Qualifications: what the different levels mean
Different types of qualifications are grouped together into various 'levels'. This can help you and employers to see how different qualifications compare and how one type can lead on to another. More …
Essential Skills
If you need help with reading, writing, working with numbers or using a computer an Essential Skills course may help you. More …
Entry level qualifications
If you want to gain a qualification that is recognised across the UK, but don't feel ready for GCSEs or equivalent qualifications, an Entry Level Certificate could be for you. They are available in a wide range of subjects. More …
GCSEs
GCSEs are the main qualification taken by 14 to 16-year-olds, but are available to anyone who would like to study a subject that interests them. You can take GCSEs in a wide range of academic and 'applied' or work-related subjects. More …
Key Skills qualifications
If you want to acquire or develop the skills to help you get on at school, FE college, work or home, or show what you already know, a Key Skills qualification could be for you. More …
AS and A levels
If you want to study a particular subject in detail, AS and A level qualifications may be for you. They are highly valued by schools, colleges and employers. More …
BTECs, OCR Nationals and other vocational qualifications
If you want to learn more about a particular job or area of work, there are many vocational qualifications you can choose from, like BTEC qualifications and OCR Nationals. More …
Higher National Certificates and Diplomas
Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) are work-related, or vocational, higher education qualifications. They are Level 5 qualifications. More …
Foundation Degrees
A Foundation degree is a higher education qualification which combines academic and work related learning and offers a route into employment or university and is a way to improve your skills. More …
Postgraduate qualifications
If you want to continue your studies after a bachelor's degree, or learn more about a particular subject, there are a range of postgraduate qualifications available. Some are linked to a specific profession, while others allow you to complete an original piece of research. More …
NVQs
If you want to get a recognised qualification related to a particular industry or sector, a National Vocational Qualification, or NVQ, may be for you. You can study NVQs at work, FE college, or as part of an apprenticeship. More …
Qualification and Credit Framework
Vocational qualifications on the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) are work-related qualifications. They are designed to allow you to learn in a way that suits you, and give you the skills that employers are looking for. There are lots to choose from, in a wide range of subjects. More...