The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) sets out the level at which a qualification can be recognised in England, Northern Ireland and Wales.
The framework groups together qualifications that place similar demands on you as a learner. However, within any one level, qualifications can cover a wide mix of subjects, and take different amounts of time to complete.
The NQF can also help you see how one type of qualification can lead on to other, higher levels of qualifications.
Only qualifications that have been accredited by the three regulators for England, Wales and Northern Ireland can be included in the NQF. This ensures that all qualifications within the framework are of high quality, and meet the needs of learners and employers.
| National Qualifications Framework (NQF) |
|
Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) |
|
Current levels(Examples) |
Levels
(Examples) |
|
Level 8
Specialist awards |
D (doctoral) Doctorates |
Level 7
Level 7 Diploma in Translation |
M (masters) Masters degrees, postgraduate certificates and diplomas |
|
Level 6
Level 6 National Diploma in Professional Production Skills |
H (honours) Bachelor degrees, graduate certificates and diplomas |
Level 5
Level 5 BTEC Higher National Diploma in 3D Design |
I (intermediate) Diplomas of higher education and further education, foundation degrees and higher national diplomas |
Level 4
Level 4 Certificate in Early Years Practice |
C (certificate) Certificates of higher education |
Level 3
Level 3 Certificate in Small Animal Care
Level 3 NVQ in Aeronautical Engineering
A levels |
|
Level 2
Level 2 Diploma for Beauty Specialists
Level 2 NVQ in Agricultural Crop Production
GCSEs Grades A*-C |
Level 1
Level 1 Certificate in Motor Vehicle Studies
Level 1 NVQ in Bakery
GCSEs Grades D-G |
Entry level
Entry Level Certificate in Adult Literacy |