Firstly, what is University Entrance? University Entrance is the minimum requirement to gain admission to most undergraduate degree programmes in New Zealand universities. It is essential for international students who would like to pursue tertiary education here. To achieve University Entrance, you must meet specific academic criteria set by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
Meeting University Entrance Requirements
To meet the University Entrance requirements, you’ll need to fulfil all the following criteria:
- NCEA Level 3: Successfully complete a minimum of 60 credits at Level 3 or higher.
- Literacy: Gain 10 credits in the NCEA Literacy co-requisite test.
- Numeracy: Gain 10 credits in the NCEA Numeracy co-requisite test.
- Approved Subjects: Take three approved NCEA Level 3 subjects, and pass at least 14 credits in each subject. It’s important to choose subjects relevant to your intended university course.
That seems like a lot of criteria, but we make it simple at Pakuranga College. If you aim to study at a New Zealand or other international university, we will help tailor your subject selection to meet your goals. When you arrive at the college you will meet with our Careers Advisors, who will help you to choose courses based on your objectives and work alongside you to ensure you are on track to gain University Entrance.
New Zealand universities accept all student applications that meet the above requirements, which means there are no additional entrance exams for tertiary courses.
I think the pathway to university is a little easier and there are more chances to be accepted, I’m planning to study at the University of Auckland after school. I want to do a Bachelor of Design.
Katherine, China
NCEA is an Asset for International Tertiary Study
Gaining an NCEA qualification offers more than just meeting the University Entrance requirements in New Zealand. It can also be a valuable asset when applying for overseas tertiary education. Here’s how:
- International Recognition: NCEA is recognised globally and respected by universities and colleges worldwide. This qualification assures institutions that you have completed a rigorous programme of learning.
- Flexible Entry: NCEA provides a flexible framework, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and goals. This flexibility can be especially helpful when applying to institutions with specific entry requirements.
- Subject Relevance: NCEA encourages students to choose subjects that align with their intended area of study. This demonstrates to overseas institutions that you have a strong foundation in your chosen field.
- English Language Proficiency: International students who complete NCEA demonstrate their English language proficiency, a crucial skill for success in higher education abroad.
- Merit and Excellence Endorsements: Earning Merit or Excellence endorsements, which are awarded for higher standards of academic achievement, can set you apart from other applicants, making you a more attractive candidate for overseas universities.
Gaining University Entrance in New Zealand is a significant achievement for students. It opens a world of opportunity for tertiary education here and internationally. By understanding the requirements and planning your study, you can successfully meet the criteria and open the door to your future with a little help from us.
