HQF Levels

Learning Outcomes

Level Knowledge Skills Competence
1 Has acquired basic general knowledge related to the working environment that may serve as input into lifelong learning paths Can apply basic knowledge and perform a specific range of simple tasks; has basic and recurring social skills. Can perform simple and repetitive tasks by applying basic knowledge and skills under direct supervision in a structured
2 Has acquired basic general knowledge related to a field of work or study that allow them to understand the procedures for implementing basic tasks and instructions Can apply basic knowledge and perform a variety of complex tasks in a field of work or study; has communication skills. Can perform tasks in a specific field of work or study under limited supervision and/or with some autonomy in a structured context.
3 Has acquired basic general knowledge that allows them to understand the relationship of theoretical knowledge and information with a field of work or study; understands the components and procedures appropriate to complex tasks and instructions. Can demonstrate broad cognitive and practical skill in successful execution of complex tasks both in intimate and non-intimate contexts; has communication skills and problem-solving capabilities through selecting and applying basic methodologies, tools, materials and information. Can perform tasks autonomously in a particular field of work or study; has the ability to adjust their behavior depending on the needs of problem solving; takes initiatives in specified fields of work or study and acts under supervision in implementing emergency procedures of quality control.
4 Has acquired a wide range of theoretical knowledge and intelligence analysis allowing them to understand the field of work or study and apply data and processes in a general context. Can use fluently the knowledge and ability to apply a range of techniques and specialized skills in a field of work or study; has communication skills at the level of theoretical and technical information and can find solutions to specific problems in a field of work or study. May perform independently qualitative and quantitative tasks in a specific field of work or study that requires professional competence; has the ability to oversee the quality and quantity of work of other people with responsibility and autonomy; demonstrates an increased level of key competences that can serve as the basis for studying higher education.
5 Demonstrates comprehensive, specialized, factual and theoretical knowledge within a field of work or study and is aware of the limits of knowledge. Holds a wide range of cognitive and practical skills required to find creative solutions to abstract problems. Can manage and supervise, in the context of a specific task or learning process, in which unforeseen changes can occur; can revise and develop both their personal performance and that of others.
6 Has advanced knowledge of a field of work or study, involving critical understanding of theories and principles. Possesses advanced skills and has the ability to demonstrate the virtuosity and innovation required to solve complex and unpredictable problems in a specialized field of work or study. Can manage complex technical or professional activities or projects, taking responsibility for decision-making in unpredictable work or study contexts; can assume responsibility for managing the professional development of individuals and groups.
7 Has highly specialized knowledge, some of which is cutting- edge knowledge in a field of work or study and which is the basis for original thinking; has a critical awareness of knowledge issues in a field and at the interface of different fields. Holds specialized problem-solving skills required in research and/or innovation in order to develop new knowledge and procedures and to integrate knowledge from different fields. Can manage and transform work or study contexts that are complex, unpredictable and require new strategic approaches; can take responsibility for contributing to professional knowledge and practices and/or for the performance evaluation of strategy groups.
8 Has knowledge at the most advanced levels of a field of work or study and at the interface with other fields. Has acquired very advanced and specialized skills and techniques, including synthesis and evaluation, required to solve critical problems in research and/or innovation for enlarging and redefining existing knowledge or existing professional practice. Demonstrate substantial authority, innovation, autonomy, scholarly and professional integrity and sustained commitment to the development of new ideas or processes at the forefront of work or study contexts including research.