What Is an Ofqual Regulated Qualification? Your Complete Guide

You’ve probably seen the phrase “Ofqual regulated qualification” on a course page and paused for a moment. It sounds reassuring, but it also raises questions. Is the course genuinely recognised? Does regulation actually mean anything in practise? And how can you tell the difference between a properly regulated qualification and one that simply sounds official?

In this guide, we explain what an Ofqual regulated qualification really means, why it matters and how you can check it for yourself. We’ll also compare regulated qualifications with CPD and unregulated courses, so you can understand what each option offers and make informed decisions with confidence.

What Does Ofqual Do?

Ofqual regulates qualifications, exams and assessments in England. In simple terms, it acts as the official regulator that helps make sure recognised qualifications meet clear expectations. It oversees the rules that awarding organisations must follow, including how qualifications are designed, assessed and awarded.

This matters because it builds consistent standards and trust. When a qualification is Ofqual regulated, it becomes easier to compare it with other courses, understand its level and feel confident that it meets a regulated standard rather than relying on marketing claims alone.

What is an Ofqual Regulated Qualification?

An Ofqual regulated qualification is a qualification that the regulator officially recognises and lists on the Register of Regulated Qualifications. This register confirms that the qualification meets set standards for content, assessment and quality and that an approved awarding organisation issues it.

Ofqual regulated qualifications include both general qualifications, such as GCSEs and A Levels and vocational qualifications, which focus more on practical and career-related skills. Although these qualifications can look very different on the surface, regulation ensures they all meet clear and consistent expectations.

Regulated vs Unregulated: What’s the Difference?

Regulated qualifications follow clear rules set by the regulator and are awarded by recognised awarding organisations. These qualifications appear on the official register, which means they meet agreed standards for level, assessment and quality. As a result, employers, colleges and universities can easily understand what the qualification represents.

Unregulated training, on the other hand, does not sit within the same regulatory framework. This doesn’t mean it has no value. Many unregulated courses build useful skills or knowledge, especially for short-term learning or professional development. However, because they are not regulated, there is no official benchmark for level or consistency, which makes it harder to compare them with regulated qualifications.

Regulated vs CPD or Accredited Courses: Common Confusion

This is where many people get stuck. CPD or accredited courses often sound official, but they are not the same as Ofqual regulated qualifications. CPD certificates usually show that someone has completed a training or learning activity. They can be useful for developing skills or meeting workplace requirements, but they do not sit within the regulated qualifications framework.

An Ofqual regulated qualification, by contrast, meets set national standards and appears on the official register. This makes it easier to understand its level, value and progression routes.

Things to watch out for:

• The course makes vague claims about being “recognised” without explaining how
• No awarding organisation is named
• There is no qualification number or clear reference to the regulated register
• The course uses terms like “Level 3” loosely without stating whether it is RQF and regulated

Spotting these signs early can help you avoid confusion and choose a course that truly matches your expectations.

How Does the RQF Fit in?

The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) helps people compare qualifications in a clear and consistent way. It shows both the level of a qualification and its size, making it easier to understand how demanding a course is and how much study it involves. Here is a quick clarity guide:

• Level = how difficult the qualification is
• Award / Certificate / Diploma = how large the qualification is, based on the amount of learning involved

Two courses can sit at the same RQF level but differ in size. This distinction helps learners and parents compare options more accurately and choose a route that fits their goals and circumstances.

How to Check If a Qualification is Ofqual Regulated

You don’t have to rely on course descriptions or marketing claims. You can check whether a qualification is Ofqual regulated yourself in a few clear steps.

First, search the official “Find a regulated qualification” service on GOV.UK. This register lists all qualifications that the regulator officially recognises in England. If a qualification appears here, it meets regulated standards. When you find a result, make sure the details match what the provider is advertising. Check:

• the qualification title
• the awarding organisation
• the RQF level
• the qualification number (QAN), where shown

Matching these details is important, as explained in guidance from the Open University on credit transfer and qualification recognition. If you can’t find the qualification on the register, or the details don’t line up, ask the provider to clarify before enrolling. A reputable provider should be able to explain clearly whether a course is Ofqual regulated and supply the correct information.

Why Ofqual Regulation Matters to Learners and Employers

Ofqual regulation gives confidence in what a qualification represents. It signals that the course meets set standards and that its level and assessment carry real meaning, not just a certificate of attendance.

It also improves portability. Because regulated qualifications follow a shared framework, employers, colleges and training providers can recognise and understand them more easily. This makes it simpler to compare candidates and qualifications across different routes.

Finally, regulation supports progression. Learners can move more smoothly from one level to the next, including on to Levels 4 and above, because regulated qualifications clearly show where someone sits within the wider education system.

Where Ofqual Regulated Qualifications Appear

You’ll come across Ofqual regulated qualifications in many parts of the education and training system, often without them being labelled very clearly.

In post-16 and adult education, schools, sixth forms, colleges and adult learning centres use regulated qualifications to offer recognised pathways after GCSEs. These include both academic and vocational routes designed to support progression.

In vocational pathways, regulated qualifications appear across a wide range of sectors. Common areas include health and social care, construction, business administration, beauty and hairdressing, childcare and teaching support. These qualifications help learners build practical skills while working towards a nationally recognised standard.

You’ll also see Ofqual regulated qualifications in employer training. Many organisations use them to upskill staff, meet industry standards, or support professional development, knowing that the qualification carries clear level and recognition.

Conclusion

An Ofqual regulated qualification offers clear reassurance about what a course represents and how it fits into the wider education system. Knowing how to check the official register helps you look beyond labels and make informed choices with confidence. It also makes it easier to compare regulated options with unregulated or CPD courses and choose the one that best suits the learner’s goals.

Alongside the right qualification, online tutoring can provide extra support with study skills, exam preparation and help learners get the most out of their course and stay on track.

FAQs

Does Ofqual regulate qualifications across the whole UK?

No. Ofqual regulates qualifications in England. The regulated qualifications search service also covers England and Northern Ireland. Scotland and Wales use their own regulators and frameworks.

Is an “accredited” certificate the same as regulated?

No. An accredited certificate may show that a course meets certain standards set by a provider or industry body, but it is not the same as an Ofqual regulated qualification. Only regulated qualifications appear on the official register.

Can a course call itself “Level 3” without being regulated?

Yes. Some courses use “Level 3” as a descriptive term without being part of the RQF or regulated by Ofqual. This is why it’s important to check whether the qualification appears on the official register.

How do I find the awarding body?

The awarding body should appear clearly on the course description. You can also find it by searching the qualification on the regulated qualifications register, where the awarding organisation is listed.

What is a QAN or qualification number?

A QAN (Qualification Accreditation Number) is a unique reference number given to a regulated qualification. It helps you confirm that the qualification is officially recognised and ensures you’re checking the correct course on the register.