What QQI Level is the Leaving Certificate: Complete Guide for Irish Students
Imagine: you’ve just sat your Leaving Certificate exams in Ireland, and you’re asking yourself: “Great, but what exactly is this in terms of QQI or NFQ levels? Where do I go next?” Many students (and parents, too) get stuck on exactly this question. This blog is your “map” to understand where the Leaving Cert fits in the Irish qualifications hierarchy, how it compares with QQI courses, and what pathways open up afterward.
Why is this question so common? Because Ireland’s education system is layered: you have second-level (school) education, further education & training (FET / QQI), higher education (university, institutes of technology, etc.). The qualification you hold—whether Leaving Cert or QQI Level 5 or 6—matters a lot when applying for college, jobs, apprenticeships, or doing adult education. Knowing which level your credential corresponds to helps you, your parents, and future employers or institutions make sense of equivalencies. It also avoids confusion like “Is Leaving Cert Level 6?” (spoiler: mostly not).
In this blog, we’ll walk step by step:
- What is the Leaving Certificate (history, structure, levels like Higher/Ordinary, variants)
- What is QQI and the NFQ (the 10-level system, how QQI works)
- Precisely, what QQI level corresponds to the Leaving Certificate
- How Leaving Cert compares with QQI courses (strengths, differences)
- What pathways open to you post‑Leaving Cert (college, PLC, apprenticeships, adult routes)
- For those who do not have a Leaving Cert, what alternative routes exist
- The role of mathematics in Leaving Cert vs QQI
- Why understanding QQI levels matters (for you, parents, employers)
- Myths and common confusions
- Real-life student journeys / case studies
- International comparison (how Irish NFQ aligns with Europe)
- Closing thoughts & next steps
Main focus keyword will be “What QQI Level is the Leaving Certificate”, and I’ll signal others like QQI Levels explained, QQI vs Leaving Cert, Leaving Cert NFQ level, etc., naturally in the flow. The tone is like a warm teacher explaining gently to a student (or their parent) who’s confused. Let’s begin!
What is the Leaving Certificate?
Before mapping it onto QQI levels, you need a solid understanding of the Leaving Certificate (often called “Leaving Cert” or “LC”). Imagine, you’re in secondary school in Ireland finishing 5th and 6th year and preparing for your final exams—that’s the Leaving Certificate.
History and Purpose
- The Leaving Certificate is the terminal examination of second-level education in Ireland. It’s governed by the State Examinations Commission (SEC).
- Historically, it evolved from older certification systems but over time became standardized. It acts as the credential that signals you’ve completed senior cycle secondary education.
- Its purpose: to assess students’ knowledge, skills, and readiness for higher education or the workforce. It is the main route for entry into universities via CAO (Central Applications Office), but it’s not the only one.
Structure, Subjects, and Levels
When you sit the Leaving Cert, you typically choose six or more subjects. Some students take more subjects and drop lower ones later. Subjects span languages, mathematics, sciences, social studies, arts, business, technology, etc.
Each subject is offered at two (or sometimes three) levels:
- Ordinary Level (O‑level / “Ord”): more accessible, less depth in content
- Higher Level (H‑level / “Higher”): more demanding, more challenging work
- (For some subjects, a Foundation level in mathematics is available, for students struggling with regular math.)
Your final grade in each subject is determined by your exam performance (written papers, practicals, orals where relevant). There is also continuous assessment in some subjects (projects, portfolios), but the exam is central.
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Variants: Established, LCVP, LCA
The Leaving Certificate is not a single uniform program — there are variants:
- Established Leaving Certificate (“traditional”): This is the common route. You pick subjects, do exams at Ordinary or Higher level, etc.
- Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP): This is like the established Leaving Cert with an added “link module” in enterprise, work, and preparation for the world of work. It gives you additional recognition for skills like work‑experience, enterprise, and languages. But fundamentally it’s still mapped to the same levels as the established one.
- Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA): This is a more vocational/skills-based program, less exam-intense, designed for students who prefer a more hands-on, continuous assessment approach. However, LCA is not accepted for many university CAO entry routes (i.e., many third-level institutions don’t accept it for direct entry).
Because of that, many students in the LCA route often move into QQI or PLC courses after LCA, which can then help them enter higher education.
Higher vs Ordinary Level: What’s the Difference?
