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New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)

Get your career in automotive engineering off to the best start.

This automotive qualification is designed to give you all the fundamental knowledge required to work in the industry. This is achieved through a combination of the theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on tasks similar to the daily tasks undertaken in the workplace.

There are two delivery options:

Full-time, one year
For learners who have little or no experience in automotive engineering.

Part-time, two years (Chch only)
For learners who are in an apprenticeship in industry and who require the qualification

Fees for 2024

Domestic Fee
$2,406 - $2,836 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$350 per year

This programme has open entry. English language requirements apply.

Hold, or be working towards a Class 1 drivers licence.

"Please note: The above additional entry requirements are pending NZQA approval."

What if English is not my first Language?

If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.

  • Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
  • If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
  • If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
  • IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
  • What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
  • You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.

Overall IELTS 5.0 Academic

  • 5.0 Listening
  • 5.0 Reading
  • 5.0 Writing
  • 5.0 Speaking

Funding assistance

If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.

Find out more

Career opportunities

This pretrade qualification will enable you to carry out supervised work in the industry, and help you along the pathway toward full trade qualification. As a graduate of this programme, you can seek work within an established workshop, with a view to gaining an apprenticeship.

Study pathways

This qualification enables you to progress into further study in the Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4).

Recommended school subjects

  • English
  • Mathematics

New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)

FULL-TIME - 1 Year (Part-time options available)

Get your career in automotive engineering off to the best start.

Information
Type Certificate
Code NZ3097
Credits 120
Level 3
Available Part time Yes
May be eligible for Fees Free? Yes
Reference NZ3097-STRU

Fees for 2024

Domestic Fee
$2,406 - $2,836 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$350 per year

Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid-19 vaccination status to apply for this programme, but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated from COVID-19 before allowing you to complete work at their organisation.

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With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…

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Additional Entry Requirements

Hold, or be working towards a Class 1 drivers licence.

"Please note: The above additional entry requirements are pending NZQA approval."

See overview for more

Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.

Find out more

Documents

Area of Interest

Key Information for Students

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