HNC Equivalent Level Explained
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What Level is a HNC Equivalent to?

A Higher National Certificate (HNC) is equivalent to the second year of a university degree. It is a Level 4 qualification in the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) and a Level 5 qualification in the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Here is a comparison of the levels of qualifications:

Qualification Level
HNC Level 4 (SCQF) / Level 5 (RQF)
1st Year University Degree Level 4 (SCQF) / Level 4 (RQF)
2nd Year University Degree Level 5 (SCQF) / Level 5 (RQF)
3rd Year University Degree Level 6 (SCQF) / Level 6 (RQF)

Therefore, completing an HNC is a great way to progress academically and can provide a pathway to further study at university or into employment in a specific field.

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Discover the equivalent level of a Higher National Certificate (HNC) and broaden your understanding of academic qualifications.
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