Let’s compare:
| Feature | Ordinary Level | Higher Level |
| Depth & difficulty | Less depth, simpler exam | More depth, more challenging questions |
| Content breadth | Covers core syllabus, fewer bonus topics | Covers full syllabus and more optional topics |
| Grade scale | O1, O2, O3, … to O8 | H1, H2, H3… up to H8 |
| Points potential (for CAO) | Lower maximum points | Higher points (a good Higher-level grade gives more points) |
| Suitability | If you find the subject difficult or want safer route | If you want to push, aim for university or elite courses |
To do well in Higher level, you often need stronger study skills, deeper conceptual understanding, and better exam stamina. Some students do certain subjects at Ordinary and others at Higher (mixing based on strength).
Why People Ask “What Level is Leaving Certificate in QQI/NFQ?”
Because the Leaving Cert is not directly a QQI course (it’s administered by SEC), people often get confused about what NFQ level it corresponds to. This question matters when trying to equate school leaving credentials with further education and training awards. So the next section explains what QQI/NFQ is.
What is QQI?
To understand “What QQI level is the Leaving Certificate,” we must first understand QQI and the NFQ (National Framework of Qualifications). Let me break it down simply, like teaching a class.
The NFQ (National Framework of Qualifications)
Think of NFQ as a ladder with 10 rungs (Levels 1 through 10). Each rung represents increasing knowledge, skills, and competence. The idea: any qualification in Ireland fits on one of these rungs. That way, you can see which courses “rise above” or “match” others.
From QQI:
“In Ireland, we describe the qualifications used in our education and training system through the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). The NFQ classifies the level, class of award and type of qualifications in Ireland from Level 1 literacy qualifications, through to Junior Cycle and Leaving Certificate and Level 10 doctoral degrees.”
QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland) is the body responsible for further education awards (Levels 1–6) and helps maintain the NFQ.
Here’s a simplified version of the NFQ levels and where typical education stages fall:
| NFQ Level | Name / Type | Typical Stage / Equivalent | What it means in “learning terms” |
| Level 1 | Basic certificate / literacy | Early learning / very elementary | Basic foundational skills |
| Level 2 | Certificate | Junior Cycle light / special needs | Slightly more developed, basic knowledge |
| Level 3 | Junior Certificate | End of lower secondary schooling | Basic secondary qualifications |
| Level 4 | Certificate | Some Leaving Cert equivalent (Ordinary) | More structured learning, preparing for more advanced study |
| Level 5 | Certificate / Major FET Award | Leaving Certificate higher, PLC courses | More depth, can support progress to higher education |
| Level 6 | Advanced Certificate / Higher Certificate | QQI Level 6 in FET, some Higher Education levels | More specialized; can sometimes lead to degree or advanced entry |
| Level 7 | Ordinary Bachelor Degree | University / Institute | Entry-level degree / undergraduate qualification |
| Level 8 | Honours Bachelor Degree, Higher Diploma | University / Institute | Full bachelor’s with honours, or related diplomas |
| Level 9 | Masters / Postgraduate Diploma | Higher education | Advanced postgraduate |
| Level 10 | Doctorate / Higher Doctorate | University / research | Highest academic level |
This “fan diagram” helps students see progression from FET → Higher Education and compare international qualifications too.
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Role of QQI
- QQI accredits courses in further education & training (FET), meaning Levels 1 to 6—these include PLC, adult education, vocational courses.
- QQI sets the standards, validates providers, and issues certificates for those courses.
- For higher education (Levels 7–10), universities and institutes have their own awarding powers, though QQI may still play a role in some validations or partnerships.
So, QQI is not a “school exam board” like SEC, but rather the body that handles further education awards and aligns qualifications to the NFQ.
What are QQI / FET Courses?
“FET” stands for Further Education and Training. QQI / FET courses are non‑degree programmes which often focus on vocational, technical, or applied skills. Examples include:
- PLC (Post Leaving Certificate) courses
- Apprenticeships
- Special purpose or community courses
- Adult learning courses
These come in various levels (Level 4, 5, 6) depending on difficulty, depth, and credit volume.
A major QQI award means you have completed a full programme (not just individual modules). Individual modules or parts are called “minor awards” or “components.” Only a major award is generally accepted as a full qualification for CAO entry.
