Level 2 Qualifications

What is a Level 2 Qualification and how does it compare?
We can compare level two qualifications by grouping together the different types of UK qualifications available currently with those also issued in the past.
The level 2 qualification list includes O level (grade A, B or C), CSE (grade 1), GCSE (grade A, B or C), intermediate apprenticeship, level 2 award, level 2 certificate, level 2 diploma, level 2 ESOL, level 2 essential skills, level 2 functional skills, level 2 national certificate. level 2 national diploma, level 2 NVQ, music grades 4 and 5 and the BTEC Firsts. The Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification Intermediate is also graded level 2.

Level 2 Qualifications include:
Basic factual knowledge of a field of work or study
CSE – grade 1
GCSE – grade A*, A, B or C
Intermediate apprenticeship
BTEC Firsts
Level 2 award
Level 2 certificate
Level 2 diploma
Level 2 ESOL
Level 2 essential skills
Level 2 functional skills
Level 2 national certificate
Level 2 national diploma
Level 2 NVQ
Music grades 4 and 5
O level – grade A, B or C

In Scotland, Education levels are different with level 2 equivalent to the Scottish level 5. Scottish qualifications at this level include National 5, Intermediate 2, Modern Apprenticeship, SVQ 2, NPA, National Certificate.

In the Republic of Ireland level 2 qualifications are equivalent to Level 4 Certificate and the Leaving Certificate.

In mainland Europe, level 2 qualifications are equivalent to European Qualifications Framework Level 3.