Why Study / Key Benefits

• IPU New Zealand’s English Language Studies programme is designed for international students who want to improve their English communication and academic skills before progressing to tertiary-level study.
• Students develop the four core English skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing.
• The programme also develops presentation, discussion, debate, research, computer and general study skills.
• Classes are learner-centred and organised according to students’ English ability, with a maximum class size of 18 students.
• Students can learn about New Zealand and M?ori culture through activities outside the classroom.
• The programme can prepare students for further study at IPU or other tertiary institutions. IPU states that graduates have progressed to bachelor’s and master’s study and to vocational programmes such as carpentry and aviation

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The programme is built around the four core language skills:

• Listening
• Reading
• Speaking
• Writing

IPU also identifies the following programme components:

• Discussions and debates
• Preparation for specialised/future education
• Presentation skills
• Study skills
• Research skills
• Computer skills
• Academic English development

The detailed paper structure varies by level. The 2025 Academic Handbook confirms, for example:

Level 1:

• Reading 1 – 15 credits
• Writing 1 – 15 credits
• Listening and Speaking 1 – 30 credits
• Total: 60 credits.

Level 5:

• ELS.501 Reading 5 – 15 credits
• ELS.502 Writing 5 – 15 credits
• ELS.503 Listening 5 – 15 credits
• ELS.504 Speaking 5 – 15 credits
• Total: 60 credits.

Disciplines / Specialisations

• There are no separate subject specialisations listed.
• Students are placed into English Language Studies Levels 1–5 according to their English proficiency.
• Level 5 has a stronger academic-English focus and is intended to prepare students for graduate and postgraduate academic environments.

Programme Highlights

• Levels 1–5 available.
• 60 credits per level.
• Four core English skills are developed at every level.
• Small classes with a maximum of 18 students.
• International lecturers and a multicultural learning environment.
• Academic and general communication skills are developed together.
• Includes study, research and computer skills.
• Preparation for further tertiary education.
• Opportunities to engage with New Zealand and Maori culture. 

Career Outcomes

The programme is primarily an English-language preparation and progression programme rather than a vocational qualification.

IPU identifies the following potential outcomes:

• Progression to higher-level English studies.
• Progression to bachelor’s and master’s degree study.
• Progression to other tertiary or vocational programmes.
• Graduates have also entered administration, hospitality and retail employment.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The current IPU programme page confirms the five-level structure and current English-entry thresholds.
• Students without a recognised English test can undertake a placement test for level allocation.
• English test results should be current. IPU’s student information states that official English-language test scores must generally have been achieved within the two-year period before the expected programme entry date.
• The current programme page states that Level 5 requires IELTS 6.0 with no band below 5.5 for entry.
• International students must arrange their own travel/medical insurance and provide IPU with evidence of their insurance policy before arrival in New Zealand.
• Current 2026 programme-specific intake dates are not shown on the programme page.

International Student Visa Requirements

For an international student studying this programme in New Zealand, the relevant visa is generally the Fee Paying Student Visa, subject to Immigration New Zealand approval.

Immigration New Zealand currently requires students to:

• Have an offer of place from an approved education provider.
• Demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition fees or provide evidence of an acceptable scholarship.
• Demonstrate sufficient funds for living expenses or have an acceptable sponsor.
• Have acceptable medical and travel insurance.
• Meet health and character requirements.
• Demonstrate a genuine reason for studying in New Zealand.
• Show that they can leave New Zealand at the end of their stay.