RQF Levels and Qualification Framework
We are an awarding body that develops and delivers high-quality qualifications. While our courses are designed to align with the learning outcomes and level of demand specified by the UK's Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), it is important for learners to understand their regulatory status.
Our awarding body and the qualifications we offer are not regulated by Ofqual (The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) or any other UK qualifications regulator. This means our certificates are not 'accredited qualifications' in the formal sense that they appear on the official Register of Regulated Qualifications.
We use the RQF as a benchmarking tool to ensure our courses meet nationally recognised standards of difficulty and demand, providing a clear indication of the academic level of achievement.
Understanding RQF Alignment
Our courses are aligned with the RQF's eight levels (Entry Level to Level 7), which indicate the complexity of the subject matter.
We use the RQF principle of credits, where one credit broadly represents 10 hours of Total Qualification Time (TQT), to indicate the notional size of our courses.
Award: 1 to 12 credits.
Certificate: 13 to 36 credits.
Diploma: 37 or more credits (a full Level 4 Diploma, for example, typically aligns with 120 credits).
Qualification Levels (Alignment)
Qualifications aligned at the same level are comparable in terms of the intellectual demand, but our certificates are issued by our awarding body and not a UK regulator.
Foundational knowledge and basic skills.
Introduction to a subject, building basic knowledge and skills.
In-depth knowledge of a subject, applying understanding to practical situations.
Specialised knowledge and skills. Equivalent to A-level standard.
First year of higher education. A Diploma at this level typically consists of 120 credits.
Deeper specialisation, requiring independent judgement and critical analysis. Typically 120 credits.
Equivalent to a full Bachelor's degree. Involves high-level analysis and professional skills.
Advanced learning, requiring critical thinking and research skills.
Ready to Start Your Educational Journey?
Explore our programs aligned with RQF levels and find the perfect qualification for your career goals.