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HNC (Higher National Certificate)

A one-year vocational higher education qualification at RQF level 4 (SCQF level 7 in Scotland).

Stands for
Higher National Certificate
Used in
All four UK nations (details may differ)
Topic
Qualifications

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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HND (Higher National Diploma) All four UK nations (details may differ)
A two-year vocational higher education qualification at RQF level 5 (SCQF level 8 in Scotland).
Level 4 England Wales Northern Ireland
A qualification level that includes the Certificate of Higher Education, HNCs and higher apprenticeships.

More terms: Qualifications

Entry level certificate · ESOL · Further maths · Qualification level · Specification · Vocational qualification

More terms starting with H · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.