academic writing, listening, note-taking, reading, and oral presentation skills.
• Higher levels will be endorsed with Academic English and can provide direct entry to university programmes.

Progression Opportunities

• Upon successful completion of the Certificate of Attainment in English Language Level 6, students can progress to the Foundation Studies or International Diploma programmes at the University of Waikato College.
• Upon successful completion of the Certificate of Attainment in English Language Level 7, students can progress to the Diploma in Postgraduate Preparation at the University of Waikato College or most undergraduate degree courses at the University of Waikato.
• Upon successful completion of the Certificate of Attainment in English Language Level 8, students can progress to most postgraduate degree courses at the University of Waikato.

Duration and Dates

• Each level is taught in a 10-week block, with 23 hours of tuition per week on campus, and one-week orientation.
• Specific dates for 2026 blocks are provided:
  • 2026 Block 1: Orientation on February 25, 2026, and block dates from March 2, 2026, to April 2, 2026.
  • 2026 Block 2: Orientation on May 27, 2026, and block dates from June 2, 2026, to August 7, 2026.
  • 2026 Block 3: Orientation on August 19, 2026, and block dates from August 24, 2026, to October 30, 2026.
  • 2026 Block 4: Orientation on November 11, 2026, and block dates from November 16, 2026, to December 18, 2026, and from January 5, 2027, to February 5, 2027.