RQF level alignment
The Regulated Qualifications Framework runs from Entry Level to Level 8. Level 3 is A level equivalent; Level 7 is masters equivalent.
Tools & calculators
Compare UK qualifications side by side
See how the Access to HE Diploma, A levels, BTEC Extended Diploma, GCSEs and CMI levels compare on RQF level, duration, UCAS Tariff and accepted entry routes.
- Six UK qualification types · in one table
- RQF level + UCAS points · current 2024-2026 tariff
- Filterable by sector and goal
Why this matters
Picking the right qualification is the single biggest decision an adult learner makes. The comparison is built around the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) so you can see exactly how each route stacks up.
Three things the comparison shows
Each column is calibrated to the live UK qualifications landscape.
Duration and study load
Most Lift College courses are designed for around 10 hours of study per week, but each qualification has a different total hours requirement.
UCAS Tariff and entry routes
Where the qualification can take you next — direct university entry, foundation route, or further professional study.
Click any column to see how that qualification works in detail.
RQF Level 3
Access to HE Diploma
- Duration
- ~1 year
- UCAS points
- 144 (Distinction)
- Awarding bodies
- OCN London, AQA, others
- Accepted by
- 140+ UK universities for degree entry
- Best for
- Adults entering university without A levels
RQF Level 3
A levels
- Duration
- ~1-2 years
- UCAS points
- 56 per A*
- Awarding bodies
- AQA, Pearson Edexcel, OCR
- Accepted by
- All UK universities
- Best for
- Younger adults retaking or topping up grades
RQF Level 3
BTEC Extended Diploma
- Duration
- ~2 years
- UCAS points
- 168 (D*D*D*)
- Awarding bodies
- Pearson
- Accepted by
- Most UK universities (vocational subjects)
- Best for
- Vocationally focused learners
RQF Level 1-2
GCSEs
- Duration
- 6-12 months
- UCAS points
- n/a
- Awarding bodies
- AQA, Pearson Edexcel, OCR
- Accepted by
- Entry to A level, BTEC, employment
- Best for
- Retaking maths or English (often required by employers)
RQF Level 5
CMI Level 5
- Duration
- ~9 months
- UCAS points
- n/a (post-school)
- Awarding bodies
- Chartered Management Institute
- Accepted by
- Middle-manager roles, top-up to CMI Level 7
- Best for
- Existing managers ready for senior roles
RQF Level 7
CMI Level 7
- Duration
- ~12 months
- UCAS points
- n/a (masters equivalent)
- Awarding bodies
- Chartered Management Institute
- Accepted by
- Senior management, director, Chartered Manager status
- Best for
- Senior managers and consultants
Frequently asked questions
Is the Access to HE Diploma equivalent to A levels?
Yes. Both sit at RQF Level 3. Three A* A levels equal 168 UCAS points; a full-Distinction Access to HE Diploma equals 144 UCAS points. Source: UCAS Tariff Tables 2024-2026.
Can I study a CMI Level 5 without a degree?
Yes. CMI qualifications do not require a degree. They are designed for working managers and assessed through workplace assignments, not exams.
Which qualification gives the most flexibility?
For adults heading to university, the Access to HE Diploma is the most widely accepted Level 3 route. For career progression in management, CMI qualifications are the most flexible because each level stands on its own.
Once you have shortlisted
Three reads to help you make the call.
Speak to an adviser
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