RQF vs QCF vs NVQ explained, what they mean, what changed, and how to write them on your CV
These terms are often mixed up. RQF and QCF are qualification frameworks, NVQ is a vocational qualification type focused on occupational competence. This guide explains the differences in plain English, with a timeline, a comparison table, and practical examples.
Quick answer
RQF and QCF are frameworks used to describe regulated qualifications, NVQ is a competence based vocational qualification type. The QCF rules were withdrawn and the RQF was introduced on 1 October 2015. Older QCF qualifications can still be valid if they were awarded.
In everyday terms, RQF and QCF help you understand level and structure, NVQ tells you the qualification is designed to confirm you can do a job role to an agreed occupational standard.
Simple definitions
RQF, Regulated Qualifications Framework
The RQF is the current framework used for regulated qualifications in England and Northern Ireland. It helps describe the level (difficulty) and size of a qualification. Terms such as Award, Certificate, Diploma usually indicate size, not difficulty. The level (for example Level 2, Level 3, Level 5) indicates challenge and complexity.
QCF, Qualifications and Credit Framework
The QCF was the framework used between 2008 and 2015. It used a credit and unit structure with specific rules for how qualifications were built. From 1 October 2015, the QCF regulatory arrangements were withdrawn and the RQF replaced it.
NVQ, National Vocational Qualification
NVQ refers to competence based vocational qualifications, designed to confirm occupational competence. Assessment often uses workplace evidence, assessor observation, professional discussion, and a portfolio mapped to occupational standards. NVQ can still appear in qualification titles where the qualification is built around recognised occupational standards and competence outcomes.
Simple way to remember it, RQF and QCF tell you the framework, NVQ tells you the vocational purpose and assessment style.
Timeline, how the UK moved from QCF to RQF
- 2008, the QCF framework was introduced, with a unit and credit structure.
- 1 October 2015, the RQF was introduced and the QCF regulatory arrangements were withdrawn.
- Today, the RQF is widely used for regulated qualifications in England and Northern Ireland, while many learners still hold older QCF certificates, which remain valid as awards already achieved.
If your certificate says QCF, it does not mean it is out of date or not recognised. It usually means you achieved the qualification under the framework in place at the time.
Comparison table, RQF vs QCF vs NVQ
This table shows the core difference in a practical way.
| Term | What it is | What it tells you | Typical assessment approach | How it appears on certificates or course pages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RQF | A regulated qualification framework | Level (difficulty) and size descriptors, supports comparison across regulated qualifications | Varies by qualification, could be assignments, exams, practical tasks, observations | Often shown as “RQF Level X”, and may include a regulated qualification number |
| QCF | A regulated qualification framework (older framework rules) | Level and credits within a unit based structure | Often unit based assessment, evidence mapped to learning outcomes and criteria | Often shown as “QCF Level X” on older certificates and documents |
| NVQ | A vocational qualification type focused on occupational competence | That the qualification is designed to confirm job competence against occupational standards | Workplace evidence, observation, professional discussion, portfolio assessment | May appear as “NVQ Level X”, or as an RQF qualification with NVQ in the title |
Key point, NVQ is not “the old framework” and it is not “the new framework”. NVQ describes the vocational model, RQF and QCF describe the framework used to regulate and classify qualifications.
How to check what your qualification is
If you are unsure how to describe your certificate, use these quick checks.
- Look at the certificate wording, it may state RQF or QCF, plus the level.
- Check for a qualification reference number, many regulated qualifications include one.
- Check the awarding organisation specification, it will confirm level, framework, and assessment approach.
- If you need confirmation, search the Ofqual register using the qualification title and awarding organisation.
How to write RQF, QCF, NVQ on your CV and LinkedIn
Write what is accurate and easy for an employer to interpret. Use the official qualification title, awarding organisation, level, and year achieved. If your certificate uses QCF wording, keep the wording as it appears on your certificate.
Good CV format
- Qualification title, Level X (RQF or QCF where shown), awarding organisation, year
- If NVQ is part of the official title, include it as written
- Add “UK regulated qualification” only if it helps clarify for international audiences
Examples
- Level 3 Diploma in Business Management (RQF), awarding organisation, 2025
- Level 2 Certificate in Care (QCF), awarding organisation, 2014
- NVQ Level 2 in Customer Service, awarding organisation, 2012
If you are unsure, do not guess. Use the exact wording from your certificate, or confirm via the awarding organisation specification or the Ofqual register.
Frequently asked questions
Are QCF qualifications still valid
Yes, qualifications awarded under the QCF remain valid as achievements. The change in 2015 relates to the regulatory framework arrangements, not to cancelling awards already achieved.
Does RQF mean the qualification is better than QCF
Not automatically. RQF is the current framework, quality depends on the awarding organisation, assessment design, delivery, and how well the qualification matches the job role or progression goal.
Is an NVQ the same as an apprenticeship
No. An apprenticeship is a training programme that may include one or more qualifications, sometimes including an NVQ style competence qualification. Apprenticeships also include employment and a defined training model.
Can an NVQ be on the RQF
Yes. NVQ can appear in the title of an RQF qualification where it is aligned to occupational standards and assessed through competence based methods.
What matters most for employers, framework wording or skills
Both matter, but job relevance, competence, and evidence of what you can do are usually the deciding factors. The level helps employers interpret difficulty, the qualification content shows what you have learned.
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