Qualification Levels

  • In the UK, there are 9 different levels used for educational and vocational (work related) qualification awards. It can be important to know these as you may see that course entrance requirements specify a certain level of qualification. Here are the main ones you should know about:
  • Level 1/2 – equivalent to GCSEs which are school subject examinations taken usually at age 16
  • Level 3 – equivalent to A Levels which are school subject examinations taken usually at age 18
  • Level 4 – Certificate level qualification awards such as HNC
  • Level 5 – Diploma level awards such as HND
  • Level 6 – Undergraduate degrees such as BA, BSc and sometimes with honours (Hons)
  • Level 7 – Postgraduate Masters degrees such as MA, MSc, MRes
  • Level 8 – Postgraduate Doctoral awards such as PhD

The full detailed list may be found on the UK Government website. To view the list please click HERE (you will be taken to the UK Government site).