Overview
This programme is run by Kāpuhipuhi Wellington Uni-Professional (WUPL) and the English Language Institute (ELI) at Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) on behalf of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).
The theme for Intake 64 is Education
Eligible countries are:
Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Timor-Leste, and Viet Nam.
Stage 1
In-country pre-departure programme meetings
July-August 2026
Key information sent to officials.
Remote/online engagement meetings between participants, teaching and pastoral care teams to convey key programme information.
Pre-departure briefings held in-country or online by New Zealand Embassies or partner organisations.
Stage 2
New Zealand English Language Training Programme
27 August – 27 November 2026
13 weeks full-time study in Wellington will include:
- A comprehensive tailored English Language Training programme at the ELI, including language learning, intercultural communication, and introduction to New Zealand culture and good governance.
- The course theme of Education, including educational leadership, issues in education & international perspectives.
- Workplace communication and visits
- A field trip
- IELTS training and testing
Stage 3
In-country workplace project
December 2026 – February 2027
Undertake a workplace-based project on the intake theme and prepare a 10-minute presentation.
The teaching staff will lead online meetings to provide support and connect with other participants.
Possible Participants
Government officials and employees of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) working in a technical or policy role and who have a proven need for using English in their work and developing their understanding of Education in their countries. Applicants need to explain how Education is related to their work.
Below is a list of possible ministries and government organisations, but this is not an exhaustive list, and candidates are also invited from other relevant ministries and state-owned enterprises.
- Education – All levels
- Culture
- Religious Affairs
- Labour
- Vocational training
- Planning agencies
- Higher education
- Educational research
- Health
Selection Criteria
Individual applicants should meet the following criteria:
- English language proficiency IELTS 4.5 – 5.5 or equivalent
- Direct connection with the theme, preferably in a technical or policy role
- English is used frequently for work
- Age range: 25 – 45 years old
- If you have completed tertiary-level study in an English-speaking country, you are not eligible to apply for the NZELTO programme
Applications are encouraged from:
- Female candidates
- Candidates from provincial centres who need to use English regularly in their work
Note
Preference will be given to applicants who submit a strong application. Here are some ways to submit a strong application:
- Read this course outline and understand the programme.
- Use your own words – using Artificial Intelligence or translation tools weakens an application.
- State clearly how your work is connected to international security.
- Don’t copy someone else’s application and give honest answers.
Key application and selection dates
- The application window will be open to receive applications from 19 January through to 27 February 2026.
- Language testing will take place 6 April to 24 April 2026. You must be available to complete testing during this period.
- Provisional offer letters will be sent to successful candidates from the week of 25 May 2026.