The framework comprises eight levels. Levels 1-4 award National Vocational Certificates assessed by QABs, Level 5 offers Diplomas, and Levels 6-8 are university degrees accredited by HEC.
The National Vocational Qualifications Framework (NVQF) was introduced in 2013 to define the skills required for a qualification, determine equivalence, provide guidelines for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and assure the quality of training.
National Vocational Certificates assessed by QABs
Diploma awarded by QABs
University degrees accredited by HEC
Each level defines the knowledge, skills and responsibility a learner demonstrates, and the qualification it leads to.
Elementary knowledge of an area of work or study, with safety procedures.
Limited practical skills to carry out single-process tasks and solve routine problems using simple rules and tools.
Work or study under direct supervision with limited autonomy.
Basic knowledge of readily available facts, processes and general theory of an area of work or study.
Basic practical skills to complete tasks and solve problems by selecting and applying standard methods and tools.
Take responsibility for prioritising and completing tasks under indirect supervision, with some autonomy.
Broad theoretical knowledge and interpretation of available information in relevant contexts.
A broad range of well-developed mental and practical skills to plan and complete multi-stage tasks and generate solutions.
Plan and manage own work and/or supervise the routine work of others.
Comprehensive theoretical knowledge within a field of work or study.
A comprehensive range of mental, technical and practical skills to complete complex tasks and devise creative solutions.
Exercise full responsibility for the management and supervision of work or study activities.
Advanced theoretical knowledge with analytical interpretation of an area of work or study.
A specialist level of mental, technical and practical skills to complete variable, complex tasks and develop innovative solutions.
Carry out planning and development of courses of action with complete accountability.
Critical understanding at the frontier of a field of work or study.
Advanced skills to solve unpredictable problems and demonstrate innovation.
Leadership and innovation in work or study contexts that are complex and require new strategic approaches.
Specialised knowledge at the frontier of a field, as the basis for original thinking and research.
Specialised problem-solving skills in research and/or innovation to develop new knowledge and procedures.
Manage and transform work or study contexts that are complex, unpredictable and require new strategic approaches.
Knowledge at the most advanced frontier of a field and at the interface between fields.
The most advanced and specialised skills and techniques, including synthesis and evaluation, to solve critical research problems.
Demonstrate substantial authority, innovation, autonomy, and scholarly and professional integrity.
Advantages for learners, institutions and employers alike.
Learners progress vertically to higher levels or horizontally across different fields.
Qualifications recognised at home and abroad for employment and further education.
Recognition of Prior Learning turns existing experience into formal qualifications.
A standardised, competency-based approach ensures consistent quality across programs.
More choices when selecting training programs aligned with individual goals.
Skills defined with industry so graduates meet real workplace requirements.
See how Competency Based Training (CBT) and NVQF work together to give you industry-relevant skills and nationally recognised qualifications through a learner-centred approach.
Discover how your institution can implement Competency Based Training and align with NVQF standards, with the processes and support available for training providers.
Spin through all eight levels and see what each one means for your career, right on our homepage.
View Interactive Chart