What is QCF?

The Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) is a credit transfer system which replaced the original National Qualification Framework (NQF). It recognises qualifications and units by awarding credits. And since each unit has a credit value and the credits can be transferred, the system gives the learners the ability to get qualifications at their own pace. The QCF is jointly regulated by the England’s regulator Ofqual, Wales’ DCELLS and Northern Ireland’s CCEA.

What is RQF?

QCF (Qualification and Credit Framework) has now closed and Ofqual have introduced one framework for all qualifications from GCSE to vocational. QCF has been replaced by the RQF (Regulated Qualification Framework). All qualifications are now built on RQF and are subject to these conditions. The original qualifications that existed prior to RQF being created, will still currently be under the QCF framework until 31st December 2017. After 31st December 2017 all qualifications will transfer to RQF.

What does it all mean?

Not much difference for you in respect of credits, you will still gain a similar amount of credits on the national framework, it is just the way that the framework has been designed and regulated, so nothing that you need to worry about yourself. You just need to rest assured that your qualification is being regulated by Ofqual.