2027 Delivery Classification Guide changes

Ngā panoni Aratohu Whakarōpū Whakapuakanga 2026

Last updated 2 November 2026
Last updated 2 November 2026

This page provides a summary of changes to the Delivery Classification Guide.

General changes

All of document

Subject Change Reason
Single Data Return (SDR) reporting Added guidance for reporting the correct delivery classification and funding category in the SDR when one course is used across multiple qualifications. To clarify requirements for courses used across multiple qualifications.

All classifications

Subject Change Reason
90 percent subject matter rule Updated wording across the classifications to clarify that at least 90 percent of a course’s content or subject matter must relate to the classification being used, unless the programme basis rule applies. To remove ambiguity that this rule only applies to postgraduate study.
Exclusions and alternative classifications Expanded and standardised the “Do not use this classification” guidance, including directions on which classification to use instead. To reduce ambiguity and inconsistent classification of courses.

Changes to individual classifications

#03.1: Osteopathy; Acupuncture

Subject Change Reason
Acupuncture Added guidance requiring acupuncture training to be accredited under the Chinese Medicine Council (acupuncturist) scope of practice. To clarify the requirements for using this classification.

#11.1: Priority Engineering

Subject Change Reason
Description Expanded classification description to clarify that this classification can be used where qualifications provide a relevant pathway towards becoming, or further development as, an engineering technician, engineering technologist or professional engineer. To clarify the policy intent of this classification.

#11.2: Pilot Training

Subject Change Reason
In-flight training Clarified that this classification may be used only for courses leading to qualifications that include an in-flight training component. To clarify that courses in qualifications that do not have an in-flight training component cannot use this classification.
Approval to use this classification Clarified that if a provider is approved for delivery under this classification, any limitations on use of funding will be set out in their funding confirmation letter. To accurately describe restrictions on use of this classification.

#12: Fine Arts; Design

Subject Change Reason
Eligible non-degree provision Clarified that this classification may only be used for non-degree provision of Fine Arts and Design diplomas at NZQCF Levels 5 and 6. To clarify that delivery below Level 5, and non-degree certificates, cannot use this classification.

#17: Health-Related Professions

Subject Change Reason
Eligible programmes Clarified that a course must be part of an eligible programme listed in the guide to use this classification. To make clear that this classification does not apply broadly to all health-related provision.

#19.1, #19.2 and #20: Teaching

Subject Change Reason
Initial Teacher Education Simplified guidance for when Initial Teacher Education qualifications need to be approved by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand and lead to teacher registration. To make the guidance more concise.

#23: Veterinary

Subject Change Reason
Eligible study Clarified that only courses that are part of the Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc), and postgraduate study following the BVSc, can use this classification. To remove ambiguity about what veterinary postgraduate study can use this classification.
Approval to use this classification Clarified that if a provider is approved for delivery under this classification, any limitations on use of funding will be set out in their funding confirmation letter. To accurately describe restrictions on use of this classification.

Definitions

Subject Change Reason
Non-prescribed electives Removed previous definition of “Elective courses” and added this definition for learner-selected courses that are not part of the required courses for the programme. To clarify which elective courses are excluded from the programme basis rule.
Required courses Added a definition for courses that must be completed to meet programme requirements, including courses selected from a prescribed set. To support application of the programme basis rule.
Subject category Added an explanation of what DQ3-7 subject categories are, and what they are used for. To explain the purpose of subject categories.

Appendix A: The programme basis rule

Subject Change Reason
Expanded guidance Clarified guidance explaining the programme basis rule and how it differs from the 90 percent subject matter rule. To make it clearer when the programme basis rule can be applied.
Consistency of the programme basis rule Clarified that, if the programme basis rule is applied, it must be applied to all required courses in the programme. Otherwise, all courses must be classified under the usual rules. To support consistent application of the programme basis rule.
Examples Added examples for when the programme basis rule can and cannot be applied. To illustrate the programme basis rule in practice.