In the UK, a Level 2 qualification is considered the same level as: 

GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education) at grades A–C or 9–4 

Examples include: 

• Functional Skills Level 2 
• NVQ Level 2  

These qualifications show you have solid knowledge in English, maths, or other subjects and are ready for either further study or entry-level work. 

Philippine Equivalent: 

There is no direct match, but the closest comparisons are: 

• Senior High School (SHS) – particularly Grade 11 or early Grade 12, following the K–12 curriculum 
• TESDA NC II (National Certificate Level II) – for technical or vocational skills, qualifying you for skilled or semi-skilled jobs 

So if you’ve completed SHS or hold a TESDA NC II, you're likely on a similar level to UK Level 2 learners. 

UK Level 3 qualifications are more advanced and include: 

• A Levels 
• BTEC Nationals 
• NVQ Level 3 
• Access to Higher Education Diplomas 

These are usually taken by students preparing to enter university or take on advanced vocational roles. 

Philippine Equivalent: 

A UK Level 3 qualification is broadly equivalent to several pathways within the Philippine education system. The closest match to A Levels or BTEC Nationals would be the completion of Senior High School (SHS), particularly from academic tracks such as STEM or HUMSS, or from the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) track with an NC II certification. In terms of vocational or technical qualifications, the UK’s NVQ Level 3 or Advanced Apprenticeship aligns closely with TESDA’s NC II or NC III awards. Similarly, the UK’s Access to Higher Education Diploma would compare to completing SHS followed by a bridging programme or the first year of university in the Philippines. For formal recognition in some cases, assessment from CHED (Commission on Higher Education) may be required.

The AIM Group provides courses ranging from Level 4 up to Level 7. See the breakdown and Philippine equivalency details below.  

• Level 4  

Level 4 qualifications, such as an HNC or CertHE, correspond to the first year of higher education in the UK and are designed to prepare learners for advanced study or skilled employment. In the Philippines, this is roughly equivalent to the first year of higher education or TESDA’s NC IV level in vocational training.  

• Level 5  

Our Level 5 qualifications, including the Higher National Diploma (HND), Foundation Degree, and Level 5 Diploma, are comparable to the second year of university study in both the UK and the Philippines. They are intended to equip learners with the knowledge and skills needed for professional roles or progression towards a full bachelor’s degree.  

• Level 6  

Our Level 6 qualifications, such as a Bachelor’s degree, mark the completion of undergraduate study in the UK and prepare learners for professional careers or postgraduate education. In the Philippines, the equivalent is PQF Level 6, which likewise corresponds to a Bachelor’s degree awarded by higher education institutions.  

• Level 7  

Our Level 7 qualifications, including Master’s degrees and Postgraduate Diplomas, represent advanced postgraduate study in the UK and are designed to enhance specialist expertise and research skills. In the Philippines, the equivalent is PQF Level 7, which also covers Master’s degrees and postgraduate diplomas offered by higher education institutions. 

UK Level 2 = SHS (Grade 11–12) or TESDA NC II 

UK Level 3 = SHS completion or TESDA NC III / 1st Year Uni, depending on your track 

UK qualifications like Functional Skills are widely accepted by colleges and employers for work or further study 

If you’re planning to study or work in the UK, these comparisons can help you find the right starting point.

ESOL and IELTS are both qualifications that assess and certify English language proficiency. 

ESOL is generally a more beginner- to intermediate-friendly pathway. It is affordable, accessible, and designed to build practical English skills for everyday communication. 

Completing ESOL provides a strong foundation for progressing to IELTS at a later stage. 

Developed in the UK, ESOL is particularly suited for those planning to move there. It is also widely recognized across Commonwealth nations, as well as throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. 

IELTS, by contrast, is often the final step for individuals seeking to work, study, or migrate overseas. As such, ESOL can serve either as a stand-alone qualification or as a pathway toward achieving a full IELTS credential. 

Whether you’re aiming to boost your CV, apply for UK-based jobs, or continue your education abroad, our Functional Skills and CPD courses offer flexible, accessible training designed for international learners.

UK qualifications are internationally recognised and help learners’ resumes stand out on the global stage. Through our partnerships with leading Filipino institutions, The AIM Group is proud to raise educational standards, expand access to quality learning, and create new pathways for personal and professional growth.

With our newly established office in the Philippines, we now serve students nationwide and across Asia, making world-class, UK-accredited education more accessible than ever before.

Our local Sales, Marketing, and Support teams, based right here in the Philippines, provide dedicated, on-the-ground assistance — ensuring every learner enjoys a personalised, supportive, and seamless learning experience, wherever they are in the Philippines.

With The AIM Group’s flexible, UK-accredited online courses, learners can study from anywhere in the world and open doors to exciting international opportunities. Our qualifications are recognised globally, helping students gain the skills and confidence to work, travel, or progress their careers abroad.

The Middle East: Skilled professionals are in high demand across the Middle East, especially in education, business, and healthcare. With The AIM Group, you can earn industry-recognised qualifications that make you stand out – accredited professionals consistently command higher salaries.

Oceania: Take your UK-accredited skills to countries like Australia and New Zealand, where your expertise is valued and recognised. Our online learning gives you the freedom to upskill and prepare for life abroad before you even arrive.

North America: Expand your career potential with globally recognised training that transfers seamlessly across borders. The AIM Group’s online courses give you the flexibility to work toward your goals in one of the world’s most competitive job markets.

Europe: From education to enterprise, Europe offers a wealth of opportunities for qualified professionals. With AIM’s accredited training, you can gain the credentials to thrive across the continent — all from the comfort of home.