Study Levels Explained
Different qualifications are grouped together into various ‘levels’. This can help you (and employers) to see how qualifications compare and how one type can lead (progress) on to another. Find out about the different levels and where you can get advice on which qualifications are best for you.
Don’t worry if you find the levels confusing, we will discuss this with you during your course information meeting.
Entry Level
Entry level programmes offer an opportunity to learn the basics of a vocational subject.
Entry Requirements: No formal qualifications are required but enthusiasm and an interest in the chosen subject area is essential.
Level 1 - Access
Equivalent to 4 GCSEs at grades 3 -1 (D – F)
Qualifications are usually completed as preparation for progression to Level 2.
Entry Requirements: Minimum of 3 GCSEs at grade 2 (E) and/or equivalent experience, to include English and Maths.
Level 2 - Intermediate
Equivalent to 5 GCSEs at Grades 4 - 9 (C – A*)
BTEC First Diplomas and Level 2 qualifications. Level 2* qualifications give direct entry to craft and junior level employment positions and/or progression to Level 3.
Entry Requirements: Minimum of 4 GCSEs at grade 3 (D), to include English and Maths and/or successful completion of a Foundation Level 1 course and/or equivalent experience.
Level 3 - Advanced
Equivalent to A Levels
BTEC National Diplomas and other Level 3 qualifications. Some Level 3 qualifications (not all) will give sufficient UCAS points to enable direct entry to university or technician/middle level employment and/or progression to Level 4.
Entry Requirements: Minimum 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or higher [specific subjects or additional evidence may be required for particular courses], to include English and Maths and/or successful achievement of Level 2 qualification [Merit in BTEC First Diploma] and/or equivalent experience.
Level 4 - Higher
Equivalent to Degree or Pre-degree
Higher National Certificate, Foundation Degree and first Degree level programmes giving direct entry to professional level employment or training.
Entry Requirements: National Diploma, GCE A Levels, Access to HE Diploma in a related subject.
Level 5 - Higher
Equivalent to Degree or Pre-degree
Higher National Diplomas, Foundation Degree and first Degree level programmes giving direct entry to professional level employment or training.
Entry Requirements : National Diploma, GCE A Levels, Access to HE Diploma in a related subject.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are an excellent way of gaining qualifications and workplace experience. As an employee, you can earn as you learn and you gain practical skills from the workplace.
As an apprentice you will work for an employer whilst studying for a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ). These nationally recognised qualifications have been developed by leading businesses and are designed by industry.
14-16 year olds
If you are home educated and would like to undertake some study at The Isle of Wight College, please contact Louise Tatton, Lead Officer for Elective Home Education, at the Isle of Wight Council (Email: louise.tatton@iow.gov.uk).