• Open entry. 
• If English is not your first language, you must provide:
  • New Zealand University Entrance OR
  • Overall Academic IELTS 5.0 with no individual band score lower than 5.0 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR
  • Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for NZQA proficiency table and here for list of recognised proficiency tests).

If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.

Selection criteria

• Preference will be given to applicants with a minimum of NCEA Level 1 and four years of secondary education OR the National Certificate in Building, Construction and Allied Trades Skills (BCATS) (Level 2) programme. 

Please note: The BCATS programme is offered through trades academy, secondary schools and some private training establishments.

Trade Skills 1 (15 credits)

Develop preliminary skills and knowledge for working in the construction industry.

Trade Skills 2 (30 credits)

Enhance your trade skills knowledge and gain practical experience on a construction site or in a construction-related industry.

Foundations (15 credits)

Learn how to set out and prepare to construct foundation structures (up to and including floor level) using specified materials.

Structures (30 credits)

Gain an understanding of how to construct walls and roofs using specified materials.

Exterior Claddings (15 credits)

Develop an understanding of how to install external cladding and roofing to a structure using specified materials.

Interior Lining (15 credits)

Learn how to install interior linings, trim, fixtures and fittings using specified materials while working with others in a safe working environment.

Usual timetable hours are Monday to Thursday, 8.30am-4.30pm with a half day on Friday.

You are required to complete at least six weeks of work experience and up to three hours of additional self-directed study a week.

Classes are held in L Block, 100 Anzac Avenue. Click here for a map. 

Hand tools are included in the programme fee but the equipment will remain the property of Otago Polytechnic. Depending on what you own before starting the course, additional costs may be up to $600-$700 (approx). Assistance with personal equipment is available through WINZ under Course Related Costs. 

Course equipment list > 

Whilst this programme is free for you to study via the Trades and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF), this fund only covers tuition fees and compulsory costs such as student levies. It does not cover any additional costs or living costs. You can pay for additional and living costs by yourself if that is possible for you or by applying for a loan or allowance through Studylink.      

It is important to apply for your student loan/allowance at the same time as you apply for this programme, due to the length of time Studylink take to process. Loan/allowance applications can be cancelled at any time if you decide to withdraw your programme application or if it is unsuccessful. 

• For information about student loans and allowances please visit the Studylink website 

While every effort is made to ensure that this sheet is accurate, Otago Polytechnic reserves the right to amend, alter or withdraw any of the contained information. The fees shown in this document are indicative ONLY. Both domestic and international fees are subject to change and are dependent on the development and implementation of Government policies. Please note that additional fees may from time to time be required for external examination, NZQA fees and/or additional material fees.