Qualifications

The levels at which UK qualifications can be recognised is set out by the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Every qualification is given a particular level, which describes the achievement and learning needed to gain the qualification, and shows how the knowledge and skills relate to job roles.

The NQF has 8 levels covering all levels of learning in secondary education, further education and higher education. There is also an Entry Level status for learners working below the level required for GCSE.

The framework enables learners to make informed decisions on the qualifications they want to follow, by comparing the levels of different qualifications and identifying clear progression routes to their chosen career. Although the qualifications sharing the same level may be very different in terms of duration and content, they will be fairly similar in terms of the demands they place on the learner.

In this section, you'll find information on all the qualifications offered in the National Qualifications Framework, ranging from entry level certificates, through to GCSEs, A levels, NVQs and undergraduate degrees, to the highest level of specialist awards and doctorates.