Introduction

The Cambridge Exam is an English exam created by the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom in 1858 to determine whether non-native English speakers understand English and have the ability to use it in real life.   

It is conducted in more than 130 countries around the world, accepted by over 25,000 organisations worldwide, and is considered as the most reliable English test in the world. 

As the Cambridge Exam is used by international students to enter colleges and universities in New Zealand, it is an extremely popular and common course for international students to take.   

Why Study the Cambridge Course in NZ?

  • Reputation of NZ education institutions:  

New Zealand universities and schools are well-known for their high quality of teaching and infrastructure. All eight universities in New Zealand are ranked in the top 3% in the world. To support international students to meet English requirement for enrollment in these universities, New Zealand Government allows English schools to open Cambridge English and Cambridge exam preparation courses. The operation of all these courses is strictly monitored to ensure their standards and quality.  

  • Diverse program: 

New Zealand is a native English-speaking country, creating a great environment for international students to immerse into English. A wide range of English language programs are available; you can take a course depending on your current level of language proficiency.  

  • Safe and welcoming environment:  

New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world, consistently ranked in the top 5 on the Global Peace Index. The country’s friendly and inclusive society ensures that international students feel secure and supported during their time in New Zealand. 

  • High visa grant rate:  

Currently, NZ has a higher visa grant rate for international students among different nationalities and profiles. 

  • Employment opportunities:  

International students in NZ are eligible for work for up to 20 hours a week.  

Programs for International Students

  • Study Cambridge B2 First (FCE) in NZ: It is a thorough test of all areas of language ability at an Upper Intermediate level. It covers the four main language skills: reading (+ use of English), writing, listening and speaking.  
  • Study Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) Preparation courses in NZ: It is a thorough test of all areas of language ability at an Advanced level. The format of the exam is divided into reading (+ use of English), writing, listening and speaking. 
  • Study Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE) in NZ: It is a thorough test of all areas of language ability at a Proficiency level. The format of the exam is broken into four main sections: reading (+ use of English), writing, listening and speaking. 

Top Schools for the Cambridge Course

New Zealand Language Centres (NZLC): Established in 1984, NZLC is one of the largest English schools in New Zealand and offers a wide range of high-quality English language courses (like General English, Business English, English Test Preparation course and more), providing students with the highest standard of English language. NZLC is in the top NZQA ranking of language schools in New Zealand (NZQA Category Level 1 School). 

Worldwide School of English: Founded in 1989 and based in Auckland WWSE has become one of New Zealand’s premium English Language Schools. Located in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, it has excellent facilities to maximise learning opportunities and optimise students’ cultural identity. WWSE is rated NZQA Category Level 1 School. 

Entry Requirements

  • English requirement: Yes, at least upper-intermediate level or above. 
  • Academic requirement: there is not an academic requirement.

Tuition Fee for Cambridge Course

Fees can range between NZ $290 – NZ $390

Career Outcomes

Cambridge English Qualifications are in-depth exams that are a mark of excellence, trusted by thousands of organisations worldwide. So, whether you are planning to live, work or study at home or abroad, these courses can open doors to exciting opportunities. 

  • Work and live in an English-speaking environment: From April 2024, Immigration New Zealand accepts B2 First and C1 Advanced scores for student visa applications and many other visa programs. Therefore, the student only needs to take this one exam to use to get a visa, or to apply for university. 
  • Study in New Zealand: All universities in New Zealand accept C1 Advanced for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and many will also accept Cambridge English Qualifications for pathway and foundation courses. 

FAQs

How do I apply for a Cambridge course in New Zealand?

You can contact SOL Edu and we will help you with all the school application process and the visa application process.

Can I work while studying in New Zealand?

If your English course is for a minimum of 24 weeks, you could work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time on holidays.

What are the post-study opportunities after completing Cambridge courses?

You could apply for and pathways to a permanent residency in vocational, higher education.

What is the class size in these types of courses?

It can vary from 12 to 16 students per class.

What is the course duration?

It depends on the type of course but theses courses can go from 10 weeks to 12 weeks.

Can I start any day of the year?

No, unfortunately these types of courses have specific intake dates. Let us know when you want to start, and we will help you to find a suitable intake date.