European Qualifications Framework

Each of the 8 levels is defined by a set of descriptors indicating the learning outcomes relevant to qualifications at that level in any system of qualifications.

In the context of EQF,


 * knowledge is described as theoretical and/or factual


 * skills are described as cognitive (involving the use of logical, intuitive and creative thinking) and practical (involving manual dexterity and the use of methods, materials, tools and instruments).


 * competence is described in terms of responsibility and autonomy.

Level 1

The learning outcomes relevant to Level 1 are:


 * basic general knowledge
 * basic skills required to carry out simple tasks
 * work or study under direct supervision in a structured context

Level 2

The learning outcomes relevant to Level 2 are:


 * basic factual knowledge of a field of work or study
 * basic cognitive and practical skills required to use relevant information in order to * carry out tasks and to solve routine problems using simple rules and tools
 * work or study under supervision with some autonomy

Level 3

The learning outcomes relevant to Level 3 are:


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

Level 4

The learning outcomes relevant to Level 4 are:


 * factual and theoretical knowledge in broad contexts within a field of work or study
 * a range of cognitive and practical skills required to generate solutions to specific problems in a field of work or study
 * exercise self-management within the guidelines of work or study contexts that are usually predictable, but are subject to change
 * supervise the routine work of others, taking some responsibility for the evaluation and improvement of work or study activities

Level 5

The learning outcomes relevant to Level 5 are:


 * comprehensive, specialised, factual and theoretical knowledge within a field of work or study and an awareness of the boundaries of that knowledge
 * a comprehensive range of cognitive and practical skills required to develop creative solutions to abstract problems
 * exercise management and supervision in contexts of work or study activities where there is unpredictable change
 * review and develop performance of self and others

Level 6

The learning outcomes relevant to Level 6 are:


 * advanced knowledge of a field of work or study, involving a critical understanding of theories and principles
 * advanced skills, demonstrating mastery and innovation, required to solve complex and unpredictable problems in a specialised field of work or study
 * manage complex technical or professional activities or projects, taking responsibility for decision-making in unpredictable work or study contexts
 * take responsibility for managing professional development of individuals and groups

Level 7

The learning outcomes relevant to Level 7 are:


 * highly specialised knowledge, some of which is at the forefront of knowledge in a field of work or study, as the basis for original thinking and/or research
 * critical awareness of knowledge issues in a field and at the interface between different fields
 * specialised problem-solving skills required in research and/or innovation in order to develop new knowledge and procedures and to integrate knowledge from different fields
 * manage and transform work or study contexts that are complex, unpredictable and require new strategic approaches
 * take responsibility for contributing to professional knowledge and practice and/or for reviewing the strategic performance of teams

Level 8

The learning outcomes relevant to Level 8 are:


 * knowledge at the most advanced frontier of a field of work or study and at the interface between fields
 * the most advanced and specialised skills and techniques, including synthesis and evaluation, required to solve critical problems in research and/or innovation and to extend and redefine existing knowledge or professional practice
 * demonstrate substantial authority, innovation, autonomy, scholarly and professional integrity and sustained commitment to the development of new ideas or processes at the forefront of work or study contexts including research.