NFQ Levels & Education Stages — Table
Here’s a clearer table linking NFQ levels, Irish education stages, and what a student might face:
| NFQ Level | Education Stage / Equivalent | Who awards it / how | Use / Progression |
| Level 1–2 | Basic/special needs / early secondary | QQI minor awards or special programmes | For foundational learners |
| Level 3 | Junior Cert (lower secondary) | SEC / QQI minor awards | Basic secondary completion |
| Level 4 | Leaving Cert (Ordinary / lower end) / Level 4 QQI certificate | SEC / QQI | Entry point to higher FET, PLC |
| Level 5 | Leaving Cert (Higher) equivalent, PLC courses | QQI major award | Entry to higher education via CAO, certain jobs |
| Level 6 | QQI Advanced Certificate / Higher Certificate | QQI or HE institutions | Gateway to degrees, skip first year in some cases |
| Level 7 | Ordinary Bachelor’s degree | Higher Education | Standard degree |
| Level 8 | Honours Bachelor’s degree / Higher Diploma | Higher Education | Full degree, entry to the Masters |
| Level 9 | Master’s / Postgrad diploma | Higher Education | Advanced postgraduate |
| Level 10 | Doctorate / PhD | Higher Education | Research, the highest academic credential |
In practice, levels 4 and 5 are the “sweet spot” for school-to-further education transition, while level 6 is a stepping stone to higher education.
So now that we have QQI and NFQ understood, let’s see where the Leaving Cert fits.
What QQI Level is the Leaving Certificate?
This is the core question. Let me explain clearly and simply:
Official Position & Interpretations
The Leaving Certificate is not a QQI course. It is administered by the State Examinations Commission (SEC), not QQI. So, it doesn’t have a “QQI level” per se. However, you can map it broadly onto NFQ levels based on the educational standards and how institutions recognize it.
According to various sources and educational commentators, the Leaving Cert corresponds to NFQ Level 4 and Level 5, depending on Ordinary vs Higher level performance.
- Ordinary Level (O-level) subjects are generally equated with Level 4
- Higher Level (H-level) subjects are equated with Level 5
So when you see someone say, “The Leaving Cert is Level 4/5 on the NFQ,” that is the typical, generally accepted mapping.
Some more educational blogs or websites state that a student achieving strong Higher-level results might be viewed as holding a Level 5-equivalent leaving cert.
The idea is: a strong Higher-level Leaving Cert pushes you into the “Level 5” territory of NFQ, while weaker or more basic results may correspond more to Level 4.
Example & Simple Analogy
Imagine you have two students:
- Student A: All six subjects at Ordinary level, with average grades.
- Student B: All six at Higher level, several high grades like H1, H2.
Student A’s Leaving Cert is closer to NFQ Level 4 in baseline equivalence, while Student B’s is closer to Level 5 (or at least within that bracket). So, in casual conversation, people often say “the Leaving Cert is Level 5” or “the Leaving Cert counts as Level 5” — but nuanced truth is: some of it is Level 4, some of it Level 5, depending on subject level and performance.
Also, PP the Leaving Cert has features that make it straddle this boundary: it has both foundational and more advanced content, and skills of analysis, knowledge recall, and application. Institutions accept Leaving Cert as a “Level 4/5 equivalent” across many uses.
Why It’s Not Strictly One Level
- Because the Leaving Cert was developed independently of QQI, it wasn’t designed with NFQ levels in mind.
- The depth of learning in a Higher level subject might surpass a lower-level QQI course, making equivalency fuzzy.
- Institutions or employers often look beyond just the “level” — they look at grades, subjects, and performance.
- Also, because QQI and NFQ were designed later, the equivalency is interpretive, not absolute.
Practical Implication: What Do Colleges Think?
For admissions purposes, many colleges accept Leaving Cert as satisfying a Level 5-equivalent credential. That means someone with a good Higher level Leaving Cert can often use it as the basis for applying to programmes that accept QQI Level 5. Institutions view the higher-performing Leaving Cert as “good enough” to be treated like Level 5.
To summarise:
In everyday terms, the Leaving Certificate is mapped to NFQ Levels 4 and 5. Ordinary level tends to align with Level 4; strong Higher-level performance aligns with Level 5.
