The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) is the Crown entity responsible for ensuring that New Zealand qualifications are recognized and valued. For international students, skilled migrants, and professionals coming to New Zealand, NZQA's International Qualification Assessment (IQA) service is essential for having overseas qualifications recognized in the New Zealand context.

NZQA assesses international qualifications against the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF), which has 10 levels ranging from certificates (Level 1) to doctoral degrees (Level 10). The assessment helps employers, educational institutions, and immigration authorities understand the equivalent value of international qualifications.

Qualification Levels and Assessment

The NZQF provides a clear framework for comparing qualifications:

| NZQF Level | Type of Qualification | Typical Equivalent |

|---|---|---|

| Level 1 | Certificate | High school completion |

| Level 2-3 | Certificate | Vocational/skill-based training |

| Level 4 | Certificate | Advanced trade/technical |

| Level 5 | Diploma | Undergraduate foundation |

| Level 6 | Diploma | Undergraduate/specialist |

| Level 7 | Bachelor's Degree | Undergraduate degree |

| Level 8 | Postgraduate Diploma/Honours | Advanced undergraduate/beginning postgraduate |

| Level 9 | Master's Degree | Postgraduate degree |

| Level 10 | Doctoral Degree | PhD |

NZQA evaluates each qualification based on the learning outcomes, duration of study, entry requirements, and the reputation of the issuing institution. The assessment result includes the equivalent NZQF level, the field of learning, and any conditions or limitations.

Application Process

The IQA application is conducted entirely online through the NZQA website. The process involves:

1. Create an account on the NZQA online portal

2. Select the type of assessment required

3. Pay the assessment fee (NZD 445 as of 2025)

4. Upload scanned copies of all required documents

5. NZQA reviews the application, typically within 15-25 working days

6. Receive the assessment result via email

Required Documents

Applicants must provide the following documents:

Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from each educational institution attended, showing subjects studied, grades obtained, and qualifications awarded. Transcripts must be in English or accompanied by certified translations.

Degree/Diploma Certificates: Official certificates showing the qualification title, field of study, and date of award.

Proof of Institution Accreditation: Documentation showing that the awarding institution is recognized and accredited by the relevant education authority in the country where it is located.

Identity Verification: A copy of your passport or other government-issued photo identification.

Processing Time and Costs

The standard processing time for an IQA is 15-25 working days after NZQA receives all required documents. Expedited processing (7-10 working days) is available for an additional fee of NZD 195. The standard assessment fee of NZD 445 covers the assessment of one qualification. Additional qualifications can be assessed at a reduced fee.

Immigration Use

The IQA result is a critical document for Skilled Migrant Category visa applications. Points are awarded based on the NZQF level of the qualification, with higher qualifications receiving more points. A recognized Level 7 qualification (Bachelor's degree) provides 6 points, while a Level 9 (Master's) provides 9 points, and a Level 10 (PhD) provides 10 points toward the Skilled Migrant points requirement.

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New Zealand NZQA Qualification Assessment: International Credential Guide