There are more steps in the NZQA analysis of new graduate, post-graduate or degree programme approval or accreditation applications than for applications for programmes at Levels 1 to 6.
Steps in the application and analysis process
- The applicant informs NZQA of their intention to submit at least three months before submitting the application.
- The applicant submits their graduate, postgraduate or degree application for approval and accreditation, including panel nominations.
- NZQA evaluates the documentation and may send a request for information (RFI).
- NZQA evaluates the RFI response and may seek further minor clarifications.
- NZQA sets up a panel for further analysis and a site visit.
- Panel confirms findings/requirements and recommendations.
- If there are any panel requirements, the applicant must typically provide a response within 20 working days. The panel will evaluate the response before an outcome is decided.
- NZQA collates feedback from the panel members and compiles an evaluation report.
- The applicant receives the evaluation report to check for factual accuracy.
- NZQA informs the applicant of the outcome.
The evaluation panel
The panel provides expert knowledge and skills to analyse the application. Panellists must have relevant skills, knowledge or experience at the level of the proposed degree, graduate or post-graduate certificate or diploma.
When applying, the applicant must provide NZQA with:
- two nominations for each position on the evaluation panel (other than the positions of evaluator and independent chair)
- contact details for each nominee (address, phone, email)
- a complete CV of each nominee, including contact details and any other supporting information as to how they contribute to the panel characteristics and endorsements from relevant bodies.
Nominees should not have been involved with the development of the programme. They should not have an association with the applicant that may be a potential conflict of interest.
If clarification is required, please contact your nominated Approvals and Accreditation contact person. Look under NZQA Degree Contacts in your TEO profile.
The Guidelines for Degree Panels outline the process undertaken for establishing a panel for approval and accreditation of graduate, post-graduate or degree programmes.
Timelines for graduate, post-graduate or degree programme approval and accreditation applications
Contact NZQA at least 3 months before submitting your application for additional guidance.
NZQA aims to complete the programme approval and accreditation process within 6 months of receiving the application, but this depends on:
- the quality of the application
- the availability of panellists
- the timing of panel visits
- the time it takes for applicants to respond to and meet any panel requirements after the panel visit.
Fees for graduate, postgraduate or degree programme approval and accreditation applications
For more information see: