How we ensure quality
New Zealand education is high quality, with checks for each part of the system, as well as for the system as a whole.
The New Zealand government monitors the quality of learning outcomes and the systems and processes education providers use. It does this through its agencies, including NZQA. The agencies have distinct roles and work alongside each other to assure the quality of different parts of the education system.
This is called 'quality assurance'. It makes sure that students get quality education and appropriate support from their education provider.
The New Zealand education system is effective because it's supported by:
- a robust qualifications framework
- quality, relevant qualifications
- strong education delivery and assessment
- high-calibre education providers
- pastoral care of students.
On this page
Quality assured qualifications on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF)
The NZQCF is the heart of New Zealand’s education system.
All qualifications listed on the NZQCF come with an assurance of quality that is recognised and trusted worldwide.
Understanding the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework
Quality assurance of education providers
Caring for international students at all levels of education
The Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021 (the Code) is in place to protect international students.
The Code is a document that clearly outlines the full legal requirements that education providers enrolling international students must abide by.
The purpose of this code is to support the Government’s objectives for international education by:
- requiring providers to take all reasonable steps to protect international students, and
- ensuring, so far as is possible, that international students in New Zealand have a positive experience that supports their educational achievement.