International English for Speakers of Other Languages (IESOL)
The NZCB International English for Speakers of Other Languages (IESOL) program is a flexible training program made up of 8-week modules. These modules can be combined to create a full-year, full-time training program designed to prepare students for English Proficiency tests (LanguageCert) and to advance their academic and social skills. Successful completion of this program enables students to apply for admission to Canterbury, Lincoln, and Massey universities, in addition to the IESOL program. This program holds international recognition and is accredited by NZQA. It aligns with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), validating the attainment of skills and knowledge within the IESOL training curriculum.
LanguageCert International ESOL qualifications cater to individuals who are not native English speakers and aspire to obtain a globally recognised English qualification of high quality. These qualifications are available and acknowledged worldwide. At the highest level (NQF level 3/CEF C2), they are designed for candidates preparing for entry into higher education or professional employment in the UK, New Zealand, or other countries.
Who is the International ESOL program intended for?
- Individuals who are non-native English speakers from all around the world.
- Young people or adults participating in English courses within New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or overseas.
- Students who are learning English as part of their school or college curriculum.
- Individuals who require English for their daily life or professional endeavours.
- Learners in need of internationally recognised certification for their English proficiency levels.
- Those who are enrolled in extended courses and require a series of graded examinations that allow them to progress in their language proficiency.
- Learners taking short English courses.
Available levels:

Entry Requirements:
For entry into Preliminary to Communicator Levels (Level 1 and 2)
NZCB will use either student provided international examination results, eg IELTS, or after an interview to judge fluency, or use an appropriate City and Guilds practice examination to determine student’s entry competence. Student must meet NZ immigration requirements and have, as a very minimum (for the preliminary level), an understanding of the Roman alphabet.
For entry into Expert and/or Mastery Level (level 3)
Students
- Must meet NZ Immigration requirements
- Must have a minimum of IELTS 5.0 with no band score lower than 5, or meet other requirements of NZQA’s acceptable evidence of English language proficiency
Study Options:
Full time on-site AND Full time online
Class times:
9.00am – 3.30pm, Monday – Friday with some time allocated for self-study
International English for Speakers of Other Languages (IESOL)
Course Link

Enrol for onsite study

Enrol for online study

| Course Start Dates |
| 12 January 2026 9 February 2026 9 March 2026 6 April 2026 (Start on the 7th; the 6th is a public holiday) 4 May 2026 8 June 2026 6 July 2026 3 August 2026 31 August 2026 28 September 2026 26 October 2026 (Start on the 27th; the 26th is a public holiday) 23 November 2026 |
| 2026 Public Holidays. |
| New Year’s Day – Thursday, 1 January Day after New Year’s Day – Friday, 2 January Waitangi Day – Friday, 6 February Good Friday – Friday, 3 April Easter Monday – Monday, 6 April Anzac Day – Saturday, 25 April (observed on Monday, 27 April) King’s Birthday – Monday, 1 June Matariki – Friday, 10 July Labour Day – Monday, 26 October Canterbury Anniversary Day – Friday, 13 November Christmas Day – Friday, 25 December Boxing Day – Saturday, 26 December (observed on Monday, 28 December) |
| Please note: |
| NZCB Holiday Notice New Zealand College of Business will be closed for the holiday break from 20 December 2025 to 11 January 2026. All classes will proceed subject to minimum enrolment numbers, and course dates may be adjusted if necessary. For the latest updates or confirmation of class schedules, please contact office@nzcb.ac.nz |