UNDERSTANDING THE INTERNATIONAL QUALIFICATION ASSESSMENT (IQA)
- Joice M. Jose MSW, GDTAS, RMA, NZLIA
- Jun 27
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 hours ago
By Joice M. Jose MSW, GDTAS
Australian Registered Migration Agent (MARN: 2318264)
New Zealand Licensed Immigration Adviser since 2011 (NZLIA # 201100295)
📱 Mob/WhatsApp/BOTIM: +61 432 847 291
📧 Email: support@fortuneimmigration.com
Are you dreaming of building a new life in New Zealand – working in your field, pursuing further studies, or making it your permanent home? If you've earned your qualifications outside of New Zealand, there's a crucial step that often comes into play: the International Qualification Assessment (IQA).
So, what exactly is an IQA, and why is it so important? Let's break it down!
What is an IQA?
An IQA is an official evaluation by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). It's designed to compare your international qualifications (like your degrees or diplomas) to the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF). Think of it as translating your academic achievements into the New Zealand education language. This assessment helps Immigration New Zealand, potential employers, and educational institutions understand the level and type of qualification you hold, ensuring it meets the standards required in New Zealand.
Why You Might Need an IQA?
An IQA isn't always mandatory, but it's often a key requirement for several pathways to New Zealand:
Resident Visas (Especially Skilled Migrant Category): If you're applying for a resident visa based on your skills and qualifications, an IQA is typically required to prove your eligibility and claim points.
Occupational Registration: Many professions in New Zealand, such as teaching, nursing, or engineering, require you to be registered with a specific professional body. This often involves an IQA to ensure your overseas qualifications are recognized for registration.
Further Study: Planning to enroll in a New Zealand university or polytechnic? Many institutions will ask for an IQA to assess your academic readiness for their programs.
Certain Work Visas: While not always required, some work visas, especially those linked to the Green List (in-demand occupations), may also necessitate an IQA.
The Benefits of Having an IQA
Beyond being a requirement, an IQA offers clear advantages:
Clarity and Recognition: It provides official recognition of your hard-earned qualifications, making it easier for New Zealand entities to understand your academic background.
Streamlined Processes: Having your IQA ready can significantly speed up your visa application, job search, or university admission process.
Fair Assessment: It ensures your qualifications are assessed against a consistent national standard, promoting fairness in immigration, employment, and education.
Navigating the IQA Process
The IQA process involves submitting your academic documents to NZQA for evaluation. This typically includes:
Certified copies of your diplomas and transcripts.
Official translations if your documents are not in English.
Direct verification from your awarding institution (often required).
While some qualifications from specific countries might be exempt, it's always best to check the latest requirements on the Immigration New Zealand and NZQA websites.
We're here to help! If you have any questions, or want to seek any professional assistance don't hesitate to reach out to the Fortune Immigration and Education team.
Contact us today:
Phone/Mobile/WhatsApp/Botim: +61 432 847 291
Disclaimer: This article is valid only at the time of initial publication and is subject to change. The content does not constitute legal advice or recommendations and should not be relied upon as such. Always seek legal and professional immigration or education advice as your situation may differ from the general guidelines provided.
