Vocational qualification levels compared, England vs Scotland vs Wales vs Ireland, Level 2 to Level 7
If you have studied in one UK nation (or Ireland) and you are applying for a job or further study elsewhere, the “level” wording can get confusing fast. This guide gives a clear comparison from Level 2 to Level 7, with typical examples and a simple cross map.
Quick answer, why levels differ
England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland use different national frameworks. A level number in one nation does not always match the same number in another nation, especially when you compare Scotland and the Republic of Ireland to the rest of the UK.
Best way to think about it, a level shows the difficulty of learning, not the exact content, not the number of hours, and not automatic entry to a course. Always check the qualification title, awarding body, and credit or size as well as the level.
Which framework each nation uses
England and Northern Ireland
Most vocational qualifications are referenced to the RQF (Regulated Qualifications Framework). You will often see levels from Entry Level to Level 8.
Wales
Wales uses the CQFW (Credit and Qualifications Framework for Wales). For regulated qualifications, the CQFW uses the same level numbering as the RQF, which makes comparison with England and Northern Ireland straightforward.
Scotland
Scotland uses the SCQF (Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework) which runs from Level 1 to Level 12. The numbers are different, so a direct “same number equals same level” comparison does not work.
Republic of Ireland
The Republic of Ireland uses the NFQ (National Framework of Qualifications) which runs from Level 1 to Level 10. Again, the numbering differs from the UK, so you need a mapping table.
Comparison table, Level 2 to Level 7
This table gives a practical cross map for vocational and higher education levels. The examples are typical, but titles can vary by awarding body and sector.
| Reference level (England and Northern Ireland, RQF) | Wales (CQFW) | Scotland (SCQF) | Republic of Ireland (NFQ) | Typical examples (broad) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 2 | Level 2 | SCQF Level 5 | NFQ Level 4 | GCSE grades 9 to 4, Level 2 NVQ, Intermediate Apprenticeship |
| Level 3 | Level 3 | SCQF Level 6 | NFQ Level 5 | A level, Level 3 Diploma, Advanced Apprenticeship, Access to HE Diploma |
| Level 4 | Level 4 | SCQF Level 7 | NFQ Level 6 | HNC, CertHE, Level 4 Diploma, Higher Apprenticeship |
| Level 5 | Level 5 | SCQF Level 8 | NFQ Level 6 | HND, Foundation Degree, DipHE, Level 5 Diploma |
| Level 6 | Level 6 | SCQF Level 9 to 10 | NFQ Level 7 to 8 | Bachelor’s degree (ordinary or honours), Degree Apprenticeship, Graduate Diploma |
| Level 7 | Level 7 | SCQF Level 11 | NFQ Level 9 | Master’s degree, PGDip, PGCert, PGCE, Level 7 Diploma |
Note, the table shows broad comparability of level of challenge, it is not a guarantee of entry, credit transfer, or professional recognition. Always confirm entry requirements with the employer, university, or professional body.
How to use this table correctly
Level comparisons are helpful, but they are only one part of the picture. Here is how to avoid the most common mistakes.
- Check the level and the size, an Award, Certificate, and Diploma can all be the same level, but very different in content and credit.
- Look at the learning outcomes, two Level 3 qualifications can be very different depending on the sector and the unit mix.
- For jobs, focus on competence, regulated status, and relevant experience, not only the level number.
- For university entry, always check the university’s admissions policy, universities decide what they accept, and whether any credit can transfer.
A useful rule, use the framework map to understand difficulty, then use the qualification specification to understand content, then confirm acceptance with the organisation you are applying to.
Common scenarios, moving between nations
I have an England Level 3 vocational qualification, what does that mean in Scotland
In terms of level of challenge, it broadly aligns with SCQF Level 6. When applying for a role, include your qualification title and awarding body, not only the level number.
I have a Scottish qualification, why does the number look higher
SCQF uses a 1 to 12 scale, so Scottish levels often look higher than RQF levels. Use the mapping table rather than comparing the numbers directly.
I have Level 4 or Level 5 in England, what is the Republic of Ireland equivalent
Broadly, both Level 4 and Level 5 align around NFQ Level 6, but acceptance depends on the specific qualification and the receiving organisation. Confirm with the employer or education provider in Ireland.
England and Wales look the same, is that correct
For regulated qualifications, yes, Wales uses CQFW and it aligns closely with RQF level numbering, which makes cross comparison with England and Northern Ireland simpler.
Frequently asked questions
Is Level 5 in Scotland the same as Level 5 in England
No. Scotland uses SCQF and England uses RQF. SCQF Level 5 broadly aligns with RQF Level 2 in terms of challenge, so the same number does not mean the same level.
Does a level comparison guarantee university entry
No. A level comparison helps you understand difficulty, but universities set their own entry requirements. They may also consider subject content, credit volume, and grades.
Why do some RQF levels map to more than one level in Scotland or Ireland
Because frameworks have different scales and structures. Some levels span a range when mapped across borders, especially around degree level study.
What should I put on my CV if I studied in another nation
Use the full qualification title, awarding body, level within that nation’s framework, and the year achieved. If helpful, you can add a short note like “broadly comparable to RQF Level X” but keep it factual.
Need help choosing the right level
If you are planning your next step from Level 2 to Level 7 and you want a clear route that matches your career goal, we can help you compare options and choose the most suitable progression pathway.
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