Registering a new private training establishment

Information and links to essential reading for organisations that want to register as a private training establishment

A private training establishment (PTE) provides tertiary education or vocational training.

It's separate to institutions, such as Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, universities and wānanga.

Before we can register a PTE, we need to be certain it will be governed and managed with integrity, and provide high-quality education and a sound and stable learning environment.

What PTEs can do

Registered PTEs can apply to enrol international students as a Code of Practice signatory.

They can also assess against standards, deliver education leading to qualifications or micro-credentials on the New Zealand Qualification and Credentials Framework (NZQCF).

Registered PTEs can seek Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) funding. Some government agencies only fund training towards NZQA-approved qualifications, programmes and micro-credentials.

PTE obligations

PTEs must initially meet and continue to meet our criteria for registration and any relevant NZQA Rules.

All PTEs must also undertake regular self-assessment and participate in external evaluation and review (EER).

Self-assessment is when a tertiary education organisation (TEO) assesses itself to identify strengths and weaknesses, and to make improvements.

EER is the independent review of non-university tertiary education organisations by NZQA.

More information

Maintaining PTE registration

About self-assessment

About EER

Rules and requirements

PTEs are covered by and must comply with sections 342 to 361 of the Education and Training Act 2020 (the Act), and the Private Training Establishment Registration Rules 2022.

Go to section 342 of the Act (external link)

Go to the Private Training Establishment Registration Rules 2022

Guidelines for registration

The guidelines for registration as a PTE set out:

  • how to apply
  • what we consider when evaluating a registration application
  • what evidence you need to provide with your application
  • costs for registration
  • the requirements for registration, as outlined in Subpart 5 of Part 4 of the Education and Training Act 2020
  • guidance on the Private Training Establishment Registration Rules 2022
  • further statutory requirements and the NZQA rules that apply to PTEs.

Go to the guidelines for applying for PTE registration

If you have any questions about registering as a PTE, complete this online form