Education Framework Overview

The UK uses four main qualification frameworks:

• RQF: Regulated Qualifications Framework (England and Northern Ireland)
• CQFW:  Credit and Qualifications Framework for Wales
• SCQF:  Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework
• FHEQ:  Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (England, Wales, Northern Ireland)

Each devolved nation also has its own qualifications office:

• Wales: CQFW
• Scotland: SCQF
• Northern Ireland: CCEA
• Republic of Ireland: QQI
• Europe: EQF

The RQF standardises qualifications in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, helping learners and employers understand the level and size of awards. 

The EQF is a European reference framework that translates national qualifications for cross-country comparability.

While both frameworks classify and standardise qualifications, the RQF is UK-specific, and the EQF serves as a translation tool across Europe. RQF levels are mapped to the EQF to ensure recognition of UK qualifications abroad.

For example, a Level 3 Personal Training course in the UK is comparable to a Level 4 qualification in Ireland.