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The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) sets out the level at which qualifications can be recognised in England, Northern Ireland and Wales.
The framework groups together qualifications that place similar demands on you as a learner. However, within any one level, qualifications can cover a wide mix of subjects, and take different amounts of time to complete. The NQF can also help you see how one type of qualification can lead on to other, higher levels of qualifications.
| Level | Examples of qualifications |
| Entry | Entry level certificates, introductory courses, Skills for Life at entry level |
| 1 | GCSE grades D-G, BTEC Introductory Diplomas and Certificates, OCR Nationals, Key Skills level 1, NVQ 1, Skills for Life. |
| 2 | GCSE grades A*-C, BTEC First Diplomas and Certificates, OCR Nationals, Key Skills level 2, NVQ 2, Skills for Life. |
| 3 | A Levels, Advanced Extension Awards, GCE in applied subjects, International Baccalaureate, Key Skills level 3, NVQ 3, BTEC Diplomas, Certificates and Awards, BTEC Nationals, OCR Nationals. |
| 4 | Key Skills level 4, NVQ 4, BTEC Professional Diplomas, Certificates and Awards, Certificates of Higher Education. |
| 5 | HNCs and HNDs, NVQ 5, BTEC Professional Diplomas, Certificates and Awards, Foundation Degrees, Ordinary (Bachelors) Degrees, Diplomas of Higher Education and Further Education, Higher National Diplomas and other Higher Diplomas. |
| 6 | National Diplomas in Professional Production Skills, BTEC Advanced Professional Diplomas, Certificates and Awards, Bachelors Degrees with Honours, Graduate Certificates and Graduate Diplomas. |
| 7 | Diploma in Translation, BTEC Advanced Professional Diplomas, Certificates and Awards, Masters Degrees, Postgraduate Certificates and Postgraduate Diplomas. |
| 8 | Specialist Awards and Doctorates. |
Source: Direct.gov.uk
