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Qualifications / Levels 3–8

Find the right level for your next step.

Compare common qualification examples in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Use this guide to prepare questions about entry, the award and where it could take you.

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Qualification examples

Compare Levels 3–8.

Qualifications at the same level can differ in subject, workload, purpose and award type. The examples below describe the level system.

  1. Level 3

    Preparation for higher study

    Examples include A levels, Access to Higher Education diplomas and Level 3 diplomas.

  2. Level 4

    Early higher education

    Examples include a Higher National Certificate, a Certificate of Higher Education and Level 4 diplomas.

  3. Level 5

    Further higher education

    Examples include a foundation degree, a Higher National Diploma and Level 5 diplomas.

  4. Level 6

    Bachelor’s-level study

    Examples include an honours bachelor’s degree, a graduate diploma and Level 6 diplomas.

  5. Level 7

    Master’s-level study

    Examples include a master’s degree, a postgraduate diploma and Level 7 diplomas.

  6. Level 8

    Doctoral-level study

    Examples include a doctorate such as a PhD and Level 8 diplomas.

See the full GOV.UK level guide

Before you apply

Check what the level refers to.

Award and progression

Ask for the exact award title, awarding organisation and reference number where applicable. Ask your receiving institution to confirm entry or credit in writing.

Find a regulated qualification

Scottish qualifications

Scotland uses the separate, 12-level Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework. Check the framework named for the specific award.

See the Scottish framework

Study hours and English levels

The 60- and 120-hour pathways describe workload. CEFR A1–C2 describes language proficiency. Check qualification level, hours and language requirements separately.

Explore English exams

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