Developments in 2026 PBRF round

The government has announced the establishment of a University Advisory Group (UAG) chaired by Peter Gluckman. The Terms of Reference (TOR) for this group include a specific focus on the Performance-Based Research Fund (PBRF). As a result, TEC have halted all work on the proposed 2026 PBRF round and the Minister for Tertiary Education has announced that the 2026 round will not go ahead.

PBRF funding will continue to be allocated on the basis of Quality Evaluation 2018 results.

The UAG is due to report to the minister in February 2025.

At OP, research remains important and PBRF funding continues to help support research activity. It is important we continue to engage in and develop quality research to strengthen our disciplines, provide our students with excellent learning opportunities, and be best prepared for whatever shape future funding takes.

Further information, including a link to the UAG’s TOR, is available here:

 University Advisory Group established and PBRF Quality Evaluation 2026 cancelled | Tertiary Education Commission (tec.govt.nz)