NZQA's qualification recognition service evaluates international qualifications to see where they would be on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF):
- Level 1 to 10
- Type of qualification
This evaluation is called an International Qualification Assessment (IQA).
It allows individuals, employers and organisations to see how qualified a person is for work and immigration purposes.
If you have an evaluation from another country
We cannot accept recognition evaluations from other countries because our evaluation compares an overseas qualification to a level or a qualification on the NZQCF.
Before applying for an IQA you could ask the person or organisation you are applying to whether they will accept a qualification evaluation from another country.
On this page
What qualification we can and cannot evaluate
We can evaluate:
- a tertiary or vocational upper-secondary qualification
- qualifications awarded by a provider that is recognised nationally and accredited by the relevant government authority in the country of award and country of delivery
- a minimum of 400 notional learning hours (approximately 10 weeks of full time academic study).
We cannot evaluate:
- secondary school qualifications
- incomplete programmes of study
- programmes of study not leading to the award of a qualification
- certificates of attendance
- certificates of proficiency (if they do not include formal learning programmes)
- letters or certificates of work experience – do not submit evidence of work experience with your IQA application
- apprenticeships without formal training programmes
- professional or specialist training certificates (for example, CISCO or Microsoft expert awards)
- professional registration, permits, licenses or certifications
- membership certificates issued by chartered bodies, unless they are formally recognised by the relevant government or government-mandated education bodies in the country of award, at the time of award.
What IQAs you can apply for
Resources for your IQA application
Evidence and document requirements
Find out what evidence and documents you need and the standards these have to meet
Find out more
Fees for evaluating qualifications
Find out who much each type of IQA costs, what an appeal costs and and how to get refunds
Find out more
Apply for an IQA
Find out how to prepare for an application and find the QRS portal
Find out how to apply