The comparability tool builds on existing practices from national ENIC/NARIC offices and enhances transparency in the automatic recognition process. It allows users to compare qualifications from the country where the qualification was obtained to the country where it will be used, using the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) as a reference.
It supports deeper cooperation and integration among the participating countries and is designed to include new members over time, with the potential to expand into a broader European network for automatic qualification recognition.
Below is a list of clarified categories presented in the comparability table, which may not be familiar to some of its users:
QF – EHEA Cycle (Qualifications Framework of the European Higher Education Area)
It is a system designed to harmonize higher education across Europe which divides higher education into four cycles:
- Short cycle: short cycle degree
- First Cycle: usually Bachelor's level degree.
- Second Cycle: usually Master's level degree.
- Third Cycle: usually Doctorate/PhD level degree.
EHEA cycle classification is commonly used to improve comparability and recognition of qualifications across different countries participating in the Bologna Process.
NQF Level (National Qualifications Framework Level)
NQF indicates qualification level according to the outcomes expected and is defined by national education system bodies.
Levels range from 1 (basic knowledge) to 8 (doctoral level expertise).
EQF Level (European Qualifications Framework Level)
EQF indicates qualification level according to the outcomes expected and is defined by regulating bodies of EU. It helps translate and unify national qualifications into a common European reference.
Levels range from 1 (basic knowledge) to 8 (doctoral level expertise).
Admission Requirements
Criteria needed to enter a specific education program.
As a general rule previous qualification is required (e.g., high school diploma for bachelor’s) but admission requirements may also include entrance exams, interviews or other criteria.
Study Duration & Workload
- Duration: Total time to complete the program (e.g., 4 years for bachelor’s).
- Workload: Measured in ECTS credits in Europe.
1 ECTS = 25–30 hours of work.
Typical amount for one academic year is 60 ECTS.
Rights Granted
Legal or academic entitlements upon completion of the qualification.
Examples:
- Access to the next level of study (e.g., bachelor → master).
- Right to use an academic title for professional occupations.
- Access to regulated profession certificates (e.g., teaching, law, medicine).
Recognition Status
Refers to whether the qualification is officially nationally acknowledged and formally recognized by regulative bodies and is legitimate for academic or professional purposes.