When someone asks “What QQI level is the Leaving Certificate?” a safe and SEO‑friendly answer is:
The Leaving Cert is generally considered to be NFQ Level 4/5 — Ordinary level aligns with Level 4, Higher level aligns with Level 5.
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Comparison: Leaving Certificate vs QQI Courses
Now that we know where the Leaving Cert maps, let’s compare it head to head with QQI courses (mainly Levels 4, 5, and 6) in terms of how they work, strengths, limitations, recognition, etc.
Key Differences: Exam vs Continuous Assessment
- Leaving Certificate: Primarily exam-driven. You sit final exams, and your grade depends heavily on those. Some subjects have project work or oral/practical components, but exams dominate.
- QQI / FET courses: Many rely more on continuous assessment, portfolio work, assignments, practicals, work placement, and fewer “sit-down final exams.” This is especially true in vocational or applied courses.
Because of this difference, students who struggle in high-stakes exams might perform better in QQI courses, while others who thrive in exam settings might prefer the Leaving Cert route.
Academic vs Vocational Focus
- The Leaving Cert is more academically oriented (though it includes practical subjects). It gives you a broad academic foundation across subjects.
- QQI courses especially at Levels 4–6 often lean vocational / applied. For example: child care, business administration, computing, hospitality, engineering technician, health care. They aim to teach you skills directly applicable in the workplace.
This makes QQI courses more tailored to job readiness or applied roles, whereas the Leaving Cert is more general.
Flexibility and Pathways
- In QQI, you often have modular structure and minor awards, meaning you can pick parts, stack modules, progress gradually.
- With Leaving Cert, you must complete the full exam program in the set subject list.
- QQI allows recognition of prior learning (RPL) — if you’ve done work, you might be credited for modules. The Leaving Cert does not have that flexibility.
Recognition & Acceptance
- Leaving Cert is widely accepted by universities, especially through CAO, as the standard school-leaving credential.
- QQI Level 5 / Level 6 major awards are accepted by many universities and higher education institutions, often via reserved places or by using CAO Round 0. For example: “Applicants presenting full QQI FET Level 5 or Level 6 awards will not be required to meet the minimum entry requirements based on Leaving Certificate results” in many institutions.
- However, note: only major awards are acceptable for CAO; minor awards or individual modules are not enough.
- Sometimes QQI awards give you the possibility of advanced entry into year 2 of a degree if overlap exists.
Where One Might Be Better
- If you aim for traditional university degree paths, student may prefer Leaving Cert + strong Higher level results.
- If you want vocational / technical skills and want to start working earlier, or prefer hands-on learning, a QQI course might suit you more.
- For students who struggle with exams, QQI gives more opportunity to show what you know through projects and continuous assessment.
Pathways After Leaving Cert
Okay, you’ve done your Leaving Certificate (or will soon). Now what are your options? Let’s explore various routes: university, PLC/QQI, apprenticeships, adult learning.
1. Going to University / Higher Education via CAO
This is the typical route:
- You apply through the CAO (Central Applications Office) using your Leaving Cert results.
- You aim to get enough points in the subjects required for your chosen course.
- Many courses require certain subjects (e.g. Maths, a language, sciences).
- If accepted, you enter Level 7 (Ordinary Bachelor) or sometimes Level 8 (Honours Bachelor), depending on the institution.
- Some degree programmes may allow advanced entry or exemptions if you have a QQI-level qualification or similar.
2. PLC / QQI Level 5 / 6 Courses (Further Education)
If your Leaving Cert results are not sufficient for direct university entry, or you want to gain skills first:
- Enroll in a PLC (Post Leaving Certificate) course, typically a QQI Level 5 (or sometimes Level 6).
- These courses often run in colleges, further education centres, ETBs.
- After completing a QQI Level 5 major award, you can:
- Apply to higher education via CAO (many institutions reserve places for QQI applicants).
- Go into work directly (vocational courses align with industries).
- Proceed to a Level 6 QQI course (if you want more specialization).
- Once you get Level 6, some institutions allow skipping the first year of a degree or get advanced entry.
- Note: the CAO treats QQI Level 5 & 6 as a separate entry route (Round 0).
3. Apprenticeships
Another strong pathway is apprenticeship (especially for technical trades):
- Many apprenticeships lead to QQI level 6 or higher-level qualifications.
- You learn on the job + classroom training.
- On completion, you have a recognized credential, relevant work experience, and often a job.
