Skip to main content

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment(Level 3) (Open Pathway)

STARTS: February 2025
Madras Street

Gain the skills and entry requirements needed for Level 4 study at Ara

If you’re at the start of your tertiary learning journey, this six-month programme will 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 Level 4 programmes at Ara:

  • New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing
  • New Zealand Certificate in Music
  • New Zealand Certificate in Performing Arts
  • New Zealand Certificate in Outdoor & Adventure Education
  • Any other New Zealand certificates at Level 4 that require 10 credits in Level 1 literacy and 10 credits in Level 1 numeracy

In addition to core courses designed to equip you with fundamental academic and mathematical skills, you can choose one elective course that relates to your future study needs.

Available part-time up to 2 years.

Fees for 2025

Domestic Fee
$2,758 - $4,000 per year
International Fee
$13,000 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$370.50 per year
Valid To
December 31, 2025

This programme has open entry. English language requirements apply.

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.

Overall IELTS 5.0 Academic

  • 5.0 Listening
  • 5.0 Reading
  • 5.0 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 more
 
Core courses
 
Elective courses

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment(Level 3) (Open Pathway)

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks

Gain the skills and entry requirements needed for Level 4 study at Ara

Information
Type Certificate
Code NZ2863
Next Starts February 2025
May be available for Study Visa? Yes
International application close date NULL
Credits 60
Level 3
Additional Equipment/Fees Advised on enrolment
May be eligible for Studylink? Yes
May be eligible for Fees Free? Yes
Reference NZ2863-OPEP

Fees for 2025

Domestic Fee
$2,758 - $4,000 per year
International Fee
$13,000 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$370.50 per year
Valid To
December 31, 2025
Enquire Now View Dates & Apply
New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) - Open Pathway
Start date: 17 February 2025
Apply

With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…

More

Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.

Find out more

Documents

Key Information for Students

Need some help picking the right course for you?

Send us an enquiry or book a tour and experience Ara for yourself!