New Zealand Education System

Any Age

Non-Compulsory

Universities, Institutes of Technology Polytechnics, Colleges of Education, Private Training Establishments - all offering Certificates, Diplomas, Degrees, Post Graduate Qualifications, Masters and Doctorates.

Overseas Universities and Tertiary Institutions

Ages 13-18; Years 9-13

Compulsory until age 16

Year 13: NCEA 3. The minimum level of entry to university in NZ is with 42 credits at level 3 or higher.

Year 12: NCEA 2

Year 11: NCEA 1

British A Level/Australia Higher School Certificate.

British General Certificate of Secondary Education.

Ages 11-12; Years 7 & 8

Compulsory

Intermediate education offered at either primary or secondary schools, or at a stand-alone state sector intermediate school.

Ages 5-10; Years 1-6

Compulsory from age 6

Private or state sector providers, co-educational or single-sex available. Primary education develops literacy and numeracy skills.