What are NVQs?

NVQs are National Vocational Qualifications in England and Wales and SVQs are Scottish Vocational Qualifications. They are both gained through assessment of performance and knowledge at work and college. They are a valuable alternative to academic qualifications such as A- levels.

There are 5 levels of NVQs in England and Wales:

Academic equivalents of NVQ levels in England and Wales

• NVQ 1 - foundation GNVQ or GCSE level (grade D-G)
• NVQ 2 - intermediate GNVQ or GCSE level (grade A-C)
• NVQ 3 - Advanced Vocational Certificate of Education (AVCE), A- level or AS level
• NVQ 4 - degree level
• NVQ 5 - postgraduate level

SVQs in Scotland:

• SVQ and equivalent level
• SVQ 2 - Intermediate 2/Credit standard
• grade
• SVQ 3 - Higher grade
• SVQ 4 - HND/Diploma