Home / Understanding the RQF Level System
Home / Understanding the RQF Level System
Home / Understanding the RQF Level System
The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is a system used in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland to define the level of qualifications. It helps learners understand the level of difficulty and complexity of a qualification, making it easier to compare different qualifications and plan their learning journey.
There are 9 levels in the RQF, ranging from Entry Level to Level 8. Each level is defined by a set of criteria related to the complexity of knowledge, skills, and understanding required to achieve the qualification.
| Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Entry Level | Recognizes basic knowledge and skills. Equivalent to starting primary school. |
| Level 1 | Focuses on basic knowledge and skills. Equivalent to GCSE grades D-G. |
| Level 2 | Requires a good understanding of a subject. Equivalent to GCSE grades A*-C. |
| Level 3 | Advanced knowledge and skills. Equivalent to A-levels. |
| Level 4 | Specialist knowledge and skills. Equivalent to the first year of a bachelor's degree. |
| Level 5 | Advanced specialist knowledge and skills. Equivalent to the second year of a bachelor's degree. |
| Level 6 | Advanced knowledge and skills in a specific area. Equivalent to the final year of a bachelor's degree. |
| Level 7 | Master's degree level. Focuses on highly specialized knowledge and skills. |
| Level 8 | Doctoral level. Requires the highest level of knowledge and skills. |
Understanding the RQF levels can help individuals choose the right qualification for their career goals and personal development. It also helps employers and educational institutions recognize the value of different qualifications and make informed decisions about recruitment and progression.
The RQF provides a clear and consistent framework for understanding the level of qualifications, making it easier for individuals to navigate the education and training system. By knowing the RQF level of a qualification, learners can make informed choices about their learning journey and employers can better understand the skills and knowledge a candidate possesses.