Programmes leading to a qualification listed on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF) must be approved by NZQA.
Approved programmes can only be delivered by accredited providers. We grant accreditation when we consider a provider capable of delivering an approved programme.
If you're developing a programme for other providers to deliver, apply for approval only. If you want to deliver another provider's approved programme, apply for accreditation only.
You can apply for approval and accreditation of your own programme in the same application.
The information on this page is about programmes leading to New Zealand Certificates at Levels 1 to 6 and New Zealand Diplomas at Levels 5 to 7.
Approval and accreditation processes and requirements are different for degree programmes.
Go to the degree approval and accreditation page
Relevant rules
We set the rules for programme approval and provider accreditation under the Education and Training Act 2020 (the Act).
Section 439 of the Act 2020 (external link)
Section 441 of the Act 2020 (external link)
Programme Approval, Recognition, and Accreditation Rules 2022
On this page
Guidelines for programme approval and provider accreditation
Before you apply, make sure you read the guidelines.
The guidelines contain detailed information about approval and accreditation of New Zealand Certificates at Levels 1 to 6 and New Zealand Diplomas at Levels 5 to 7 on the NZQCF.
Workforce Development Council endorsement
Workforce Development Councils (WDCs) must see and endorse any programmes related to the industries they cover.
You must seek programme endorsement from the relevant WDC before you apply to NZQA for programme approval.
WDC endorsement is required when:
- your organisation is developing new programmes
- your organisation is making significant changes (Type 2 changes) to existing programmes
- the qualification is on the list of qualifications for WDC endorsement.
Download the list of qualifications for WDC endorsement [XLSX, 22 KB]
Working with WDCs
Your organisation should work closely with the relevant WDC when developing a programme.
The WDC can advise you of any new rules, regulations, specifications or conditions since the qualification was listed.
Check the WDC’s website for more information about how they endorse programmes.
Tertiary Education Commission and StudyLink requirements
Your organisation needs programme approval and accreditation to seek Tertiary Education Commission funding.
Approval and accreditation is also required before your learners can be eligible for student allowances and loans.
More information
Important information
Provider categories and programme approval and accreditation
How provider categories impact programme approval and accreditation.
Learn more
Applying for programme approval and provider accreditation
Find out how to make an application online.
Applications
Programmes leading to Level 7 diplomas
How recent changes to the Act are impacting Level 7 diploma programmes.
Learn more