Understanding the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) in Ireland

The National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) is Ireland’s official system for describing and comparing qualifications. It provides a transparent structure that helps learners, employers, and education providers understand the level and value of different qualifications, both nationally and internationally.

What Is the NFQ?

The NFQ is a ten-level system that classifies all Irish qualifications based on standards of knowledge, skill, and competence. Each level represents what a learner is expected to know, understand, and be able to do after completing a particular qualification.

• Lower levels (1–4) represent basic learning achievements.
• Middle levels (5–7) represent further and higher education awards.
• Higher levels (8–10) represent advanced qualifications such as degrees, master’s, and doctorates.

Key NFQ Levels at a Glance

How the NFQ Helps Students

The NFQ acts like an educational ladder, allowing students to progress from one level to another. It supports flexible learning pathways — whether you begin with a school qualification, a Post-Leaving Certificate (PLC), or a degree.

Progression from the Leaving Certificate

The Leaving Certificate is positioned at NFQ Level 5, while the Leaving Certificate Applied sits at Level 4. From the Leaving Certificate, students can apply for college and university courses at Levels 5–8 through the CAO system.

To enter postgraduate study (Levels 9 and 10), students must hold a Level 8 qualification such as an Honours Bachelor Degree.

Moving from Level 5 to Higher Education

Students who complete a QQI Level 5 qualification (previously FETAC) can progress to higher education through the Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS).

What Is the Higher Education Links Scheme?

This scheme enables Level 5 graduates to apply for CAO courses, including Level 8 degrees. Applications are made via the CAO (by February 1st each year).

• Over 600 CAO courses currently accept QQI Level 5 qualifications.
• Some programmes may require specific subjects or modules.
• Admission is competitive, and a place is not guaranteed, but QQI applicants compete based on their QQI scores, not Leaving Cert points.

Applying for College with a Level 5 Qualification

Students with a Level 5 qualification can apply in two main ways:

1. Through the CAO system, where QQI results are converted to a points score.
2. For ‘linked’ courses, where colleges reserve a number of places specifically for QQI applicants.

This flexible approach means learners have multiple routes into higher education, regardless of how they began.

Progression from Level 6 and Level 7 to Level 8

Students entering higher education at Level 6 (Higher Certificate) can often stay in the same institution to complete:

• A Level 7 “add-on” year, followed by
• A Level 8 Honours Degree “add-on” year.

This typically takes four years, similar to starting directly on a Level 8 course. Students may need to achieve certain grades to qualify for the add-on stages.

The same applies to students beginning at Level 7, who can often progress to Level 8 after an additional year of study.

Understanding Course Codes in the CAO Handbook

• DG – Ordinary Degree (Level 7)
• HD – Honours Degree (Level 8)
• HC+DG+HD – Higher Certificate with options to progress to both Ordinary and Honours Degrees

Always check the CAO handbook or contact the institution for details on specific progression options.

Why the NFQ Matters

The NFQ ensures that all qualifications in Ireland are:

• Quality-assured and internationally recognised
• Easily comparable across education sectors and countries
• Flexible, supporting lifelong learning and career development

Whether you are a school leaver, adult learner, or international student, understanding the NFQ helps you make informed decisions about your education and career pathway.

Learn More About the NFQ

The NFQ diagram is shown below and can be explored further with more detailed qualification information on the NFQ website, which provides an interactive fan diagram showing all levels, award types, and awarding bodies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does NFQ mean?

NFQ stands for National Framework of Qualifications, a system that classifies all education awards in Ireland from basic to doctoral level.

What NFQ level is the Leaving Certificate?

The traditional Leaving Certificate is Level 5, while the Leaving Certificate Applied is Level 4.

What is a QQI Level 5 qualification equivalent to?

A QQI Level 5 qualification is equivalent to the Leaving Certificate and can be used to progress to Level 6–8 courses in higher education.

Can I go to university with a QQI Level 5?

Yes. Through the Higher Education Links Scheme, students with a QQI Level 5 qualification can apply for CAO courses, including Level 8 degrees.

How long does it take to reach Level 8 from Level 6?

Usually about four years, the same duration as most Honours Bachelor Degrees.