- Some apprenticeships may require a Leaving Cert or QQI Level 5, depending on the trade.
4. Jobs or Direct Work
If you have decent Leaving Cert results, especially in vocational or practical subjects, or supplemented by a QQI certification, you might:
- Enter fields like retail, administration, hospitality, business support, etc.
- Use internships, volunteering, and practical experience to boost employability.
- Then later do part-time QQI or degree courses while working.
5. Adult Learners and Further Education
If some years have passed, or you’re returning to education:
- Many adult education providers offer QQI courses (Levels 4–6).
- You can do part-time or evening courses.
- Use Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to convert work experience into credit.
- Eventually, you can make your way back to a higher education path.
This flexibility is a key strength of the QQI / NFQ system.
So, even ifthe Leaving Cert doesn’t go well for you, options remain open. Let’s look especially at what to do if you don’t have a Leaving Cert at all.
For Students Without Leaving Cert
Okay, you didn’t or couldn’t complete the Leaving Certificate. Don’t worry—there are alternative paths. Let’s explore.
VTOS, BTEI, Adult Courses
- VTOS (Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme) is for unemployed adults. You can take full-time courses, often leading to QQI awards.
- BTEI (Back to Education Initiative) provides part-time courses for adults, also at QQI levels.
- Many FET / QQI centres offer adult education courses (Levels 3 up to 6), helping you build credentials over time.
RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning)
If you’ve done work, volunteering, or informal training, you might have skills and knowledge that count. RPL allows you to get credit or exemptions for modules. Then you don’t have to redo what you already know. Many QQI providers embrace RPL as a way to build inclusive access.
PLC / QQI Entry without Leaving Cert
Many PLC / QQI courses do not strictly require Leaving Cert. Providers often accept students based on interview, motivation, prior learning, or completing certain modules. That means you can start in a Level 4 or 5 QQI course, then progress upward. In fact, in Reddit discussions, some students without Leaving Cert took PLC or QQI Level 5 courses and then used those to enter higher education.
As one student wrote:
“You don’t need to do a Leaving Certificate to progress to college… you may need to take extra stepping stones … such as a QQI Level 5 or 6 course.”
Why this route is strong
- It gives a second chance.
- You can progress at your pace.
- It’s more flexible and forgiving than school-based exams.
- You build a portfolio of skills and learning — useful for employment as well as further education.
Thus, no Leaving Cert is not the end — many people walk a QQI path and reach degree-level education later.
Role of Maths: Leaving Cert vs QQI
Mathematics is often a make-or-break subject, especially for many degree courses. Let’s see how it works in Leaving Cert vs QQI.
In the Leaving Certificate
- Maths is often compulsory (or at least highly recommended) for students aiming for sciences, engineering, business, etc.
- Maths is offered at Higher, Ordinary, and Foundation levels. Many students taking foundation level do so because they struggle with the mainstream syllabus.
- If you don’t take Maths, or take it at very low level, some third-level courses won’t accept you. It can block entry to STEM, engineering, or quantitative business courses.
In QQI / FET Courses
- Many QQI Level 5/6 programmes include a Maths module (or modules) as part of the curriculum, especially in business, computing, engineering.
- But Maths is often more applied, targeted to what you need for that field (less abstract theory than in the Leaving Cert).
- Some QQI courses may not require Maths, or require only basic arithmetic skills, depending on the discipline.
Transition & Recognition Issues
- If you’re doing a QQI Level 5 course and want to apply to engineering at the university, the university may require that your QQI Maths module matches the Leaving Cert Maths requirement. Some institutions require that your QQI Maths be equivalent to a Higher level Leaving Certificate Maths or at least meet certain learning outcomes.
- Some institutions do not accept a QQI Maths module in lieu of a Leaving Cert Higher maths requirement (i.e. they still want you to have done it in Leaving Cert).
Advice to Students
- If you can, take Maths in Leaving Cert at Higher or Ordinary level — it’s often safer for future course requirements.
- If you’re taking a QQI route, check whether your preference degree course demands a Maths module of certain standard — choose a QQI course that includes that module.
- Always check with the college/university admissions office: they decide whether your Maths is acceptable.
In short: Maths is a gateway subject in both Leaving Cert and QQI routes, but the specific requirements and flexibility differ. Be strategic with it.
