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New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Level 1)
EL1501
Course details
-
Feb 2026July 2026
- 17 weeks
- Full-time or Part-time
- Fees-free for New Zealand residents and citizens (usually $4,124)*
- Level 1
- Available for International Students. International Fee Guideline
- Hamilton City Campus
Summary
This programme is for those with minimal capability in English who wish to develop their basic English skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking.
Students will learn the appropriate communication skills to use and understand simple English for everyday, familiar situations, and will develop their study skills through face-to-face, independent, and online learning.
This programme is at a level comparable to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) A2.
The New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Level 1) offers the necessary language proficiency for entry into further English language programmes, usually NZCEL (Level 2).
Career/further opportunities
The New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Level 1) offers the necessary language proficiency for entry into further English language programmes, usually NZCEL (Level 2).
Scholarships
A range of study grants may be available for those domestic students learning English as a second language. For more information click here.
Events
Disclaimers
Entry criteria
General academic admission
a) To be eligible for this programme, candidates must be 16 years or older, and must demonstrate appropriate language proficiency, as determined by the Centre for Languages in accordance with Wintec’s Academic Regulations.
Selection criteria
a) Candidates must be 16 years or older.
b) Candidates must have achieved NZCEL (Foundation) (Level 1)
c) Candidates must take part in a selection interview and will be required to take a placement test to determine their current English
Language level and learning goals.
d) Candidates must demonstrate a reasonable chance of success in the programme.
English language requirements
Placement in this programme will be determined by the Centre for Languages Placement Test according to language proficiency.
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Don't meet the entry criteria?
Pathways
To check what you need to gain direct entry to a course, review the entry criteria available on each programme page. These assist you in understanding what qualifications or experience are typically required to gain entry. You can contact our team at info@wintec.ac.nz or 0800 2 Wintec at any time for further guidance.
Your first day
Are you ready for your first day of class? Check out your start date and where you need to be. You can also find useful information about studying at Wintec on our welcome page.
Semester 1 2026
Date: Monday 16th February 2026
Time: 10am - 12pm
Venue: The Atrium, City Campus
Semester 2 2026
Date: Monday 20th July 2026
Time: 10am - 12pm
Venue: The Atrium, City Campus
Prospectus (course guide)
The Wintec Prospectus (otherwise known as a course guide) outlines everything you need to know about Wintec. It contains information about the Wintec campuses, student life, and the programmes that are on offer.
Access your copy of the Wintec Prospectus
The Wintec Prospectus (course guide) is available by downloading the file - click on the document below to access the file. Alternatively, to request a copy via email or the post, please complete the form below.
Request an emailable or printed copy of the Prospectus
Portfolio
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