Upon completing the APEL.Q process, candidates will receive Ofqual UK.Gov qualification, officially recognized at the national level in the UK and aligned with the European Qualifications Framework and other national qualification frameworks. In the United States and Canada, where there is no unified national qualification framework like in Europe, candidates seeking immigration, employment, or recognition in these countries are usually required to obtain accreditation through WES. The following article analyzes the value of qualifications and provides a detailed guide on registering an OTHM qualification with WES.
1. Overview of UK National Qualifications (Regulated Qualification Framework – RQF)
Qualifications issued by Ofqual UK.Gov-approved awarding bodies are officially recognized and regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual). These qualifications fall under the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), ensuring compliance with strict educational and professional standards.
For official information, please visit:
🔗 Ofqual UK Government Website: HERE
🔗 Explanation of RQF Levels: HERE
Relationship with International Qualification Frameworks
- Europe (EQF – European Qualifications Framework): RQF qualifications are mapped to EQF levels, facilitating recognition across the EU.
- Australia (AQF – Australian Qualifications Framework): RQF qualifications align with AQF, supporting qualification recognition in Australia.
- ASEAN (AQRF – ASEAN Qualifications Reference Framework): RQF qualifications meet AQRF standards, aiding recognition in ASEAN countries.
- United States & Canada: Unlike Europe and Australia, the US and Canada do not have a unified national qualifications framework. Instead, RQF qualifications are generally recognized through independent evaluation organizations such as World Education Services (WES).
2. Candidates Completing APEL.Q Receive UK National Competency Qualifications:
Through APEL.Q, qualifications from Ofqual UK.Gov Awarding Bodies are awarded upon successful completion of the program and passing an independent EPA assessment. As officially recognized UK government qualifications, candidates benefit from:
✅ Official UK certification, ensuring legality and international value.
✅ Recognition across Europe through EQF, enhancing opportunities for study and employment.
✅ Highly valued by employers, focusing on practical skills and workplace application.
✅ Pathway for further education, particularly in countries with compatible qualification frameworks.
3. Recognition of RQF Qualifications in the United States and Canada via WES
Since the US and Canada do not have a unified national qualification framework, candidates seeking recognition of their UK RQF qualification need to apply through World Education Services (WES). WES is one of the most reputable credential evaluation agencies in North America, recognized by many employers and universities.
Process for WES Recognition of RQF Qualifications
Based on guidelines from the OTHM Digital Certificate Portal, the process includes the following steps:
- Log in to your OTHM Digital Certificate Portal account.
- Select “Add connection” to add a recipient organization.
- Enter WES details, including:
- Recipient name: “WES (Reference Number)”
- Recipient email: submit@wes.org
- Select both qualification and transcript, then click “Share Documents”.
- ⚠ Note: Failure to submit both documents may result in WES rejecting your application.
- Track application status on the OTHM Digital Certificate Portal.
🔗 Video guide on WES submission: HERE
For further details, please visit the official website of World Education Services (WES):
🔗 WES Canada: HERE
🔗 WES USA: HERE
Note:
- The information provided is accurate at the time of publication. WES, Ofqual UK.Gov, and awarding bodies may change policies without prior notice. Candidates should verify the latest requirements directly with the relevant authorities.
- Qualification recognition is subject to national and regional qualification frameworks, and each country may have its own regulations that can change without notice.
- For additional support regarding qualification recognition or program details, please contact a APEL.Q consultation representative.