Understanding NCEA Exclusions

Navigating NCEA credit exclusions can be complex, especially when determining how best to apply credits toward Literacy, Numeracy, and NCEA Level 1. We recently sought clarification from NZQA on this matter, and here’s what we learned.

Key Points to Consider:

1. Separate Evaluation for Literacy/Numeracy and the 80 Credit Rule:
   • NCEA Level 1 requirements are essentially:
     1. Literacy and Numeracy.
     2. 80 Credits at Level 1 or above, which include the Literacy/Numeracy credits.
   • NZQA evaluates these requirements separately to determine the best possible outcome for the student.
2. How Exclusions Work:
   • When exclusions are involved, NZQA applies the rule that benefits the student the most.

   • They first determine the best scenario for Literacy and Numeracy, then apply the best scenario for the 80 Credit Rule.

     
     

Case Examples:

Example 1: Student A passed 91035 in 2023 and passed 91944 in 2024.

• Numeracy Requirement:
  • Standard 91035 (4 Credits in 2023) is used, which satisfies Numeracy via Method 2B in 2023.
  • Standard 91944 (5 Credits in 2024) is excluded.
• 80 Credit Rule:
  • Standard 91944 (5 Credits in 2024) is used, adding 5 credits toward the 80 Credit total.
  • Standard 91035 is excluded from the 80 Credit total.

Example 2: Student B passed 91035 and 91036 in 2023 and passed 91944 in 2024.

• Numeracy Requirement:
  • Standards 91035 and 91036 (4 Credits each in 2023) are used, satisfying Numeracy via Method 2B in 2023.
  • Standard 91944 (5 Credits in 2024) is excluded.
• 80 Credit Rule:
  • Standards 91035 and 91036 are used, adding 8 credits toward the 80 Credit total.
  • Standard 91944 is excluded from the 80 Credit total.

What This Means for Administrators:

When managing students’ NCEA credits, it’s crucial to apply exclusions in a way that maximises the student’s benefit. This approach can differ between satisfying Numeracy/Literacy requirements and fulfilling the 80 Credit Rule.

If you have any questions about how to apply these rules for your students, please feel free to reach out to us for further clarification. We’re here to help ensure your students get the best possible outcome from their NCEA credits.