Certificates may be used in a wide range of contexts across all levels up to and including level 7, and are often used to prepare candidates for both employment and further education and training.

'National Certificates' (certificates approved to use the term 'National') recognise skills and knowledge that meet nationally endorsed standards (unit and achievement standards).  National Certificates may be gained in a wide range of areas. They include the National Certificates of Educational Achievement (NCEA) levels 1-3 (the main qualifications in the senior secondary school) and National Certificates recognising achievement in a wide variety of industries and subjects. Some National Certificates automatically recognise credit from non-NQF qualifications as outlined by the qualification regulations.