You can apply to graduate when you are enrolled in your last course(s) for your qualification or after you have completed all the requirements. You need to apply to graduate to have your qualification awarded and receive your certificate.
- If your qualification is at certificate level, we will courier your award to you.
- If your qualification is at diploma or degree level, you can choose to attend a graduation ceremony or be awarded your qualification in absentia.
We will check your eligibility and contact you if needed.
You must have paid all fees to have your qualification awarded and be issued your official documentation. If you have any questions, contact us.
Learn more about the process for applying to graduate
If you have studied courses at another institute towards this qualification, you need apply to have them transferred onto your academic record with Open Polytechnic. If you have not already done this, complete and return the Application for Cross-Credit or Credit-Transfer.
If you have studied at more than one education provider, the institution at which you completed most of your study will award your qualification.
Apply to graduate
Please login to My Open Polytechnic to check all your personal details and contact details are correct before you apply. Your courier package (requiring a signature) and/or graduation information will be sent to your postal address.
Select the application form for your qualification (certificate, diploma or degree) from the options below.
Application for award of a Degree
If you are in urgent need of your academic transcript or qualification certificate please visit this page for information:
Attending a graduation ceremony – New Zealand Diploma, Open Polytechnic Diploma or Degree
You may receive your award at a graduation ceremony if you are graduating with one of the following qualifications:
- a New Zealand Diploma
- Open Polytechnic Diploma
- Degree
- Graduate Diploma.
Graduation ceremonies are held each year. Applications must be received by the published closing date. Eligible graduands will be sent further information about the ceremony, including dates and arrangements prior to the ceremony.
Applications for a 2026 graduation ceremony are now closed.
Any applications received will be considered for 2027 graduation ceremonies (dates to be confirmed – normally in May 2027).
Further details about attending a graduation ceremony are linked here:
Receiving your award in absentia
If you do not wish to attend a graduation ceremony, you may choose to graduate in absentia. Your award will be sent to you by courier (signature required).
Please ensure your postal address is correct and up to date in MyOP.
Certificate level awards and receiving your award by courier
If you have completed a certificate level qualification, or not able to attend a ceremony, we will courier your award to you with an academic transcript, a signature will be required.
If you are eligible to attend a graduation ceremony, your name and award will be listed in the in-absentia section of the graduation booklet.
Lost or damaged certificates
Electronic copies of academic transcripts and certificates are not available.
If your certificate is lost or damaged, please contact us by email with details and the relevant evidence.
A service fee applies for the re-issue of a certificate.
- If it is lost, you must provide evidence of this, such as a police report or other relevant documentation.
- If it is damaged, you must return it to us.
Need help?
If you have any questions about applying to graduate contact our Academic Registry by email or phone:
- Academic Registry email
- Freephone 0508 650 200.