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The education system in Ireland is structured to overcome the barriers coming in the way of overall development of students. The institutes and universities in Ireland have been working to promote Ireland as one of the top study destinations for international students. They have a goal to provide top-quality education at a comparatively low cost.

Following are some of the highlights of the Irish education system:

• According to the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2014, Ireland’s higher education system is ranked in the top 20 globally.
• Education in the country is mandatory for children from the ages of 6 to 16.
• Ireland in 2018 invested a total of $9921 per student in primary to tertiary institutions.
• The admission intakes in Ireland are similar to other European countries.

Suggested: Cost of Studying in Ireland

Next, let’s explore…

Let us learn in detail about the Irish National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), its purpose, and how it benefits learners. Learning about NFQ levels will help you better understand the qualifications and training systems in Ireland. NFQ is of immense significance as it has helped make the education system in Ireland one of the best.

What is the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)?

The Irish National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) was established in the year 2003. It is a 10-Level single national identity developed by the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland to measure all learning achievements and to describe levels of educational qualifications in Ireland. The Irish NFQ system is compatible with the ENIC-NARIC (European Network of Information Centres/National Academic Recognition Information Centres) that facilitates academic qualifications recognition throughout Europe and in nations like the USA, New Zealand, Canada, and Australia.

Why is NFQ Important for International Students?

International students are advised to assess their qualifications using the Irish NFQ (National Framework Qualifications) prior to applying for a course in Ireland. It helps them compare and contrast qualifications easily to plan their studies, training, and progress in their career. NFQ helps international students choose the right course. The information about the awards given after a course completion can help you ascertain if the course meets your need for education.

A quick glimpse of higher NFQ levels for degree programs:

Next, let’s check the glimpse of higher NFQ levels for degree programs:

The NFQ is also used to compare Irish qualifications with foreign qualifications. Thus, international students traveling to Ireland with qualifications gained abroad can use the NFQ to get these qualifications recognized.

NFQ Levels

Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) has the responsibility to maintain and develop the framework. National Framework of Qualifications acts as a benchmark for graduate courses standard offered by the universities and Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) in Ireland. There are 10 different levels in the framework ranging from Certificates at Level 1 to doctoral level degrees.

The following table provides an overview of all the 10 NFQ levels, the degrees or certifications awarded at each level, and how the NFQ level in Ireland compares to the European Qualification Framework (EQF).