About Levels

You will often come across information about courses offered at a particular level - for example NVQ Level 1. But what do these levels mean? The table below shows how each qualification compares with others. The rest of the page tells you what you need to make progress between levels.

Entry Level

No formal qualifications are normally needed to take courses at this level. Example qualifications include Pre-vocational Certificates in Life, Employment and Learning Skills. You could progress to E2E, employment, work based learning or further education/training at Level 1 or Level 2.

Level 1

Some GCSEs and/or a clear interest in the course subject would be useful if you want to take a Level 1 course. You could progress to employment or further training/education at Level 2.

Level 2

Four GCSEs at grade G or above and/or a clear interest in the chosen subject would be useful if you want to take a Level 2 course. Examples of Level 2 courses and programmes include BTEC First Diploma, NVQ Level or an Apprenticeship.

Level 2 courses could lead you to employment, an Advanced Apprenticeship, NVQ Level 3, or further education at Sixth Form School/College.

Level 3

At least 4 GCSEs at grade C or above (preferably including Maths and English) would be useful if you want to take a Level 3 course. Level 3 courses and programmes include A levels (AS/A2), BTEC National Diploma/Certificate, Advanced Apprenticeship and NVQ 3. You could go on to Higher Education (university/college), employment or further training at Level 4.