Each accredited qualification has an NQF level. If qualifications share the same level this means that they are broadly similar in terms of the demand they place on the learner. However, qualifications at the same level can still be very different in terms of content and duration.
The following table shows a selection of individual qualifications and how they appear in the current NQF. It also highlights how these more precise levels broadly compare to the Framework for Higher Education Qualification (FHEQ) levels.
For a full list of all accredited qualifications in the NQF please visit NDAQ, QCA's freely searchable website.
To view a pdf of the qualificaion framework click here.
| 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 |