Skip to content Accesskeys Newsroom

Entry level qualifications

If you want to gain a qualification that is recognised across the UK, but don't feel ready for GCSEs or equivalent qualifications, an Entry Level Certificate could be for you. And they're available in a wide range of subjects.

What are they?

Entry level qualifications can help you build skills, increase your knowledge and boost your confidence. They are known as 'certificates' or 'awards', and are open to anyone interested in gaining a recognised qualification and there are no entry requirements.

They may be suitable if you are not yet ready to take qualifications in one or more area of learning at level 1 of the National Qualifications Framework. They could also be appropriate if you don't have traditional qualifications, or if you've been away from learning for a long time. You could also choose to take one to explore a subject that interests you.

What subjects can you take?

There are over 100 Entry Level Certificates to choose from. These include:

  • English, science and maths and other traditional subjects
  • literacy, numeracy, life skills and other skills
  • hairdressing or office practice and other specific vocational subjects that tell you about a particular area of work
  • general vocational subjects that give you a broad introduction to the world of work

When and where you can take them?

You can study Entry Level Certificates at a pace that suits you. If you opt for certificates in National Curriculum subjects at school, they usually take one or two years to complete in Years 11 or 12 (ages 14 to 16).

Entry level qualifications are available in a number of learning settings and are often studied in further education colleges or school. They can, however, also be available in:

  • the workplace
  • community settings through voluntary work
  • prisons and young offenders' institutions
  • residential or daycare settings

How are you assessed?

Entry level qualifications are made up of a number of separately assessed units. This means that your achievements are recognised at every step, as you complete each unit. You are assessed on a combination of tests, assignments and tasks which can be written, oral or practical.

You will also produce a portfolio that shows evidence of what you have achieved. It can contain things like witness statements which are a written or oral account of your performance, video, audio and photographs that are assessed by your teachers.

Different subjects and courses will vary in structure, content and the number of units. When you complete all the units, you get the full certificate.

Study at a level to suit you

You can take entry level qualifications at three different levels:

  • entry 1
  • entry 2
  • entry 3

These levels are broadly the same as the National Curriculum levels 1, 2 and 3.'Entry level' is the first level on the National Qualifications Framework. The framework shows how different types of qualifications compare, in terms of the demands they place on learners.

Retakes

You can choose to retake individual units at any time.

Appeals

If you're not happy with your result in a particular unit, speak to your teacher. If you're still not satisfied, you can contact the organisation which is offering the certificate you are taking.

Where can they take you?

You can progress from one entry level to the next. At entry 3, the qualifications are designed to help you move on to related qualifications at level 1 of the National Qualifications Framework, such as:

  • GCSEs
  • Key Skills
  • Skills for Life
  • NVQs
  • BTEC Introductory or Level 1 BTEC Awards, Certificates or Diplomas

They can also lead to work-based learning, like an apprenticeship, or straight to a job.

Help and advice

Speak to your teacher or contact your local FE college about the range of entry level qualifications on offer. You can also contact your local careers adviser or the Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment.