Programme at a glance
Minimum 2 weeks
- ABC General English Full-Time – (20 hrs/week)
- ABC General English Part-Time – (10 hrs/week)
Participants can expect to cover the four main language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. This course is ideal for students who wish to improve their level of confidence, accuracy and fluency in Communicative English language skills.
Our General English Course offers a programme of study for students over the age of 18, who wish to improve their level of confidence, accuracy and fluency in Communicative English language skills.
Our Communicative General English Course provides the opportunity to learn conversational English as used in a variety of everyday situations encountered when travelling. Participants will be able to learn in a relaxed, enjoyable and non-threatening environment. With our experienced teachers the pace and content of the lessons are tailored to suit the individual needs and interests of the class.
Our English language school has gained a reputation for providing first class English language tuition and excellent student services.
We are proud to be recognized as a NZQA Category 1 provider.
You will be taught by our qualified and professional ESL teachers with small classes – maximum of 15 students per class (minimum numbers apply) ensuring maximum individual attention.
- Full time English Lessons will take place in the morning between 8.30am and 1.00pm in the afternoon, with a half hour break included.
- Part-time English Lessons have 2 options: Morning class (Grammar focus) 8.30-10.30 or Afternoon class 11.00-13.00 (Topic and ESOL subjects)
- All students must speak English while on campus. This is important English language development for students with English as a second language.
| Activity or Lesson Information |
|---|
| The first class focuses on grammar, vocabulary, reading, and writing using a textbook. Some speaking and listening are used to apply the target language. |
| Break |
| The second class has lessons on speaking and listening, focusing more on vocabulary and grammar points. This is achieved through role plays and group / individual presentations. |
Work & Study Options
ABC is a Category 1 provider allowing student visa holders to work part time (up to 25 hours/week). Queenstown is NZ’s premier tourism location and has roles in hospitality and tourism, plus other industries. We are located downtown so often jobs are within walking distance of the College. We support our students to find work and also have an English + Work Placement service starting in 2025.
2026 Fees
Note: Costs per week decrease the longer you choose to study. See below a guideline of prices per length of study.
| Course Duration & Additional Fees | 2026 Fees |
|---|---|
| Full Time (1 -11 weeks) | $455 per week |
| Full Time (12 - 23 weeks) | $435 per week |
| Full Time (24 - 35 weeks) | $415 per week |
| Full Time (36+ weeks) | $390 per week |
| Part Time Course (10 hours) | $240 per week |
| Enrolment Fee | $275 (one-off cost) |
| Materials Fee | $75 |
| Insurance | See our Fees Page for monthly breakdown. |
Why ABC College & Queenstown?
Applicant Requirements
All students must be 18 years of age or older at the time of course commencement.
Note: If you want to work for up to 20 hours per week while you study on a Student Visa, you must enrol for a minimum period of 14 weeks.
International students are required to provide insurance to tertiary providers.
FAQs
Yes, you should have at least an Elementary level of English to study with us. If you haven’t sat an official assessment before the following information may help you.
Please note you will also be sent a free indicator assessment once you apply.
A1 (Beginner):
- You know simple phrases like “Hello” or “How are you?”
- You can introduce yourself and give basic information like your name and age.
Example Sentences:
- “My name is Maria.”
- “I am from Spain.”
A2 (Elementary):
- You understand common words and simple sentences about things like shopping or asking for directions.
- You can ask and answer questions in short conversations about everyday topics.
Example Sentences:
- “How much does this book cost?”
- “The bank is next to the supermarket.”
B1 (Intermediate):
- You understand the main ideas when people speak clearly about familiar topics like work, school, or travel.
- You can talk to people about simple subjects and write short emails or notes.
Example Sentences:
- “I have to finish this project by Friday.”
- “The museum is very interesting, and the art is beautiful.”
B2 (Upper Intermediate):
- You understand main ideas in complex conversations about more general topics like news, sports, or hobbies.
- You can talk to people easily, even about new or unfamiliar topics, and write longer emails or reports.
Example Sentences:
- “I believe the new law will have a big impact on the economy.”
- “We need to improve our team’s performance to win the next match.”
C1 (Advanced):
- You understand longer texts and can recognize hidden meanings in conversations.
- You can speak and write English confidently in school, work, and social situations.
Example Sentences:
- “Although the new policy has some advantages, its implementation poses challenges that need addressing.”
- “I think the author’s use of symbolism adds depth to the novel.”
C2 (Proficient):
- You can understand almost everything you read or hear in English.
- You can speak, write, and explain complex ideas fluently and clearly.
Example Sentences:
- “The intricacies of international trade require a comprehensive understanding of both economic and geopolitical factors.”
- “The philosopher’s argument is compelling because it balances theoretical rigor with practical application.”
A variety of nationalities from throughout Asia, South America and Europe.
The classes start at 8.30am. There is a 30-minute break at 10.30am and the second class is from 11.00-13.00. You study for a total of 4 hours a day and 20 hours per week.
Yes. 95% of our students reside at our Student Residence – Shotover Lodge. Homestay is also available, subject to availability. Please book early and for the full duration of study to avoid disappointment.
We can often provide students with their accommodation requests however, Queenstown is a very busy place and occasionally accommodation does book out. You will be notified if this is the case, and we always recommend booking with plenty of time in advance to avoid disappointment.
Generally, yes. If you study for 14 weeks or more on a Student Visa you may be entitled to 20hrs per week. You can also work if you have a Working Holiday Visa. Always check the conditions on your visa for specific details.
We currently offer General English and IELTS Exam Preparation Courses. More courses are coming in the future.
Queenstown has a public bus system for the area. The closest bus stop to ABC College of English is just a 3-minute walk from the school.
Queenstown Airport is only a 20-minute bus ride away. Shotover Lodge is about 7 minutes by bus.
ABC College of English is located in Queenstown. The small city is in the South Island of New Zealand, which is renowned for its beautiful scenery. Surrounded by the breath-taking Southern Alps mountains and set on the shores of spectacular Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown’s a beautiful place to call home.
The school is located in the heart of Queenstown, with many eateries, bars and interesting venues nearby.
Attractions within a short walking distance of the school include Queenstown Bay beach and green areas such as Queenstown Gardens. There are also various supermarkets, amenities and links to public transport nearby.
With world-class ski resorts, great walks, biking trails, jet boating, bungy jumping (just to name a few) right on your doorstep, there is always something new to try.
The Queenstown region is also a foodie’s paradise, boasting an amazing restaurant and bar scene and some of the country’s best vineyards.
You can find out more about Queenstown on the official Queenstown website here.
ABC College of English has a long-standing reputation for quality education in a family atmosphere where teachers and professional and caring. “A small school with a big heart’ is how it has been described. It is conveniently located in the centre of Queenstown, across from Queenstown Gardens and close to the shops, banks and bus stop.
As Queenstown is NZ’s premier tourism destination, you will have the ability to combine English language learning and exciting activities and amazing experiences such as snowboarding, jet boating, bungy jumping, mountain biking and hiking.
You must be 18 years of age to enrol.