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Why Understanding QQI Levels Matters
You might wonder: “Do I really need to know all this level-mapping stuff?” The short answer: Yes, because it affects your future choices, credibility, and how your qualifications are viewed by others. Here’s why it matters.
1. For You (the Student)
- You’ll know which courses you qualify for (and which ones you don’t). If you misunderstand the level, you might apply for a course you’re ineligible for.
- It helps you plan a progression path: from your current qualification to where you want to reach (degree, postgraduate, etc.).
- It helps you evaluate offers: some courses might accept you with QQI Level 5, but others might demand a strong Leaving Cert.
2. For Parents & Supporters
- Many parents are unfamiliar with QQI and the NFQ. If you can explain “this is Level 5/6, it’s accepted for college” it gives confidence.
- Helps avoid myths and confusion (e.g. “Oh, QQI is just for dropouts” — no, it’s not).
3. For Colleges, Employers, Institutions
- Employers can compare what a given qualification really means (e.g. whether an applicant’s Leaving Cert is equivalent to QQI Level 5).
- Institutions (universities, colleges) use the NFQ levels to validate prior learning, grant recognition or give credit transfers.
- Internationally, when students or employees go abroad, the NFQ helps map Irish credentials to other countries’ frameworks.
4. For Lifelong Learning & Mobility
- You might return to education later; knowing how your past credentials map helps you re-enter at an appropriate level.
- It’s crucial for international recognition — if you apply abroad, your Irish Leaving Cert or QQI certificate must translate into something meaningful in another system (e.g. in UK, EU).
- You avoid doing unnecessary foundational courses because you know you already have higher-level credentials.
In summary: knowing “What QQI level is the Leaving Certificate” is not just academic curiosity — it’s practical. It influences your future, your planning, and how others see your skills.
Myths & Confusions
Because the Irish system is a mix of SEC, QQI, different levels, and legacy systems, many ideas get misunderstood. Let’s bust some myths.
Myth 1: “Leaving Cert is Level 6”
This is wrong. Many people assume it’s Level 6 (because “6” seems high). But the correct mapping is Level 4/5 — not 6.
Myth 2: “A QQI Level 5 is weaker than Leaving Cert”
Not always. Some QQI Level 5 courses are as demanding as Leaving Cert or more in certain vocational skills. And many colleges accept QQI Level 5 as equivalent to Leaving Cert for admission.
Myth 3: “If I do QQI Level 5, university won’t accept me”
False. Many universities, especially in Ireland, accept Level 5 or Level 6 QQI major awards via CAO or reserved places.
Myth 4: “Minor awards / individual QQI modules suffice for college entry”
False. Only major awards (the full QQI programme) are generally accepted for CAO or admission. Individual modules or partial credits are seldom accepted alone.
Myth 5: “I must have Leaving Cert to do anything worthwhile”
Not true — many people do QQI routes, apprenticeships, or adult education, and end up in great careers or universities later. The system is meant to provide multiple entry points.
Myth 6: “All colleges treat QQI the same as Leaving Cert”
No — while many do, some have stricter rules (e.g. requiring certain subjects or Maths equivalency). Always check your target institution’s entry criteria.
Myth 7: “Once I take QQI, I can’t go back to using my Leaving Cert”
You can — you might have both. Sometimes students do QQI while retaining Leaving Cert or use leftover Leaving Cert results alongside QQI qualifications.
By clarifying these, you avoid confusion, false expectations, or closing doors you didn’t need to.
Real-Life Student Journeys
Let’s see how this works in real life. Here are three case studies (fictional but realistic, based on many real accounts).
Case Study 1: Emma — the mixed-level student
Emma did her Leaving Certificate, taking Maths at Ordinary and English, Irish, Biology, History, and French at Higher. She got moderate results—good in English, okay in Science, weaker in Maths. Her CAO points fell short for her top university choice.
What she did next:
- Enrolled in a QQI Level 5 PLC in Business for one year.
- Did well — got distinctions in relevant modules, built a portfolio, and included a Maths module as required.
- She applied to university via CAO using her QQI results (Round 0). Her QQI qualification was accepted.
- She entered an undergraduate degree in business. Because of her QQI modules, she skipped one introductory business module in the degree (partial credit).
Emma’s story shows how Leaving Cert and QQI can complement each other.
