| The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is a | | | | therefore recognised around Australia and by other |
| system of seventeen national qualifications that assists | | | | countries The qualifications are grouped according to |
| students to plan their careers and learning. AQF | | | | the educational sector in which they are most |
| qualifications allow both domestic and international | | | | commonly issued. To see the table visit: |
| students to start at the level that suits them and then | | | | A qualification normally offered in one sector may |
| build up their qualifications as their needs and interests | | | | sometimes be provided by an institution in a different |
| develop and change over time. | | | | sector eg. Schools' may offer a Certificate III course |
| The AQF is important as it: | | | | within their senior school program; some Universities |
| - provides a clear structure for the level of each | | | | may offer a Diploma; and some Vocational Colleges |
| qualification | | | | may offer Bachelor Degrees. |
| - allows students to build their qualifications from lower | | | | Some courses do not award a formal qualification as |
| to higher levels | | | | listed on the AQF table above, even though they offer |
| - allows one education institution to clearly understand | | | | excellent education and outcomes. For example: |
| the level of a qualification awarded by another and | | | | - many English language courses (ELICOS) |
| provide appropriate credit | | | | - some foundation studies |
| - determines the student visa subclass that a student | | | | - non-award programs All AQF qualifications and the |
| receives when they study in Australia | | | | providers/institutions accredited to deliver and issue |
| - is endorsed by all Australian governments through | | | | these qualifications are listed in The AQF Register of |
| the Ministerial Council on Education, Employment, | | | | Recognised Education Institutions and Authorised |
| Training and Youth Affairs (MCEETYA) and is | | | | Accreditation Authorities in Australia. |