New Zealand Certificate in English Language (General) (Level 3)
For speakers who can already use intermediate-level English in everyday settings but want to improve their English for study or work.
Domestic
July
About the programme
Want to improve your English skills?
Study English at Otago Polytechnic to prepare for further study, make new friends and experience New Zealand culture.
When you study with us you will:
- learn English from teachers who are very patient and understanding.
- work in small groups to practise your speaking.
- meet native speakers and listen to guest speakers.
- gain study skills through self-directed learning and group work.
This Certificate is for speakers who can already use intermediate-level English in everyday settings but want to improve their English for study or work. It is a nationally-recognised qualification. It can lead to academic study at Otago Polytechnic or you can use it to transfer to other study institutes in New Zealand.
Studying part-time
We know full-time study isn't always possible. We offer this programme with part-time options - talk to us about what will suit you best.
International
July
About the programme
Want to improve your English skills?
Study English at Otago Polytechnic to prepare for further study, make new friends and experience New Zealand culture.
When you study with us you will:
- learn English from teachers who are very patient and understanding.
- work in small groups to practise your speaking.
- meet native speakers and listen to guest speakers.
- gain study skills through self-directed learning and group work.
This Certificate is for speakers who can already use intermediate-level English in everyday settings but want to improve their English for study or work. It is a nationally-recognised qualification. It can lead to academic study at Otago Polytechnic or you can use it to transfer to other study institutes in New Zealand.
What You Study
What you will learn
When you complete this programme you will be able to:
- understand the main points and details of spoken and written information on familiar topics
- speak with confidence about familiar topics
- write about familiar topics in a way that is easy to understand.
What to study next
You can enrol in other certificate programmes, but we recommend that you complete New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Academic) (Level 4).
Workload
Your workload
- 22 hours a week in class, guided by your teacher
- 10-14 hours a week for self-directed study
Entry
Fees
Domestic fees
International fees
Additional costs
You will need to buy the course textbook at the start of your course. This will be available from your lecturer for a discounted price of $70.00.
Tuition fees
The tuition fees shown above are approximate only. There may be a slight fee increase per year once Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) rules and guidelines are applied. These fees also don’t include additional costs or living costs.
Studylink
Domestic full-time students can apply for a student loan through Studylink.
Some support may be available for domestic part-time students if this programme offers a part-time study option.
Apply at the same time as you apply for your course (you can withdraw your application anytime).
Student Services Fee
For most students, your tuition fee shown above includes a Student Services Fee – also known as the Student Levy. This compulsory fee covers your access to the student services we offer. This cost is tailored depending on how you're studying.
The international tuition fee does not include your Student Levy. This will be calculated when you enrol with us.
Click below to find out more about the Student Levy costs and services provided.
Fees Free
The Government has announced that Fees Free for the first year of study or training will finish at the end of 2024. A final-year Fees Free policy will replace it, starting from 1 January 2025.
If you are a first-time tertiary learner in 2025, you may be able to get Fees Free for your final year of study or training. If you are eligible, you will need to apply for your entitlement through IRD from 2026 onwards.
For more information about the transition from first-year Fees Free or the final-year Fees Free policy, visit FeesFree.govt.nz.
Study Grants for international students
We have a range of Study Grants to support our international students.
Application
A change for 2023 enrolments
When you apply to study with Otago Polytechnic in 2023, you will be enrolled with Te Pūkenga, the new national network of vocational and applied education in Aotearoa New Zealand. You will learn in the same way, in the same place, and with the same people, and you will graduate with a Te Pūkenga qualification.
