If you are asking what level is an undergraduate degree, you are likely trying to understand how UK qualifications are structured, especially when comparing degrees with diplomas, apprenticeships, or international qualifications.
In the United Kingdom, an undergraduate degree is typically classified as Level 6 on the national qualifications framework in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, it sits at Level 9 or 10, depending on the year of study.
However, understanding what level is an undergraduate degree requires more than just knowing a number. It involves understanding qualification frameworks, credit values, academic expectations, and how undergraduate study compares to other levels.
This guide explains everything clearly and practically.
Understanding the UK Qualification Framework
To properly answer what level is an undergraduate degree, we need to look at the official frameworks used in the UK.
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, qualifications are structured under the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF).
In Scotland, they are structured under the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF).
These frameworks are regulated by education authorities such as Ofqual and the relevant national bodies.
What Level Is an Undergraduate Degree on the RQF?
On the RQF (England, Wales, Northern Ireland):
Level 4 = First year of undergraduate study
Level 5 = Second year
Level 6 = Final year (Bachelor’s degree award level)
Therefore:
A completed undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s degree) is classified as Level 6.
Examples of Level 6 qualifications:
BA (Bachelor of Arts)
BSc (Bachelor of Science)
LLB (Bachelor of Laws)
BEng (Bachelor of Engineering)
Undergraduate Degree Levels in Scotland
Scotland uses the SCQF system.
Under this framework:
Year 1 = Level 7
Year 2 = Level 8
Year 3 = Level 9
Honours year (Year 4) = Level 10
So in Scotland, an honours undergraduate degree typically sits at Level 10.
This difference can cause confusion when students ask what level is an undergraduate degree across the UK.
Credit Requirements for an Undergraduate Degree
In England:
A standard Bachelor’s degree requires 360 credits
Each academic year equals 120 credits
At Level 6, students complete their final 120 credits at the highest undergraduate academic level.
In Scotland:
Honours degrees usually require 480 credits
Final year credits are at SCQF Level 10
What Does Level 6 Actually Mean?
Knowing what level is an undergraduate degree numerically is helpful, but what does Level 6 represent academically?
Level 6 indicates:
Advanced critical thinking
Independent research capability
Subject specialisation
Complex problem-solving
Analytical evaluation
Students at this level must demonstrate:
Independent learning
Evidence-based argument
Academic referencing
Dissertation or final project completion
How Undergraduate Degrees Compare to Other Levels
Understanding what level is an undergraduate degree becomes clearer when compared to surrounding levels.
Level 3
A-levels
BTEC Level 3
Access to HE Diploma
Level 4
Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE)
First year of degree
Level 5
Foundation Degree
Higher National Diploma (HND)
Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE)
Level 6
Bachelor’s degree (BA, BSc, etc.)
Level 7
Master’s degree
Level 8
Doctorate (PhD)
Is a Foundation Degree an Undergraduate Degree?
Yes, but at a lower level.
A Foundation Degree is:
Level 5 qualification
Equivalent to two years of university study
Students can often “top up” to Level 6 by completing one additional year.
This is important when considering what level is an undergraduate degree versus partial higher education qualifications.
What About Degree Apprenticeships?
Degree apprenticeships can also lead to a Level 6 qualification.
If the apprenticeship awards a Bachelor’s degree, it is classified as Level 6 on the RQF.
Some higher apprenticeships reach Level 7 (Master’s level).
Is an Undergraduate Degree the Same as a Bachelor’s Degree?
In the UK context, yes.
An undergraduate degree typically refers to:
Bachelor’s degrees
First higher education qualification
However, students studying at university before graduation (Years 1–3) are also called undergraduate students.
So when asking what level is an undergraduate degree, the completed qualification level is Level 6 (or Level 10 in Scotland).
How Universities Describe Undergraduate Levels
When applying through UCAS, courses are classified as:
Undergraduate
Postgraduate
Undergraduate includes:
Bachelor’s degrees
Foundation degrees
Integrated Master’s (though final award may reach Level 7)
Integrated Master’s Degrees Explained
Some courses such as:
MEng
MSci
Are technically undergraduate-entry programmes but end at Level 7.
Students start as undergraduates but graduate with a Master’s-level qualification.
This can create confusion when determining what level is an undergraduate degree in integrated programmes.
Entry Requirements for Level 6 Study
To begin a Level 6 qualification (Bachelor’s degree pathway), students usually need:
Level 3 qualifications
A-levels or equivalent
BTEC Level 3
Access to HE Diploma
Universities assess academic readiness for higher education study.
Academic Expectations at Level 6
Students at Level 6 are expected to:
Produce structured academic arguments
Conduct independent research
Use peer-reviewed sources
Demonstrate theoretical understanding
Apply knowledge to practical problems
Assessment may include:
Dissertation (8,000–12,000 words typically)
Exams
Case studies
Group projects
Presentations
International Comparison
For international recognition:
UK Level 6 ≈ Bachelor’s degree in most countries
Equivalent to EQF Level 6 (European Qualifications Framework)
This ensures global academic comparability.
Common Misunderstandings
When researching what level is an undergraduate degree, people often:
Confuse Level 6 with Level 3
Assume all university study is Level 7
Misunderstand Scottish level numbering
Confuse Foundation Degree with full Bachelor’s
Clarifying the framework avoids mistakes in job applications or immigration processes.
Why Qualification Level Matters
Understanding qualification level is important for:
Job eligibility
Professional registration
Visa applications
Postgraduate entry
Salary banding
Many employers specify:
“Must hold a Level 6 qualification or above.”
This refers to a Bachelor’s degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Level 6 considered higher education?
Yes. Level 4 and above are higher education levels.
Is an HND equivalent to a degree?
No. An HND is Level 5. It is below a full undergraduate degree.
Can you progress from Level 6 to Level 7?
Yes. Completion of Level 6 qualifies you to apply for a Master’s degree (Level 7).
Final Answer Summary
If you are asking what level is an undergraduate degree in the UK:
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland → Level 6
In Scotland → Level 10 (Honours degree)
Credit requirement (England) → 360 credits
Credit requirement (Scotland) → 480 credits (Honours)
An undergraduate degree represents the highest level of study before postgraduate education and demonstrates advanced academic and analytical capability.
