Characteristics Statements: An Introduction
Publication date: 19 Jun 2026
What are Characteristics Statements?
Characteristics Statements are technical documents published by QAA for the benefit of the UK tertiary sector, as part of its role as the UK’s expert quality body. They describe the distinctive features and structures of different types of qualification awarded at one or more levels of the qualifications frameworks. They describe qualifications in terms of their purpose, general characteristics and typical outcomes, but do not include subject‑level detail.
They also explain what a graduate is normally expected to know, understand and be able to do when they complete a particular award. This helps awarding bodies ensure their qualifications align with sector expectations and with European higher education standards.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, bachelor’s degrees run from Levels 4–6 (alongside qualifications such as foundation degrees and higher national certificates). In Scotland, they run from Levels 7–10. Master’s degrees sit at Levels 7 and 11, and doctoral qualifications at Levels 8 and 12.
Who uses them?
Degree‑awarding bodies
To design new courses and review or revalidate existing ones, using clear information about the structure and purpose of different qualification types.
Students and graduates
To understand what their qualification represents, what they are expected to achieve, and how it compares across the UK.
Employers and education providers
To compare qualifications, understand how they align across the UK and the European Higher Education Area, and support recognition and portability.
Why is QAA updating the Characteristic Statements?
QAA wants to ensure the Statements remain useful, relevant and aligned with the wider suite of sector reference points.
Updates include:
Using internationally recognised terms such as short cycle, first cycle and second cycle, making them clearer and easier to compare
Simplifying structure and language
Showing how each qualification compares with others and how it fits within the European Bologna Framework - a system that organises degrees into bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels
Adding a short plain‑English summary to make each Statement more accessible for students, employers and policymakers
- A refreshed set of Statements covering Levels 4–7 and Levels 8–12 will support national skills priorities and provide clearer pathways for lifelong learners.
Timeline
Short‑cycle Characteristics Statement published July 2026
- Bachelor’s, integrated master’s and master’s Statements reviewed in Q2 2026, with publication planned for October 2026
- Doctoral Characteristics Statement to be developed in the second half of 2026.
