UK Education Levels Explained
The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) sets the formal structure of education levels in UK. The Framework was introduced in 2015 and combined the two previous frameworks, the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF).
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RQF is structured into 8 Levels from the most basic levels that introduces the education in Level 1 to the highest Level 8 that presents the highest degree that can be offered in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, which is the Doctorate Degree.
Level 1
Level 1 often achieved in Years 10 and 11 of secondary school, Level 1 qualifications are the first formal rung on the numbered system of qualifications.
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Examples of Level 1 qualifications include:
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GCSE grades 3, 2 or 1 (previously grades D, E, F or G)
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Level 1 functional or essential skills
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Level 1 awards and diplomas
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Level 1 certificates
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Perfect for
Those looking to further their education. You won’t necessarily have to complete an entry level qualification to move onto Level 1.
Level 2
Level 2 is the next step up from Level 1, and is also often achieved in Years 10 and 11.
Examples of Level 2 qualifications include:
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GCSE grades 9, 8, 7, 6, 5 or 4 (previously grades A*, A, B or C)
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O level (grades A, B or C)
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Grade 1 at CSE level
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Level 2 functional or essential skills
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Level 2 awards and diplomas
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Level 2 certificates
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Music grades 4 and 5
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Intermediate apprenticeships
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Level 2 ESOL
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Perfect for
Those aged 15-6, or anyone looking to further their education. Because of the high standard of their grades, Level 2 learners will usually progress to Level 3 qualifications.
Level 3
Level 3 generally shows greater knowledge in a subject, and is often achieved in Years 12 and 13, or in centers for further education.
Examples of Level 3 qualifications include:
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A level (grades A, B, C, D or E)
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Advanced subsidiary (AS) level
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Tech level
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Applied general
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Level 3 awards, diplomas and certificates
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Music grades 6, 7 and 8
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Advanced apprenticeships
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Access to higher education diploma
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International Baccalaureate diploma
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Level 3 ESOL
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Perfect for
Those who are looking to continue their education after the minimum school leaving age, or are interested in specialising in a particular subject.
Level 4
Level 4 is indicative of a greater understanding and a higher level of learning than that gained through core modules at secondary education level.
Examples of Level 4 qualifications include:
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Level 4 awards
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Level 4 diplomas
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Level 4 certificates
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Level 4 NVQ
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Higher apprenticeships
Perfect for
Level 4 acts as the bridge between level 3 and 5, and can help people progress to the next stage of education when they might not have been able to with their previous qualifications.
Level 5
Level 5 demonstrates knowledge of a subject which goes beyond the level taught at secondary education.
Examples of Level 5 qualifications include:
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Foundation degree
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Diploma of higher education (DipHE)
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Level 5 awards, diplomas and certificates
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Perfect for
Anyone looking to move on to university, or other forms of higher education.
Level 6
Level 6 refers to qualifications gained at degree level, indicating the holder has graduated from a centre for further education.
Examples of Level 6 qualifications include:
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Bachelor’s degree (with or without honours)
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Graduate diploma
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Graduate certificate
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Level 6 awards, diplomas and certificates
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Degree apprenticeship
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Perfect for
Anyone who wants to take their knowledge of a subject past secondary education level – whether that’s to gain a degree of a higher level NVQ or certificate. It’s also the first step for those looking to pursue a master’s.
Level 7
Level 7 refers to a level of education equivalent to a master’s degree, and is generally attained in a centre for further education.
Examples of Level 7 qualifications include:
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Integrated master’s degree
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Postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE)
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Postgraduate diplomas and certificates
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Level 7 awards, diplomas and certificates
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Perfect for
Anyone looking for a qualification which validates knowledge beyond degree level. After Level 7, there’s only one more level – a doctorate (PhD) or its equivalent.
Level 8
Level 8 refers to a doctorate level of education, often known as a PhD.
Examples of Level 8 qualifications include:
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Doctorate or PhD
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Level 8 awards, diplomas and certificates
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Perfect for
Anyone looking to achieve the highest formal level of education possible in England, Wales and Northern Ireland – and to become a fully qualified Doctor.