What is the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ)?
The FHEQ is the national qualifications framework for higher education in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. FHEQ Level 5 is equivalent to the second year of an undergraduate degree.
FHEQ Level 5 reflects a significant depth of knowledge, analytical thinking, and professional application — equivalent to the second year of an undergraduate degree.
International framework alignments
- Level 5 - England (RQF), Wales (CQFW), Northern Ireland
- Level 8 - Scotland (SCQF)
- Level 5 - European Qualifications Framework (EQF)
- Level 6 - Ireland (NFQ)
These alignments reflect framework-level comparability and do not imply regulatory status or formal equivalence in any jurisdiction.