Case Study 2: John — no Leaving Cert, second chance
John left secondary school after 5th year and didn’t complete the Leaving Cert (for personal reasons). Years later, he wanted to pursue a career in computers.
What he did:
- Took a QQI Level 4 course in Information Technology through adult education.
- Then moved to QQI Level 5 in Software Development.
- Simultaneously, he did some part-time work and built a portfolio (coding, small projects).
- He completed his Level 5 major award.
- Then applied to a degree programme via CAO on the basis of his QQI qualification.
- He got in. Over time, he progressed to a Level 8 honours degree and is now working in IT.
John’s path demonstrates that no Leaving Cert is not a dead end.
Case Study 3: Aoife — apprenticeship and advancement
Aoife loved mechanics but didn’t want purely academic routes. She did her Leaving Cert, but didn’t have top grades in maths or physics.
What she did:
- Entered a motor mechanics apprenticeship, which gave her a QQI Level 6 equivalent award on completion.
- She also took some QQI modules in automotive systems, diagnostics, etc.
- After finishing, she worked in a garage, gained experience, then applied for advanced technician courses in a further college.
- Later, she even entered a diploma or degree in mechanical engineering using her apprenticeship and QQI qualifications.
Aoife’s journey shows how a hybrid path (leaving cert → apprenticeship → QQI → higher education) can succeed.
These stories are common among students in Ireland. The beauty of the system is flexibility: there is rarely a single rigid path.
International Comparison
Ireland’s NFQ is not standalone—it aligns with European and international frameworks. This makes your Irish qualification portable and comparable abroad.
NFQ ↔ EQF & QF‑EHEA
- The European Qualifications Framework (EQF) is Europe’s 8-level system. NFQ levels map to EQF levels (e.g. NFQ Level 4 ~ EQF Level 4, NFQ Level 5 ~ EQF 5, etc.).
- Also, the Qualifications Framework of the European Higher Education Area (QF‑EHEA) maps degree cycles (bachelor, master, doctorate) across countries. NFQ Levels 7 and 8 correspond to the first and second cycle of QF-EHEA.
Thus, when you hold an NFQ Level 5 or 6 (or Leaving Cert mapped to 4/5), a university abroad can see roughly where you stand in their credential framework.
Recognition Abroad & Mobility
- Suppose you apply to a UK university with a Leaving Cert (NFQ Level 5 equivalent). The UK will compare it to A-levels or equivalent.
- Holding a QQI Level 5 or 6 is often seen as akin to vocational qualifications or certificates abroad.
- Many EU or UK institutions accept Irish QQI / NFQ levels so long as equivalences are clear.
- For students wanting to move abroad, having clear NFQ mapping helps in credential evaluation by international bodies (e.g. UK NARIC, ENIC).
Example: NFQ, Leaving Cert, EQF in Wikipedia mapping
Wikipedia’s article on NFQ notes:
“In the framework, Junior Certificate corresponds to NFQ Level 3, Leaving Certificate corresponds to NFQ Levels 4–5, Advanced Certificate (QQI) corresponds to Level 6, and degrees correspond to Levels 7–8, etc.”
So when someone sees “Leaving Cert Level 5,” internationally, they can map it to EQF Level 5 or equivalent vocational/academic bands in other countries.
In short, your Irish qualification doesn’t stay local — it has meaning and recognition across Europe and beyond.
Conclusion
So—what have we learned?
- The Leaving Certificate is not technically a QQI course, but in practice it maps to NFQ Levels 4 and 5 (Ordinary level toward Level 4, Higher-level toward Level 5).
- QQI, via the NFQ, provides a structured ladder (Levels 1–10) that lets you understand qualifications, plan progression, and compare across courses and borders.
- Leaving Cert and QQI courses differ in assessment style (exam vs continuous), focus (academic vs vocational), and flexibility, but both are valid pathways to further education or work.
- After leaving cert, you can go to university through CAO, take QQI / PLC courses, do apprenticeships, or even re-enter via adult education. Even without Leaving Cert, QQI offers strong second-chance routes.
- Maths plays a critical role; the standard required in Leaving Cert or QQI may determine eligibility for many degree programmes.
- Knowing QQI levels matters—for you, for parents, for admissions offices, for employers, and for international recognition.
- Common myths exist (e.g. “Leaving Cert is Level 6”) which we’ve clarified.
