Characteristic Statements also set out what can normally be expected of a graduate in terms of what they may know, understand and be able to do when they receive a particular award. This is important because it helps awarding bodies ensure their qualifications are aligned with agreed sector expectations and consistent with European higher education standards.

They are also used by students and other interested parties, including employers and future education providers, who want to understand the standard of an award, how it compares with similar UK qualifications and how it aligns with awards across the European Higher Education Area. This helps support recognition, comparability and portability of qualifications.

A more consistent structure and language have been adopted so that each statement clearly explains how the award or awards it describes differ from other qualifications at the same level, or at different levels, of the qualifications framework, and how they align with the European Bologna Framework.

A complete and refreshed set of statements covering awards from Levels 4 and 7 through to Levels 8 and 12 will not only support national skills policies but also help provide a clearer pathway of attainment for lifelong learners. The inclusion of a short plain‑English summary for each statement will make the information more accessible, transparent and useful for students, employers and policymakers.