About the programme
The online New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Academic) Level 5 is an NZQF Level 5 programme of 60 credits at Skill New Zealand that, over 18 weeks of live remote classes, brings academic English up to the standard for Level 8 and higher study, including postgraduate programmes, and can act as an alternative to IELTS.
The online version is mainly for international students outside New Zealand. They join scheduled live classes and do not need a New Zealand visa or medical insurance for this programme. Classes run Monday to Friday, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm New Zealand time (NZST), and the course lasts 18 weeks including a two-week break. International students already living in New Zealand must take the on-campus version.
The content matches the on-campus course: a Unit Standard structure developing four academic skills. Students learn to follow long, complex spoken academic material, take part in extended academic discussion, read demanding academic texts and write organised, extended academic pieces. Experienced tutors use interactive discussion and real-life tasks to build fluency and critical thinking.
The certificate provides a direct language pathway to Skill New Zealand, AUT University and Whitecliffe. It suits learners at around B2 level who want to prepare for master's or postgraduate study in New Zealand before relocating.
Entry requirements
- Minimum age: 16 for domestic students and 18 for international students at enrolment and start
- English at CEFR B2: IELTS Academic 6.0 with no band below 5.5, TOEFL iBT 60 (writing 18), Cambridge B2 First 169 (no skill below 162), OET grade C or 200 in all sub-tests, or NZCEL Level 4 (Academic)
- Alternatively, the Skill NZ placement test
- Online delivery is for students outside New Zealand; no visa or insurance is required for it
What you study
- Understanding complex spoken academic texts (listening)
- Extended spoken academic discourse (speaking)
- Reading complex academic texts (reading)
- Writing structured, extended academic texts (writing)
Careers after graduation
- Entry to Level 8 and higher study, including postgraduate programmes
- Direct language pathway to Skill New Zealand
- Direct language pathway to AUT University
- Direct language pathway to Whitecliffe
Post-study work visa
Generally not available for this qualification
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 20/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Whitecliffe website