Help - Qualification levels explained
Learn more about qualification levels
Quick Overview
Qualifications have a level, which refers to the National Qualification Framework(NQF). If qualifications have 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.
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.
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.
| Academic qualification name | Vocational qualification name |
|---|---|
|
GCSE/SCE/O-levels below grade C (or less than 5 subjects at grade A to C) CSE below grade 1 1 AS level |
BTEC/SCOTBTEC/SQA First Certificate BEC/SCOTBEC General Certificate/Diploma City & Guilds Operative Awards CPVE Year 1 (Technician) LCCI/RSA/PEI Elementary/First Level RSA Vocational Certificate Foundation GNVQ/GSVQ NVQ/SVQ Level 1 |
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.
| Academic qualification name | Vocational qualification name |
|---|---|
|
5 or more GCSEs/SCEs/O-levels at grade A to C CSE grade 1 1 A level 2 or 3 AS levels |
BTEC/SCOTVEC/SQA First diploma BEC/SCOTBEC/BTEC/SCOTVEC/SQA General Certificate/Diploma with Credit City & Guilds Higher Operative/craft LCCI Certificate/ Second level PEI Stage 2 Pitmans Intermediate Level 2 Diploma Certificate RSA Diploma Intermediate GNVQ/GSVQ NVQ/SVQ Level 2 |
Other Levels
The above summaries will give you some insight into the different qualification levels. There are nine levels in total from entry level to level 8 and you can find further information on each level by visiting the help page NQF References explained.
To find learning opportunities by different qualification levels try the Search by Level.