1. What is the SCQF?
The SCQF is the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework. It brings together all the mainstream Scottish qualifications gained at school, college, university, in the workplace and in the community. Each qualification has credit points, which show how much learning has been achieved, and a level, which shows how challenging the learning is. You can use the Interactive Framework to compare qualifications and it can help you plan your learning journey. The SCQF Partnership is the custodian of the SCQF.
2. Do you have a record of my qualifications?
We do not keep records of the qualifications a person achieves. To access a record of your qualifications, please contact the awarding body, such as Qualifications Scotland (formerly SQA).
3. How do I find out the SCQF level of my qualifications?
You can check the Interactive Framework on the SCQF website, which lists qualifications such as Nationals, Highers, HNCs, HNDs, degrees, apprenticeships and more. If you can’t find your qualifications there, try the SCQF Register, a searchable database of over 10,000 qualifications.
4. How can I get my learning programme on the SCQF?
If your organisation has a learning programme that’s not already on the SCQF, you can apply for it to be credit rated by an approved credit rating body, such as a university or college. You can find out more at Get Your Programme on the SCQF.
5. Are my qualifications enough to get into teaching?
Entry requirements for teacher training are set by the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS). You’ll need to check their website to see if your qualifications meet the requirements.
6. Can I compare qualifications across the UK?
Yes – the SCQF can be compared with other frameworks in the UK, including the:
- Regulated Qualifications Framework for England and Northern Ireland (RQF)
- Credit and Qualifications Framework for Wales (CQFW)
- National Framework of Qualifications for Ireland (NFQ)
- Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ)
The Qualifications Can Cross Boundaries guide can help you understand how they align. For example, if you have a Higher at SCQF level 6, that’s comparable to an A Level at RQF level 3.
7. Can you provide an equivalency certificate?
No – the SCQF Partnership does not issue certificates of equivalency. If you need formal recognition of a qualification for work, study or immigration purposes, you will need to contact UK ENIC, the UK’s agency for international qualifications recognition. There is a cost associated with this service.
8. What’s my SCQF level?
You can use our handy guide – Know Your SCQF Level – which explains how to check your SCQF level based on your qualifications and experience.
9. Can I use Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to enter a course if I don’t meet the entry requirements?
Yes – many colleges, universities, and training providers use RPL to grant course entry, advanced entry, or module exemption if learners can show that their previous experience or qualifications is comparable to the entry requirements. We provide guidance on RPL at our dedicated RPL Hub, however you will need to contact the institution directly to find out if they accept RPL claims.
10. What are my military qualifications equal to?
If you want to compare your qualifications to mainstream Scottish qualifications, you can use the Qualifications Can Cross Boundaries guide. Military qualifications are in the yellow Regulated Qualifications Framework(RQF) column. You can compare these to the blue SCQF column. For example, Functional Skills in Maths at RQF level 2 is comparable to an SCQF level 5. Visit Service Leavers & Veterans for more support in understanding your qualifications.
Do you have a question that is not featured above? Explore our in-depth FAQ at SCQF Partnership FAQs. You can also email info@scqf.org.uk