Qualification Levels

NZCEL Levels Overview

NZQA lists NZCEL qualifications across Levels 1–6. Levels 3, 4 and 5 include different qualifications or strands; see the current official titles and references below.

English language learners

NZCEL levels and qualifications

NZQA lists 13 qualifications. The names below show the qualifications and strands at each level; select a reference to open its official NZQA record. These level labels are not a guaranteed progression or entry pathway.

LevelQualifications / strandsNZQA references
1Foundation; Level 11879; 1880
2Level 21881
3General; Applied; Academic1882; 3667; 4998
4General; Employment; Academic3669; 3668; 1883
5General; Employment; Academic5001; 5000; 1884
6Advanced4999

See the full qualification list and check NZQA for current titles, versions and outcomes.

NZCEL and English proficiency frameworks

NZCEL qualification outcomes may be discussed alongside the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), but an exact equivalence should not be assumed. Mapping can vary by qualification, strand and language skill. For authoritative outcomes, consult the relevant current NZQA qualification record.

Progression Path

1F
Foundation
→
1
Elementary
→
2
Pre-Int
→
3
Intermediate
→
4
Upper-Int
→
5
Level 5
→
6
Advanced
→
6
Advanced

Important Note

The information above describes the national NZCEL qualification framework. Provider offerings may differ. Check the official qualification references and confirm entry criteria with your chosen provider.

Find Your Level

Not sure which NZCEL level is right for you? Check placement arrangements with your chosen provider.