Apply for an Overseas Study Assessment

If you are a New Zealander planning to study overseas for a level 7 or post-graduate qualification, you can apply for:

• an interest-free student loan for this course of study
• an exemption from paying any interest on your current student loan.

Under section 253(1)(c) of the Education Act 1989, you will need to supply Inland Revenue (IRD) with confirmation from NZQA that your study is comparable to levels 7, 8, 9 or 10 of the New Zealand Qualifications Framework. If currently studying overseas, you will need to provide evidence to IRD that you have been enrolled full-time in your course.

More information on eligibility and the requirements for exemptions is available from Inland Revenue (IRD).

How long will it take?

An Overseas Study Assessment will be issued to you within 20 working days of submission of a correctly completed application and confirmation of payment. There is no fast track option available for this service.

How do I apply?

Complete the online application form. You will be given login details, and you will be able to return to your application at any time to complete details or check progress. If you already have a login from a previous application, you can use that.

Before proceeding with an application, see Terms and Conditions – Overseas Study Assessment (OSA) and the Guide to applying online for an Overseas Study Assessment (PDF, 248KB).

How much does it cost and how do I pay?

See Assessment fees for information about fees and method of payment.