It is designed for people who use English as an additional language and want to develop the academic English skills needed for further study in New Zealand, particularly at diploma or degree level. Q2. What English level do I need to enrol? You need English-language proficiency equivalent to CEFR Low B2 and must be ready for academic study preparation. We confirm your level through the approved entry evidence and placement process.
New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Academic) (Level 4)
Build the reading, writing, listening and speaking skills you need for higher-level study in New Zealand. Develop confidence with academic texts, discussions, presentations, research and written assignments in a supportive classroom environment.
- On campus
Next intake: 26 October 2026
About the programme
Build the academic English skills to take your next study step.
This programme is intended for learners who use English as an additional language and want to improve their academic English for further study in New Zealand, particularly at diploma or degree level.
In a supportive face-to-face learning environment, you will develop confidence and capability across reading, writing, listening and speaking. You will research, process, discuss and evaluate academic information while learning to understand and produce moderately complex spoken and written texts.
English for your academic pathway
Prepare for the language demands of higher-level study, including lectures, academic discussions, presentations, research, essays, reports and referencing.
Entry requirements
For learners ready to prepare for academic study in English.
This programme is designed for learners aged 18 or over who have English as an additional language and are working towards diploma, degree-level or other higher-level study in New Zealand.
Placement process
Before the programme begins, applicants complete a placement process comprising a computer-based listening, grammar, reading and vocabulary test, a written test and an interview.
Required level
Applicants must demonstrate English-language proficiency equivalent to CEFR Low B2 and readiness for academic study preparation.
English proficiency
Evidence of English Proficiency
New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Applied) (Level 3), or an equivalent qualification.
NCEA Level 3 with evidence of two years of English-medium study.
Overall score of 5.5, with no band below 5.0. Online IELTS is not accepted.
42–49.
B2 Communicator.
FCE 162–168.
46–59.
Grade C in all sub-tests.
How it works
What makes this programme effective?
Academic pathway focus
Every learning outcome and assessment supports the transition into higher-level English-medium study.
Four integrated language skills
Develop listening, speaking, reading and writing together in realistic academic contexts.
Practical academic tasks
Build experience with lectures, discussions, presentations, research, essays, reports, reflective writing and referencing.
Supportive classroom learning
Learn through teacher-led instruction, guided practice, group work and individual academic activities.
Regular progress feedback
Use formative activities and feedback to build confidence before summative assessment.
The programme
Develop academic English through relevant, engaging topics.
The programme develops the language skills required to participate in academic discourse and understand and produce moderately complex academic texts in an English-medium learning environment.
Develop academic reading skills by analysing education-related texts and writing clear, well-structured evaluations.
Strengthen your listening skills by understanding lectures, presentations and formal academic discussions about technology.
Build confidence in academic speaking through oral presentations and sustained discussions about travel and tourism topics.
Develop research-based reading and writing skills using health-related academic texts, sources and research questions.
Learn in the classroom
Face-to-face academic English learning with digital support.
The programme is delivered face-to-face at the Manukau campus using learner-centred, academically focused teaching. Digital tools, including Skills Institute's Learning Hive platform, support classroom learning and provide supplementary resources and formative activities.
Teacher-led learning
Build new language and academic skills through clear instruction, modelling and guided practice.Collaborative learning
Take part in group work, presentations, debates and academic discussions.Independent academic work
Complete writing, research and reflective activities that prepare you for tertiary study.Digital learning support
Access supplementary materials and formative activities through Learning Hive.
Graduate outcomes
Listening
Understand main ideas and supporting details in lectures, tutorials and group discussions.
Speaking
Participate effectively in sustained academic discussions, presentations, debates and interactive tasks.
Reading
Understand main ideas and supporting details in moderately complex academic texts, articles and online resources.
Writing
Produce detailed, developed academic texts including essays, reports and reflective journals, using appropriate referencing.
How you will be assessed
Show your progress through authentic academic tasks.
Assessment is competency-based and measures the qualification's graduate outcomes through academic tasks completed in English.
Direct observation
Oral presentations and academic discussions supported by observation checklists.
Structured assessments
Written assignments, academic essays, reports and formal oral presentations.
Integrated projects
Tasks combining listening, reading, writing and speaking in academic contexts.
Portfolios and journals
Evidence of progress in writing, vocabulary and critical thinking.
Response tasks
Short-answer and extended responses assessing comprehension, vocabulary and written accuracy.
Your qualifications
Graduate with an academic English qualification and a clear next step.
Qualification
New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Academic) (Level 4), awarded by Skills Group Training Limited after successful completion of all programme requirements.
Skills Institute pathways
The academic English skills developed through this qualification may support communication and participation in English-speaking workplaces. It does not provide training for a specific occupation.
Other study pathways
This qualification may support progression to Level 4 or Level 5 programmes, including Healthcare and Cookery. It may also help meet the English-language requirements for other tertiary study in New Zealand. Entry is subject to the requirements of the chosen programme and education provider.
Questions
NZCEL Academic Level 4 FAQs
Who is this course designed for?
What English level do I need to enrol?
You need English-language proficiency equivalent to CEFR Low B2 and must be ready for academic study preparation. We confirm your level through the approved entry evidence and placement process.
Do I need an IELTS result?
No. IELTS Academic is one way to demonstrate your English level, but other approved qualifications and tests may also be accepted. You will also complete the Skills Institute placement process before the programme begins.
Can I complete a Skills Institute English assessment instead?
All applicants complete a placement process that includes a computer-based language test, a written test and an interview. Your results help us determine the appropriate NZCEL level for you.
Is the course available to international students?
Yes. This programme is intended for international learners and other eligible learners who meet the entry requirements and hold an appropriate visa where required.
Is the course online or on campus?
The programme is delivered face-to-face at the Skills Institute Manukau campus, with Learning Hive used for supplementary resources and formative activities.
How long does the course take?
The programme takes 20 weeks of full-time study.
What will I learn?
You will develop academic listening, speaking, reading and writing through topics including education, technology, travel and health. Activities include lectures, discussions, presentations, research, essays, reports and reflective writing.
How will I be assessed?
You will complete competency-based academic tasks, including presentations, discussions, essays, reports, integrated projects, portfolios, journals and comprehension activities. All assessments are completed in English.
What qualification will I receive?
After successfully completing the programme, you will receive the New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Academic) (Level 4).
Can this qualification replace IELTS?
The qualification may be accepted as evidence of English-language ability for some further-study programmes. Requirements vary, so check with the education provider offering the programme you want to enter.
What support is available if I need help?
You will receive tutor guidance, academic support and access to pastoral care support while studying. Contact the International Team if you need help or are unsure which service to use.
How do I apply?
Register your interest or email [email protected].