2025 NCEA Level 2 Courses

2025 NCEA Level 2 Subject Selections

All students in Years 11-13 are required to select 5 option subjects and 2 backup subjects to ensure flexibility in case of full classes or timetable clashes.

NCEA Level 2 and University Entrance Literacy Requirements

It is highly recommended that students complete NCEA Level 2 English, as this lays the foundation for achieving the University Entrance Literacy requirements, which are crucial for many tertiary courses (university, polytechnic etc) and many career pathways. If you are unsure about this requirement or need to discuss alternatives, please arrange a meeting with Claire Farnan or Bernard Coleman to discuss further.

Looking Ahead to University Entrance (UE)

As you progress into NCEA Level 2, it’s important to start thinking about the requirements for University Entrance (UE) if you are considering tertiary study after Year 13. While you will complete your UE requirements in Year 13, building strong foundations in Level 2 will help prepare you for success.

What is University Entrance Literacy?

University Entrance Literacy requires students to achieve:

• 5 Reading credits and 5 Writing credits at Level 2 or higher, from specific standards across various subjects.

NCEA Level 2 English is one of the most straightforward ways to meet these requirements, but other subjects also contribute to your literacy reading and writing credits. Achieving these literacy credits at Level 2 helps ensure you're on track for University Entrance in Year 13.

What are University Approved Subjects?

University Approved Subjects are specific subjects at Level 3 that are recognised by universities for admission. Although you don’t need to choose University Approved Subjects until Year 13, selecting appropriate NCEA Level 2 subjects helps keep your pathways open and ensures that you’re prepared for three University Approved Subjects in Year 13. It's important to choose subjects that align with your interests and future study or career plans.

To achieve University Entrance, in Year 13, you will need:

• NCEA Level 3: At least 60 credits at Level 3 or above.
• University Entrance Literacy: 5 credits for reading and 5 credits for writing.
• Three University Approved Subjects: 14 credits in each of three subjects at Level 3.

Need Help with Subject Selections?

Choosing the right subjects in NCEA Level 2 is essential to keep your options open for future study or work. We understand it can be a challenge, so if you need advice or have any questions about your subject choices or university entrance requirements, please feel free to reach out to your whānau teacher or one of the following staff members for guidance:

• Bernard Coleman, Tumuaki Tuarua/Deputy Principal, Curriculum and Pedagogy - [email protected] 
• Claire Farnan, Tumuaki Tuarua/Deputy Principal, Principal’s Nominee - [email protected] 
• Robyn Bear, Head of Careers - [email protected] 

We’re here to help you make informed and confident decisions for your future.

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