Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) is the national body responsible for maintaining the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) in Ireland. The QQI framework defines 10 progressive levels of learning, from basic foundational skills to doctoral-level research.
For students—especially international learners navigating the Irish education system for the first time—understanding QQI Levels is critical. These levels determine entry requirements, progression pathways, employability outcomes, visa eligibility, and long-term career mobility.
This Students Ireland OS guide explains each QQI level from lowest to highest, what it represents, who it is for, and how learners can progress strategically.
What Are QQI Levels and Why They Matter
QQI Levels form a ladder of learning, where each level builds on the knowledge, skills, and competencies of the previous one.
They matter because:
- Colleges and universities use them for admission decisions
- Employers use them to benchmark qualifications
- Immigration authorities rely on them for study and work permissions
- Students use them to plan progression pathways
Each level is defined by:
- Knowledge (breadth and depth)
- Know-how and skill
- Competence (autonomy, responsibility, and learning capacity)
QQI Levels at a Glance (Low to High)
| QQI Level | Typical Qualification |
|---|---|
| Level 1–3 | Foundation & Basic Certificates |
| Level 4–5 | Entry to Skilled Work / PLC |
| Level 6 | Advanced Certificate / Higher Certificate |
| Level 7 | Ordinary Bachelor Degree |
| Level 8 | Honours Bachelor Degree |
| Level 9 | Master’s Degree / Postgraduate Diploma |
| Level 10 | Doctoral Degree (PhD) |
QQI Level 1 – Foundation Learning
Who it’s for:
Learners beginning formal education or returning after long gaps.
What it represents:
- Basic literacy and numeracy
- Learning how to learn
- Very structured, supported education
Outcomes:
- Ability to follow simple instructions
- Development of confidence and participation
- Preparation for Level 2
Examples:
- Foundation Certificates
- Basic Skills Programmes
Employment relevance:
Minimal; focus is on personal development rather than employment.
QQI Level 2 – Basic Education
Who it’s for:
Learners gaining early independence in learning.
Key characteristics:
- Basic reading, writing, and numeracy
- Simple problem-solving
- Highly supervised learning environment
Progression:
- Entry to Level 3
- Foundation vocational training
QQI Level 3 – Initial Vocational Skills
Who it’s for:
Students preparing for entry-level vocational pathways.
Skills developed:
- Task-based learning
- Routine work skills
- Understanding workplace expectations
Qualifications:
- Level 3 Certificates
Employment:
- Entry-level roles with supervision
- Assistant or trainee positions
QQI Level 4 – Entry to Skilled Learning
Who it’s for:
Learners aiming for structured vocational training.
What changes at Level 4:
- Greater personal responsibility
- Application of skills in real-world contexts
- Introduction to independent learning
Examples:
- Level 4 Certificates
- Pre-apprenticeship programmes
Progression:
- Level 5 PLC courses
- Apprenticeships
QQI Level 5 – Leaving Certificate Equivalent
Who it’s for:
One of the most popular levels for international students entering Ireland.
Why Level 5 is important:
- Considered equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate
- Acts as a bridge to higher education
- Strong focus on employability
Key features:
- Practical, career-oriented learning
- Industry-aligned modules
- Work placement components
Popular Level 5 fields:
- Business
- Healthcare Support
- IT Support
- Hospitality
- Early Childhood Care
Progression:
- Level 6 Advanced Certificate
- In some cases, direct employment
QQI Level 6 – Advanced & Higher Certificates
Who it’s for:
Students seeking specialisation or technical depth without a full degree.
Two main types:
- Advanced Certificate (QQI)
- Higher Certificate (Institutes of Technology)
Skills gained:
- Technical competence
- Independent problem-solving
- Supervisory responsibility
Employment outcomes:
- Technician roles
- Team leaders
- Skilled professionals
Progression:
- Direct entry into Level 7 degree (often Year 2)
QQI Level 7 – Ordinary Bachelor Degree
Who it’s for:
Students pursuing a full undergraduate qualification with applied focus.
Characteristics:
- Strong practical orientation
- Less theoretical depth than Level 8
- Industry-relevant curricula
Duration:
- Typically 3 years
Outcomes:
- Graduate-level employment
- Entry into professional roles
Progression:
- Level 8 Honours Degree (add-on year)
QQI Level 8 – Honours Bachelor Degree
Who it’s for:
Students aiming for professional, managerial, or postgraduate pathways.
Why Level 8 is critical:
- Most globally recognised undergraduate level
- Required for master’s degrees
- High employability across sectors
Skills developed:
- Advanced critical thinking
- Research and analysis
- Independent decision-making
Examples:
- BA (Hons)
- BSc (Hons)
- BEng (Hons)
Employment:
- Professional roles
- Graduate schemes
- Eligibility for Ireland’s Third Level Graduate Programme
QQI Level 9 – Master’s Degree & Postgraduate Study
Who it’s for:
Graduates seeking specialisation, leadership, or academic progression.
Types of Level 9 awards:
- Taught Master’s Degree
- Research Master’s
- Postgraduate Diploma
Key learning outcomes:
- Expert-level knowledge
- Strategic thinking
- Applied or academic research skills
Duration:
- 1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time)
Employment impact:
- Senior professional roles
- Career acceleration
- Pathway to PhD
QQI Level 10 – Doctoral Degree (PhD)
Who it’s for:
Researchers, academics, and industry innovators.
Highest QQI level, representing:
- Original research contribution
- International academic recognition
- Thought leadership in a field
Duration:
- 3–5 years
Outcomes:
- Academic careers
- Advanced R&D roles
- Policy, innovation, and strategy leadership
How Students Can Progress Strategically (Students Ireland OS View)
A non-linear journey is normal in Ireland’s QQI system.
Examples:
- Level 5 → Level 6 → Level 7 → Level 8
- Level 6 → Industry → Level 7 (later)
- Level 8 → Level 9 → Level 10
The framework is designed for lifelong learning, not one-time education.
Final Thoughts: QQI as a System of Opportunity
The QQI framework is not just a ranking system—it is a mobility engine.
For students:
- It removes dead ends
- It values vocational and academic learning equally
- It allows multiple re-entry points into education
For international learners, understanding QQI Levels early means:
- Smarter course choices
- Faster progression
- Better alignment with career and migration goals
Students Ireland OS perspective:
Success in Ireland is less about where you start—and more about how intentionally you move up the QQI ladder.