Understanding the comparison between the UK’s RQF and SA’s NQF (National Qualification Framework) is essential for South Africans looking to work or further their studies in the UK. Below is a comparative table outlining the equivalence between the two systems:
| RQF Level (UK) | UK Qualification Level | NQF Level (SA) | SA Qualification Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | Doctoral degree | 10 | Doctoral degree |
| 7 | Masters degree / Postgraduate Diploma / Post Graduate Certificate | 9 | Masters Degree |
| 6 | Bachelor degree / Bachelor Honours degree / Graduate Diplomas / Graduate Certificates | 8 | Bachelors Honours Degree / Postgraduate Diploma / Advanced Bachelors degree |
| 6 | Bachelor degree / Bachelor Honours degree / Graduate Diplomas / Graduate Certificates | 7 | Bachelor degree / Advanced Diploma |
| 5 | Foundation Degrees / Diplomas of Higher Education / Higher National Diploma | 6 | Diploma / Advanced Certificate in Education / Professional Diploma in Education |
| 4 | Higher National Certificates / Certificates of Higher Education | 6 | Advanced Certificates |
| 3 | Level 3 Awards / GCE AS and A Levels | 5 | Higher National Certificate |
| 2 | Technical or Vocational Qualifications Level 2 / GCSE at grade A B C | 4 | National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4 (Matric) / National Senior Certificate |
| 2 | Technical or Vocational Qualifications Level 2 / GCSE at grade A B C | 3 | National Certificate (Vocational) Level 3 / Intermediate Certificate |
| 1 | Technical or Vocational Qualifications Level 2 / GCSE at grade D E F G | 2 | National Certificate (Vocational) Level 2 / Elementary Certificate |
| – | Entry Level Certificates (1 – 3) | 1 | National Certificate (Vocational) Level 1 / General Certificate |
References:
- Information relating to the UK’s RQF taken from here.
- Information relating to the SA’s NQF taken from here.
- A combined perspective was taken from here.
Note: The hyperlinks in the references section should link to the respective sources.
This table provides an at-a-glance view of the qualification levels in both the UK and South Africa, assisting job seekers in better understanding and positioning their academic and professional backgrounds in the UK job market.
Qualification Attestation for Visa Purposes
For South Africans intending to work, study, or migrate to the UK, it’s crucial to have your qualifications recognized to meet the visa requirements. One vital step in this process is getting your qualifications attested.
ECCTIS’s Visas and Nationality Application Form
ECCTIS (previously known as UK NARIC) is the designated UK national agency for the recognition and comparison of international qualifications and skills. They provide services for individuals to recognize their academic and professional qualifications.
To assist South Africans in this process, ECCTIS offers a specific Visas and Nationality application form. By using this form, South Africans can get their qualifications assessed and attested, which is a requirement for various UK visa categories.
🔗 Access the Visas and Nationality application form here
Steps to follow:
- Visit the link above to access the application form.
- Fill out the form with all the necessary details about your qualifications.
- Submit the form along with copies of your qualifications.
- ECCTIS will then assess your qualifications and provide a statement of comparability, which can be used for visa purposes.
Ensure to check the requirements thoroughly and provide all necessary documents to avoid any delays in the process.
This guidance helps South Africans navigate the qualification attestation process, ensuring they meet all the necessary requirements for their UK visa applications.