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Call us on 0800 222 733Bridging and foundation courses
If you are thinking about doing a polytechnic or university course but don’t have enough NCEA credits, you might want to consider doing a bridging or foundation course.
What are bridging and foundation courses?
- Foundation courses can help prepare you for tertiary study
Bridging and foundation courses are for you if:
- you don't meet the minimum entry requirements for a tertiary course
- you are unsure of your ability to cope with tertiary study
- you haven't studied for some time
- you want to see what tertiary study is like before you make a financial commitment.
Bridging or foundation courses are often held in maths, English and science subjects. They can help you to build up your skills and meet the minimum entry requirements for a degree course. Many training providers also offer foundation courses that help you learn essay writing, study and time management skills, or get a feel for a subject area.
These courses are an excellent way to develop good study habits before you start your course.
To find out if bridging or foundation courses exist for the course you're interested in, check the polytechnic or university's website.
Special admission to courses
If you are over 20 years old you may be eligible for special admission to polytechnic or university courses. Special admission means you are exempt from certain entry criteria.
You can find out if you are eligible for special admission by consulting with the institution you want to attend before applying for courses. Evidence of other study or work skills is often required with your application.
Additional entry requirements
Some tertiary courses have additional entry requirements, especially where admission is competitive or restricted – for example, engineering and medicine. Check the polytechnic or university's website for more details.