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National Qualifications Framework

All qualifications fit into a national framework. The framework has nine levels that people often use as shorthand to describe the qualifications needed for a particular job or course.

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Entry Level Qualifications

  • These are called Entry Level Certificates.
  • They develop basic knowledge, understanding and skills in a particular subject or area.
  • They build confidence and help people to prepare for further learning, work and independent living.

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Level 1 Qualifications

  • These include National Vocational Qualifications at Level 1, GCSEs achieved at grades D-G, the Foundation Diploma, and vocationally related qualifications such as BTEC Introductory Certificates and Diplomas, and City & Guilds Foundation Awards.
  • These qualifications improve basic knowledge, understanding and skills in a subject, a specific work area or a broad economic sector.
  • They help people to use their learning in everyday situations and tasks.
  • They help people to prepare for other Level 1 qualifications and for qualifications at Levels 2 and 3.

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Level 2 Qualifications

  • These include National Vocational Qualifications at Level 2, GCSEs achieved at grades A*-C, the Higher Diploma, and vocationally related qualifications, such as the BTEC First Diploma, and City & Guilds Intermediate Awards.
  • These qualifications build knowledge, understanding and skills in a subject, a specific work area or a broad economic sector.
  • They enable people to use their learning in a wide range of tasks.
  • They help people to prepare for other Level 2 qualifications and for qualifications at Level 3.
  • Most employers use this level as their minimum entry requirement.

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Level 3 Qualifications

  • These include National Vocational Qualifications at Level 3, A/AS Levels, the Advanced and Progression Diplomas, the International Baccalaureate, the BTEC National Award, and City & Guilds Advanced Awards.
  • These qualifications develop detailed knowledge, understanding and skills in a subject, a specific work area or a broad economic sector.
  • They help people to use their learning in a wide range of tasks and situations.
  • They help people to prepare for other Level 3 qualifications and for qualifications at Level 4.
  • Universities expect most applicants to be qualified to this level.
  • Employers will increasingly look for applicants who are qualified to at least this level.

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Qualifications at Levels 4 to 8

  • These include National Vocational Qualifications at Levels 4 and 5, Foundation degrees and honours degrees, Higher National Certificates and Diplomas, specialist professional qualifications and postgraduate qualifications.
  • These qualifications involve in-depth learning about a specific occupational role or area of study.
  • They help people to become specialists in their area of learning or work.

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Find out more about qualifications and courses.

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