- Real student stories show that there is no single “right path”—many mix, switch, and still succeed.
- Internationally, NFQ maps to European qualification frameworks, so your Irish credential has meaning abroad.
Next steps for you:
- Check the entry requirements of the college or degree you want, particularly regarding Maths or subject prerequisites.
- If your Leaving Cert results aren’t enough, look into PLC / QQI Level 5 courses that align with your dream course.
- Talk to guidance counsellors or QQI course providers about how their modules map into your intended degree.
- Keep flexibility in mind: you can always combine Leaving Cert, QQI, and adult learning to reach your goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Differences between Leaving Cert and Leaving Cert Applied
The normal Leaving Cert’s all books and exams — essays, points, study marathons. The Applied one’s more for people who prefer getting stuck in, doing projects or work placements instead of just writing papers. It’s graded across the year, not one big exam blowout. You can’t use it for every CAO degree, but it still opens doors to QQI or PLC courses after.
2. Can Leaving Certificate points be used for CAO entry?
Yeah, that’s the main way most of us get in. You take your best six subjects, convert them to points, and see what the colleges offer you. Higher Level gives you more, Ordinary a bit less. If you’re short, no big deal — loads of people grab a QQI Level 5 the next year and try Round 0. Works fine.
3. How to get a QQI Level 5 from post-Leaving Certificate courses
You just sign up for a PLC course. It’s usually one year, half classroom, half real-world work. You’ll have assignments instead of endless exams, and once you finish all your modules you get a full Level 5 award. That’s your ticket into college or even a decent job if you’d rather work first.
4. Is Leaving Cert a Level 4 or Level 5 qualification?
Sort of depends, really. Ordinary level sits close to NFQ Level 4, Higher level’s more like Level 5. It’s not a QQI award as such — the State Exams crowd handle it — but colleges still treat strong Higher grades as if you’ve done a Level 5. That’s why people sometimes call it both.
5. Is a QQI Level 5 course part of third-level education in Ireland?
Not exactly, no. It’s counted as further education — the in-between bit before university. Think of it like a stepping-stone: finish your Level 5, get your credits, then you can jump straight into a degree or a higher cert after. It’s a smart way in if your Leaving Cert didn’t go to plan.
6. Can someone help me figure out if my Leaving Cert counts as a QQI Level 5 for college?
Oh, definitely! If you smashed Higher-level subjects, most colleges treat your Leaving Cert as Level 5 on the NFQ. For example, IT Carlow or Dublin IT usually accept it for CAO entry to PLC or business courses. Makes planning your next step a lot easier.
7. Can I do my CAO application using a mix of Leaving Cert and QQI Level 5 results?
Yep, that’s actually pretty common. Colleges like Trinity or UCD allow Round 0 entry if you’ve got a combination of Leaving Cert and QQI Level 5 results. Makes it handy if you didn’t get your dream grades first time round.
8. Can a QQI Level 5 module replace Leaving Cert Higher Maths for nursing?
It depends on the course. Some HSE nursing programmes insist on Leaving Cert Maths, but many PLC maths modules at Level 5 are accepted for CAO Round 0. Best bet: ring the admissions office—they’ll give the final word.
9. Can someone write me a plan if I didn’t do Leaving Cert at all?
Yeah, plenty of students start with QQI Level 4 or 5 courses if they missed Leaving Cert. For example, a Level 5 Business or Social Care course in Cork College of FET can kickstart your CAO points. Guidance counsellors love helping with this.
10. Is QQI Level 5 really easier than Leaving Cert?
Not always! Some QQI courses are very hands-on. You’ll do projects, assignments, even work placements. For example, TILDA or Age Action programmes are practical, so it can actually be more challenging than sitting exams all day.
11. What if I mix Ordinary and Higher-level Leaving Cert subjects—what level does that become?
It’s a mix really. Ordinary leans Level 4, Higher leans Level 5. Colleges mostly look at your overall points and performance. So even if some subjects were Ordinary, strong Higher results can push you into Level 5 territory.
12. Can my Level 5-equivalent Leaving Cert help me skip a year in college?
Sometimes, yes. If you do QQI Level 6 after a strong Leaving Cert, certain courses let you skip the first year. IT Carlow and Limerick IT do this in some cases. Always check with the course coordinator first.
