European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 3

Third level of the European reference tool for the description and comparison of qualifications developed at national, international or sectoral level. The learning outcomes relevant to EQF level 3 are:

  • knowledge: knowledge of facts, principles, processes and general concepts, in a field of work or study;
  • skills: a range of cognitive and practical skills required to accomplish tasks and solve problems by selecting and applying basic methods, tools, materials and information;
  • responsibility and autonomy:
    • take responsibility for completion of tasks in work or study;
    • adapt own behaviour to circumstances in solving problems.
Comment

Examples of qualifications at EQF level 3:

  • United Kingdom:
    • England and Northern Ireland: Technical/vocational qualifications level 2, GCSEs at grade A–C and, from 2017, grade 4–9 (England), Functional skills level 2 (England), Essential skills qualifications (Northern Ireland);
    • Scotland: National 5 awards, Skills for work national 5, National certificate, National progression award, Modern apprenticeship (SVQ);
    • Wales: Welsh Baccalaureate National, Vocational Qualifications, Essential Skills, General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE, grades A to C), apprenticeships;
  • Ireland: Level 4 certificate (e.g. Level 4 certificate in engineering skills), Leaving certificate.
Source

Based on Council of the European Union, 2017; UNESCO, 2019.

Related term(s)
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF)
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 1
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 2
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 4
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 5
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 6
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 7
European qualifications framework for lifelong learning (EQF) – Level 8
lower secondary education (ISCED level 2 – EQF level 3)
secondary education (ISCED levels 2 and 3 – EQF levels 2 to 4)
upper secondary education (ISCED level 3 – EQF levels 3 and 4)