The National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) is a qualification awarded to students in New Zealand upon completing secondary education. It assesses students' knowledge and skills through a series of internal assessments and external examinations, allowing them to earn credits across various subjects. NCEA is structured in three levels, with Level 1 typically taken in Year 11, Level 2 in Year 12, and Level 3 in Year 13. Students can achieve different endorsements, such as Merit or Excellence, based on their performance, which can enhance their opportunities for further education or employment.