New Zealand Qualifications Authority
The government agency that runs New Zealand's qualifications framework and assesses overseas qualifications.
nzqa.govt.nz ↗
NZQA & IQA explained
What your qualification means in New Zealand.
Your qualification may be genuine and respected in Ghana, but New Zealand employers, councils and Immigration NZ need to know how it compares with their own system. That's what an International Qualification Assessment (IQA) from NZQA tells them.
NZQAExample only
Recognition statement
Bachelor of Education (Basic Education)
Awarded in Ghana
Comparable toNZQCF Level 7
Qualification typeBachelor's degree
Illustration only. NZQA decides every outcome, and your result may differ.
The basics
Three terms, in plain language.
International Qualification Assessment
NZQA's evaluation of your overseas qualification against the New Zealand framework.
Recognition statement
The electronic result of your IQA. It shows the comparable New Zealand level and qualification type.
Important: the title on your certificate does not decide its New Zealand level. NZQA decides, based on your qualification and the evidence you provide.
The framework
New Zealand has 10 qualification levels.
Higher levels mean more complex knowledge and skills. Tap a level to see the qualifications that usually sit there and why it matters.
Level 4+Where work visa skill rules start to count qualifications
Level 7Bachelor's degree. Below this, an IQA is generally needed for work visas
The NZ qualifications framework
Tap a levelL1L2L3L4L5L6L7L8L9L10
Level 7
Bachelor's degree, graduate diploma
A key level for many visa skill rules. Below a Level 7 bachelor's degree, Immigration NZ generally requires an NZQA IQA for work visa skill evidence.
Certificates
Diplomas
Degrees
Postgraduate
Types of IQA
Which IQA fits you?
NZQA offers different IQA types. The right one depends on your profession and why you need it.
NZ$445
Standard IQA
For most qualifications, including diplomas, HNDs and degrees used for work visas or jobs.
Diploma, HND, degree holdersOfficial NZQA fee per our guide · verify~NZ$746
Teaching IQA
Required for overseas-trained teachers before Teaching Council registration.
TeachersReported by third-party sites · verify~NZ$610
Skill Shortage List IQA
For qualifications linked to roles on New Zealand's skill shortage lists.
Shortage occupationsReported by third-party sites · verifyFees change. We confirm the current fee on NZQA's official fees page before you pay anything.
How an IQA works
From application to recognition statement.
The most important rule: NZQA only starts assessing once your file is complete.
Apply online
Create an NZQA account, choose the IQA type and pay the official fee.
Send your documents
Upload yours, and have your institution send any documents NZQA needs directly.
NZQA evaluates
The clock starts when your file is complete. Missing documents cause most delays.
Recognition statement
You receive your result electronically, ready to share with employers and authorities.
IssuedNo guaranteed levelNZQA decides based on your evidence.
Limited refundsThird-party sources say fees aren't refunded if the level is lower than hoped.
Appeals are narrowReported as only for NZQA errors, with a fee and a 3-month window. Verify on NZQA's site.
Why start early
Six reasons not to wait for a job offer.
Know where you stand
Understand how your qualification compares before you apply for anything.
Prepare without pressure
Sort documents before a job or visa deadline is breathing down your neck.
Avoid last-minute delays
NZQA only starts once your file is complete. Early means complete.
Make better career choices
Target roles that match your New Zealand level.
Be ready for employers
Have your recognition statement ready when they ask.
Plan your next step
See whether you also need registration or career preparation.
Who usually needs one
Find your situation.
FAQ
Common questions about IQAs.
Still unsure? Ask our assistant or chat with us on WhatsApp.
Can I apply to NZQA myself?+
Yes. Anyone can apply directly to NZQA. We help people who want their documents checked, the application prepared properly and the process tracked, so nothing is missed.
Is QualiPath part of NZQA?+
No. QualiPath is an independent business, not affiliated with NZQA. Official fees are paid directly to NZQA.
How long is a recognition statement valid?+
It describes your qualification, so it doesn't usually need redoing. Individual employers or authorities may have their own rules, which we check for you.
What if my result is lower than I expected?+
We explain what it means and your options. You can appeal within 20 working days of your recognition statement, for an NZ$765 fee, which is why getting your evidence right first time matters.
Do I need to translate my documents?+
Only documents not in English. Most Ghanaian documents are in English already.
Get started
Find out if you need an IQA, free.
A free 30-minute call and a one-page summary of your exact steps. Pathway guidance only, no obligation to continue.
Book my free pathway reviewFree 30-minute callOne-page summaryNo obligation
