Approved SMS

The Ministry has approved the Student Management Systems (SMS) versions below for 2026 roll returns. This table is being updated frequently.

Make sure your SMS version is up-to-date. Use a version above or a more recent version if available. Web-based SMS should update your versions automatically.

A SMS makes it easier for you to send roll returns to the Ministry. All approved SMS have the eReturns function that sends the student data file (moe file) directly to us.

Electronic roll returns

We have improved the school roll return process, making it easier and faster for schools to complete. The changes are summarised below:

• Completing audit class lists are optional.
• We moved to only electronic data supply of roll returns, eliminating paper-based roll return forms.
• We now let you know by email when we receive your electronic roll return.
• We get back to you sooner with an automated data quality report if we have any concerns with your submission.

The new process is described below. If you have any questions or you would like more information, please feel free to contact us at school.returns@education.govt.nz

Which schools can send electronic roll returns?

Any school using a Ministry approved SMS will only need to send an electronic roll return from their SMS. This means no more paper-based roll return forms.

How do schools complete their electronic roll returns?

The main difference from previous years is schools will not need to send paper-based returns. Running roll returns in the SMSs remains unchanged, except schools with SMSs that have the electronic approval function will need their principals to approve the return on screen before it can be sent.

What is electronic approval?

Electronic approval is a SMS function that allows a principal to check and approve their return on screen in their SMS before it can be sent to the Ministry. This replaces the declaration principals used to sign on the paper-based forms and adds the following data fields to the .moe file:

• Approver name.
• Approver role.
• Approval date.
• Donations scheme response (in July only).

All SMS vendors have now implemented electronic approval and your principal must complete the declaration prior to submitting your roll file.

What is in the electronic roll return?

The electronic roll return (or .moe file) is part of a stable and reliable system that has been steadily improved over many years.

For a full list of fields in the .moe file refer to the Student management system roll return specification manual.

What if my school doesn't use an SMS?

For schools not using an SMS you will need to complete a roll return spreadsheet and submit that using the Ministry's secure online portal. The Excel spreadsheet will be available here.

What are the benefits of electronic roll returns?

Electronic roll returns will reduce compliance burden on schools. Schools have been able to send electronic roll returns for many years, but have also been required to print summary data tables, attach these to a paper form and have the principal sign the form. Electronic roll returns combines the student-level data, the summary data and the sign-off into a single electronic return. This will make the returns easier and faster to complete.

In addition, we will be able to send schools earlier notification of receipt of the electronic return and earlier notification of potential issues in the return.

What records should schools keep?

Schools will still need to print their audit lists and keep these on-site for audit purposes. Note that completing audit class lists will be optional.

Schools should also print their roll return tables so they can review their roll summaries. Schools should keep these on-site for their records and for tabling at their next BOT meeting.

We value your feedback

Do you have any other ideas that would reduce the time and effort it takes to send data and information to the Ministry? We'd like to hear more. Please contact us at school.returns@education.govt.nz with your ideas and suggestions.

Roll return guidelines and queries

The 2026 roll return guidelines will be on the Guidelines page of Education Counts.

For any queries about the roll returns process please email the Ministry: School Returns mailbox