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Information for International Students

Welcome to the School of Business and Exercise Academy. We are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and high‑quality learning experience for international learners. This page provides all the information you need before you enrol, including programme details, fees, support services, visa requirements, and your rights under the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021.

Programme Information

Pre-Enrolment Information

The NZ Certificate in Exercise (Level 4) is designed to prepare you for safe, effective work in the exercise and fitness industry. You will develop practical skills, industry knowledge, and professional behaviours that support client wellbeing and quality practice.

 

Graduate profile outcomes

Graduates of the NZ Certificate in Exercise (Level 4) will be able to:

  • Apply knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and exercise principles to support safe and effective exercise.

  • Conduct pre‑exercise screening and risk assessment.

  • Deliver exercise sessions under supervision in a fitness or community setting.

  • Apply professional and ethical behaviour in line with industry expectations.

  • Communicate effectively with clients and colleagues in a fitness environment.

  • Support client motivation and wellbeing using evidence‑based approaches.

These outcomes are aligned with the NZQA Graduate Profile for this qualification.

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For more information on the pre-enrolment requirements, click here for a copy of our international pre-enrolment pack and information on enrolment here and how to apply

Course Structure

To achieve this qualification students need to successfully complete the below modules

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Learner Support, Facilities & Equipment

Educational Instruction

Our programmes are delivered through a blend of online learning, webinars, tutor‑led sessions, and supervised practical experience during work placement.

Tutor Qualifications

All tutors hold relevant qualifications and current industry experience. Tutor profiles are available here

Learning Facilities

International learners have access to:

  • our online Learning Management System (LMS)

  • digital learning resources

  • online classrooms and webinars

  • gym facilities during practicum

Equipment

Exercise Academy provides access to gym equipment during practicum. Learners must supply their own laptop, internet access, and personal study materials.

Support for International Learners

Equipment Support

Arrival/Orientation

We provide:

  • academic support

  • wellbeing and pastoral care

  • referrals for external counselling

  • orientation and accomodation/daily life support

  • cultural support

  • attendance and academic monitoring

  • access to a designated International Learner Support Contact

  • accommodation assistance

for more information on support services click here​

Support can be provided for:

technology support for equipment purchases, product usage, troubleshooting, and technical issues while at the campus students will have the ability to use computers, printers and WiFi

Once your fees are paid and your visa is approved your enrolment will be confirmed. Support and Guidance will be provided to you starting on day 1 of your enrolment provided through an orientation. 


DAY 1 of your course - Orientation

Orientation Schedule — International Learners

Session - Topic / Activity

Topic 1 -  Welcome & Cultural Acknowledgement

Topic 2 -  Programme Overview

Topic 3 -  Learner Rights & Code of Practice

Topic 4 -  LLN & Academic Support

Topic 5 -  Health, Safety & Wellbeing

Topic 6 -  Enrolment & Documentation

Topic 7 -  IT Systems & Learning Platforms

Topic 8 -  Cultural Integration & Community

Topic 9 -  Q&A and Feedback

Pathways for Further Study

Upon successful completion fo the Certificate in Exercise (Level 4) graduates may progress to:

  • Level 5 or 6 qualifications in exercise, sport, health, or related fields

  • specialist certifications or short courses

  • higher‑level vocational or academic programmes

Employment Opportunities

This qualification may support entry‑level roles such as:

  • Personal trainer

  • gym or fitness assistant/exercise consultant

  • community exercise Instructor

  • exercise facility support roles

  • community health or wellbeing support roles

Residency Pathways

Residency pathways are not applicable for this qualification.

Fees, Costs and Refunds

Tuition Fee -  NZD $13,300

Non‑Tuition Costs

  • course materials

  • uniform (if applicable)

  • equipment

  • administration fees NZD $250

  • Student Services Levy NZD $1000


Living Costs - International students should budget for:

  • accommodation

  • food

  • transport

  • personal expenses


Refund Policy - Our refund policy complies with NZQA and the Education Act.
please click here to view our withdrawal and refund information

Weights at Gym
Weights at Gym

Visa & Insurance Requirements

Student Visa
International learners must hold a valid student visa for the duration of their study. You can find visa information at Immigration New Zealand. https://www.immigration.govt.nz/

Insurance
All international students must have approved medical and travel insurance for the full period of study.

Contact Details

The designated contact person for international learners is:

Name: Mattia Ravanelli
Role: International Learner Support Lead
Phone: +64 272 800 239
Email: mattia@sobl.ac.nz

Code of Practice

The School of Business is a signatory to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021. Please see copy of our latest EER review

Your Rights Under the Code, You have the right to:

  • accurate information

  • a safe and supportive learning environment

  • fair treatment

  • clear assessment processes

  • access to support services

  • make a complaint without disadvantage


For more information please click here to review the Code of Practice summary contained within the Student Handbook

Conflicts and Dispute Resolution

We welcome any opportunity to make things better for students so if you have any concerns, please let us know so it can be put right. Discuss your concerns with your tutor first and then, if necessary, with the General Manager.

If a concern or complaint cannot be resolved through our internal process, international learners can access an independent dispute resolution service called iStudent Complaints.
This service is free and helps resolve concerns about fees, refunds, contracts, service quality, or any other unresolved issues. Website: www.istudent.org.nz

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