The EQF was established as a common European tool for comparing national qualifications systems and frameworks, and for ensuring their transparency.
EU countries developed national qualifications frameworks (NQFs) to bring together qualifications from different sub-systems, learning contexts, and types of institutions into a single unified structure.
Modern NQFs are built on a learning outcomes-based approach. This means qualifications are described in terms of what a person:
knows;
understands;
is able to do upon completion of learning.
Learning outcomes form the foundation for describing both NQF and EQF levels.
Through the EQF, countries are able to:
compare their NQF levels with the EQF;
ensure the clarity and readability of qualifications;
support the mobility of citizens;
promote lifelong learning.
A key step in this process is referencing — the procedure through which countries align their NQF levels with those of the EQF. Following this, countries may indicate the EQF level on educational documents and integrate their qualifications registers into European digital platforms via Europass.
Qualifications frameworks based on learning outcomes contribute to:
accessibility of education;
inclusion;
professional development;
mobility;
recognition of qualifications across different countries.
