NZQA International Qualification Assessment
The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) evaluates overseas qualifications to establish their equivalence on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) for immigration and registration.
Who this pathway suits
All skilled workers, SMC applicants, and teachers with degrees earned outside New Zealand.
Eligibility at a glance
- Completed degree or diploma from a recognized international higher education institution
How the process works
- Check the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment (LQEA)
- If not exempt, apply online for an International Qualification Assessment (IQA)
- Upload verified color scans of graduation certificates and official transcripts
- Receive official electronic IQA report specifying NZQF level (e.g. Level 7 Bachelor's, Level 9 Master's)
Documents you will typically need
- Degree parchment in original language, complete official transcripts, certified English translations, passport bio page
What to keep in mind
An IQA is mandatory for the 6-point Skilled Migrant Category unless your qualification is on the official LQEA exempt list.
Official source: New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
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