What is the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQA)?

NZQA's role in the education sector is to ensure that New Zealand qualifications are regarded as credible and robust, nationally and internationally, in order to help learners succeed in their chosen endeavours and to contribute to New Zealand society.

NZQA is responsible for:

  • managing the New Zealand Qualifications Framework
  • administering the secondary school assessment system
  • independent quality assurance of non-university education providers
  • qualifications recognition and standard-setting for some specified unit standards

Read Rule 22 English Language Requirements

The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) sets English language entry requirements for international students - these requirements are known as 'Rule 22'.

If the approved entry requirements for your chosen programme are higher than those listed in Rule 22, you must meet the higher level required by Unitec.

Please note that decline rates may impact your English Language Requirements. The current student visa decline rates can be viewed at the Immigration New Zealand's website.

For more information on Internationally Recognised English Proficiency Outcomes for International Students, please refer to the NZQA website.

How we can help

If you need help accessing or understanding Rule 22, we have a range of support staff that you can ask for assistance:

  1. You can ask your Unitec agent
  2. Contact our International Support team
  3. Contact our International Enrolment Assistance
  4. Alternatively, you can call us on +64 9 815 4321
  5. Or for more information, please visit the NZQA website

Unitec English Language Programmes

Unitec's English language programmes will improve your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. From elementary to advanced English speakers, you can study English as a second language at different levels.