Introduction

The Massey University Centre for University Preparation and English Language Studies (CUPELS) is committed to providing high quality programmes for a range of student needs and facilitating access to the exceptional expertise and resources of New Zealand's largest university.   The Centre offers exciting, interactive English language courses for international and domestic students along with a range of preparatory programmes for university student.  Our programmes bring together students from throughout New Zealand and all over the world.  

CUPELS is an integral part of Massey University with campuses in Palmerston North, Auckland (Albany) and Wellington. 

• Students from non-English speaking backgrounds. This may include New Zealand permanent residents and citizens as well as International students.
• Students who want to undertake a Foundation Studies programme. In 2003 80% of students who began this programme successfully completed and have moved onto further tertiary study in New Zealand or overseas.
• Students who want to sit an IELTS test
• Students who want to improve their general English
• Students who want to improve their English so they can study at university

Programmes Available

ENGLISH LANGUAGE COURSES

Certificate of Attendance in General English/ EAP - The integrated General English and English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programme helps students improve their reading, writing, listening and speaking skills at a range of levels through a topic based curriculum. Carefully chosen texts are supplemented by relevant materials with a New Zealand focus. Class visits and activities are integrated into the curriculum where appropriate. There are classes at the lower intermediate to advanced levels. An English for Academic Purposes focus is introduced at the upper levels to develop the English language skills required for study in undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at English medium universities or for professional purposes. For more information click here.

Certificates in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) - The Certificates are offered to help domestic and international students prepare for work, for further study or for everyday life in New Zealand. Students can study part time or full time. Full time is 25 hours per week. Part time is 15 hours in the morning or 10 hours in the afternoon. For more information about the introductory, intermediate or advanced programmes.

There are other programmes that can be designed for special groups.

PATHWAYS TO UNIVERSITIES STUDIES

Certificate in Foundation Studies Programme - The Certificate in Foundation Studies is a two-semester programme that prpares you for degree level study at Massey University.  The programme is designed for students from non-English speaking backgrounds but it is also open to native English speaking students who need extra help with literacy skills.  If you complete the certificate you meet the admission requirements for most undergraduate programmes at Massey.  The programme combines three relevant academic subjects with academic English and study skills.  The curriculum has been written by university lecturers to ensure that you are appropriately prepared for your degree programme.  It also helps you to learn about and adapt to studying in a New Zealand university.  For more information click here.

Certificate in University Preparation - For more information about this programme click here

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) -  CUPELS at Massey University’s Albany and Palmerston North campuses are two of twelve registered IELTS testing centres in New Zealand. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is designed to assess the language ability of candidates who need to study or work where English is used as the language of communication.  IELTS is recognised by universities, immigration, government bodies and employers in many countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the USA.  For more information click here.

Accommodation

Students have a choice of living in a homestay, a University Hall of Residence, a guesthouse or a motel.  The CUPELS Homestay Co-ordinators helps students to find accommodation and matches them with homestay families.

Student Welfare/Support

CUPELS has its own team of designated Accommodation and Welfare Advisors who have offices at each campus. Their role is to provide help and advice on all non-academic matters and provide a first point of referral for students to other University services.

Activities

There are dedicated Activities Coordinator to help you enjoy your stay to the fullest.  You can choose to take part in a range of cultural and sporting activities.  Some of these activities are free, others are not.   You get to meet other people from around the world, including New Zealand. 

Staff

To find out postal, courier and physical addresses for our Centres click here to contact us.  For details and photos of the current staff.

Enquiries and Feedback

For more information about  accommodation, activities, welfare and any other matters check out the Frequently asked questions section.

We would love to hear from you,  contact us today!

For an international student application form