New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment (Level 4) Open Pathway
Gain the academic skills required for a range of diplomas and degrees
This six-month programme is designed to build your skills for long-term academic and career success by ensuring the essential layers of learning are in place. It covers a variety of subjects aimed at preparing you for the following programmes:
- New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies
- Bachelor of Applied Management
- Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications
- Bachelor of Social Work
- Bachelor of Sustainability and Outdoor Education
Available part-time up to 2 years.
Fees for 2025
40 credits NCEA Level 2, including 10 Level 1 Literacy credits and 10 Level 1 Mathematic credits (with a strength in Algebra for the Engineering and Construction and ICT Pathways and Numeracy for other pathways)
- Please note that statistics and probability do not count towards this mathematics credits requirement.
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 3)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment (Level 3)
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
- While entry to this programme requires an IELTS level of 5.5 Academic, entry to some of the Ara degrees requires a score of 6.5 or 7.0 Academic.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
Applicants who meet the entry requirements will be accepted into the programme in the order that completed applications are received.
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.
Find out moreNew Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment (Level 4) Open Pathway
Gain the academic skills required for a range of diplomas and degrees
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Certificate |
| Code | NZ2860 |
| Next Starts | February 2025 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 60 |
| Level | 4 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2860-OPC |
Fees for 2025
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
- Study and Employment Pathways PDF, 423 KB
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