Confused by all the qualifications?

There are so many qualifications it can be difficult to understand how they all relate to each other and how they compare with others. Check out the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) below, or have a look at the QCA website.

You can also ask your Connexions Personal Adviser (PA) or careers teacher for help. Remember by getting qualifications and training, you’ll have a better chance of getting your dream job in the future, you’re likely to get paid more and have the lifestyle you want.

Qualification Level	Examples of qualifications at this level	Indicators of knowledge at this level
Entry Level	Entry 1, Entry 2, and Entry 3 in a range of areas including curriculum subjects, life skills, basic skills and skills for working life.	Basic knowledge, understanding, and skills in the area studied.
Level 1	GCSE grades D-G, ASDAN Level 1 certificates, basic and key skills, Vocationally Related Qualifications (VRQs) at Level 1 e.g. BTEC Introductory, NVQ Level 1, Certificate in Motor Vehicle Studies.	Basic knowledge, understanding and skills, and the ability to use these in everyday life and further learning.
Level 2	GCSE grades A*-C, VRQ Level 2 e.g. City & Guilds Progression award, Diploma for Beauty Specialists, NVQ Level 2.	Increased knowledge and skills related to the subject you study, and having the ability to apply these to tasks.
Level 3	All GCE/VCE AS and A levels, VRQ Level 3 e.g. Certificate in Small Animal Care, NVQ Level 3, Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, music grades 6, 7 and 8.	In-depth knowledge, understanding and skills, and the ability to apply these to tasks at a higher level. Appropriate for entry to higher education, or for further training or employment.
Levels 4-8	Certificates and Diplomas of Higher Education, Bachelor’s degrees, postgraduate qualifications, professional qualifications, Foundation degrees, Higher National Certificates and Diplomas, key skills at Level 4, NVQ Levels 4 and 5, and teaching qualifications.	A high level of knowledge in a specific area of work or study. Appropriate for people working or aiming to move into professional roles including management and training others.