Qualification Levels and Types Level
Simple explanation
Typical examples
Entry Level
Basic skills and knowledge for people starting their learning journey.
Entry Level Certificates, ESOL Entry courses
Level 1
Foundation knowledge. Builds confidence and basic practical skills. Roughly similar to GCSE grades 3–1 (previously known as D–G).
GCSE grades 3–1, BTEC Level 1, Functional Skills Level 1
Level 2
A good standard of knowledge and skills. Often, the minimum level employers ask for is English and Maths. Equivalent to GCSE grades 9–4 (previously known as A*–C).
GCSE grades 9–4, BTEC Level 2, Functional Skills Level
Level 3
Advanced study, usually taken after Level 2. This is the main route into university or higher apprenticeships.
A Levels, T Levels, BTEC National Diploma
Level 4
Higher Education, beyond A Levels.
Higher National Certificate (HNC), Certificate of Higher Education
Level 5
More specialised Higher Education with greater responsibility and technical knowledge.
Higher National Diploma (HND), Foundation Degree
Level 6
Graduate level, showing in-depth knowledge and independent thinking.
Bachelor’s Degree
Level 7
Postgraduate level, involving advanced study and research.
Master’s Degree, Postgraduate Certificate
Level 8
The highest academic level, creating new knowledge through original research.
Doctorate (PhD), Professional Doctorate
Award
Certificate
Diploma
Small
Medium
Large
Covers a specific topic or skill. Can often be completed in a short period.
More in-depth than an award and covers a broader range of knowledge and skills.
A substantial programme of study with a wide range of learning and assessment.