Guides

UK Qualification Levels Explained: RQF Levels 1–8

The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is the UK system for comparing qualification levels. Use this guide to understand what each level means and find UKSM programmes that match your career goals.

RQF Level 1 — Foundation skills

What it equates to: GCSE grades D–G (legacy) / Entry-level qualifications
Typical duration: Typically 3–6 months part-time online
Who it suits: Learners building confidence, basic workplace skills, or preparing for Level 2 study.

UKSM programmes at this level

Browse related programmes in our course catalogue.

RQF Level 2 — First qualifications

What it equates to: GCSE grades A*–C (legacy) / First certificates
Typical duration: Typically 6–12 months online
Who it suits: School leavers, career changers, and support workers entering health, business, or customer service roles.

UKSM programmes at this level

RQF Level 3 — Advanced certificates & diplomas

What it equates to: A-level standard / Advanced apprenticeships
Typical duration: Typically 9–18 months online
Who it suits: Supervisors, team leaders, and learners progressing toward a degree or Level 4 diploma.

UKSM programmes at this level

RQF Level 4 — Certificate of higher education standard

What it equates to: First year of a bachelor’s degree / HNC standard
Typical duration: Typically 12–18 months online
Who it suits: Experienced practitioners moving into management, quality assurance, or specialist professional roles.

UKSM programmes at this level

RQF Level 5 — Diploma of higher education standard

What it equates to: Foundation degree / HND standard
Typical duration: Typically 12–24 months online
Who it suits: Middle managers, service leaders, and professionals seeking degree-level knowledge without a full bachelor’s yet.

UKSM programmes at this level

RQF Level 6 — Bachelor’s degree standard

What it equates to: BA (Hons) / BSc (Hons) / BEng (Hons) / Graduate diploma
Typical duration: Typically 18–36 months online
Who it suits: Learners seeking an undergraduate degree or graduate-level diploma for senior professional roles.

UKSM programmes at this level

RQF Level 7 — Master’s degree standard

What it equates to: Master’s degree / MBA / Postgraduate diploma
Typical duration: Typically 12–24 months online
Who it suits: Senior managers, consultants, and specialists pursuing MBA, MSc, or postgraduate diploma credentials.

UKSM programmes at this level

RQF Level 8 — Doctoral / strategic leadership standard

What it equates to: Doctorate / senior strategic leadership qualifications
Typical duration: Typically 12–24 months online (diploma pathways)
Who it suits: Executive leaders, board-level professionals, and strategic decision-makers.

UKSM programmes at this level

Level 8 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership