Help - NQF References explained
Your introduction to the National Qualification Framework (NQF) References.
Quick overview
The NQF now comprises nine levels (entry level to level 8). 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.
NQF Levels
For a full list of all accredited qualifications in the NQF visit NDAQ (National Database of Accredited Qualifications).
The level indicators in the NQF are a guide to its range of qualifications and levels. They describe the learning and achievement that happens at each level and show how the skills and knowledge relate to job roles. The indicators are not intended to be precise or comprehensive - they are working guides. The level indicators have been designed for:
- individual learners
- parents
- teachers/tutors/trainers
- careers advisers
- employers
Entry
Entry level qualifications recognise basic knowledge and skills and the ability to apply learning in everyday situations under direct guidance or supervision. Learning at this level involves building basic knowledge and skills and is not geared towards specific occupations.
Examples of qualifications - Qualifications are offered at entry 1, entry 2 and entry 3, in a range of subjects.
Level 1
Level 1 qualifications recognise basic knowledge and skills and the ability to apply learning with guidance or supervision. Learning at this level is about activities that mostly relate to everyday situations and may be linked to job competence.
Examples of qualifications - NVQ 1; Certificate in Plastering; GCSEs Grades D-G; Certificate in Motor Vehicle Studies.
Level 2
Level 2 qualifications recognise the ability to gain a good knowledge and understanding of a subject area of work or study, and to perform varied tasks with some guidance or supervision. Learning at this level involves building knowledge and/or skills in relation to an area of work or a subject area and is appropriate for many job roles.
Examples of qualifications - NVQ 2; GCSEs Grades A*- C; Certificate in Coaching Football; Diploma for Beauty Specialists.
Level 3
Level 3 qualifications recognise the ability to gain, and where relevant apply a range of knowledge, skills and understanding. Learning at this level involves obtaining detailed knowledge and skills. It is appropriate for people wishing to go to university, people working independently, or in some areas supervising and training others in their field of work.
Examples of qualifications - Certificate for Teaching Assistants; NVQ 3; A levels; Advanced Extension Awards; Certificate in Small Animal Care.
Level 4
Level 4 qualifications recognise specialist learning and involve detailed analysis of a high level of information and knowledge in an area of work or study. Learning at this level is appropriate for people working in technical and professional jobs, and/or managing and developing others. Level 4 qualifications are at a level equivalent to Certificates of Higher Education.
Examples of qualifications - Diploma in Sport and Recreation; Certificate in Site Management; Certificate in Early Years Practice.
Level 5
Level 5 qualifications recognise the ability to increase the depth of knowledge and understanding of an area of work or study to enable the formulation of solutions and responses to complex problems and situations. Learning at this level involves the demonstration of high levels of knowledge, a high level of work expertise in job roles and competence in managing and training others. Qualifications at this level are appropriate for people working as higher grade technicians, professionals or managers. Level 5 qualifications are at a level equivalent to intermediate higher education qualifications such as diplomas of higher education, foundation and other degrees that do not typically provide access to postgraduate programmes.
Examples of qualifications - Diploma in Construction; Certificate in Performing Arts.
Level 6
Level 6 qualifications recognise a specialist high-level knowledge of an area of work or study to enable the use of an individual's own ideas and research in response to complex problems and situations. Learning at this level involves the achievement of a high level of professional knowledge and is appropriate for people working as knowledge-based professionals or in professional management positions. Level 6 qualifications are at a level equivalent to bachelor degrees with honours, graduate certificates and graduate diplomas.
Examples of qualifications - Diploma in Professional Production Skills.
Level 7
Level 7 qualifications recognise highly developed and complex levels of knowledge that enable the development of in-depth and original responses to complicated and unpredictable problems and situations. Learning at this level involves the demonstration of high-level specialist professional knowledge and is appropriate for senior professionals and managers. Level 7 qualifications are at a level equivalent to masters degrees, postgraduate certificates and postgraduate diplomas.
Examples of qualifications - Diploma in Translation; Fellowship in Music Literacy.
Level 8
Level 8 qualifications recognise leading experts or practitioners in a particular field. Learning at this level involves the development of new and creative approaches that extend or redefine existing knowledge or professional practice.
Examples of qualifications - Specialist awards.
Note: currently, qualification titles such as 'certificate' and 'diploma' are not indicators of the level of a qualification.