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MQF Levels Malta: Complete Guide to the Malta Qualifications Framework
What Are MQF Levels?
The Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF) is Malta’s national system for classifying qualifications across 8 levels, from Level 1 (secondary school certificate) to Level 8 (doctorate). Each level is defined by learning outcomes across three pillars: knowledge, skills, and competence. The MQF is managed by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) and maps directly onto the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).
Whether you are a student deciding which course to take, an employer assessing a candidate’s qualifications, or a professional looking to upskill, understanding MQF levels helps you compare qualifications across Malta, the EU, and the UK.
MQF Levels at a Glance
| MQF/EQF Level | RQF (UK) Equivalent | Qualification Type | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Entry Level 3 | School Leaving Certificate | SEC passes |
| Level 2 | RQF Level 1 | Secondary Education Certificate | SEC/O-Level passes |
| Level 3 | RQF Level 2 | Upper Secondary / MCAST Foundation | Matriculation Certificate, MCAST Foundation |
| Level 4 | RQF Level 3 | Post-Secondary Certificate / Foundation Diploma | Advanced Diploma, A-Levels, Foundation Diplomas |
| Level 5 | RQF Level 4–5 | Undergraduate Diploma / Higher Diploma | HND, Diploma programmes |
| Level 6 | RQF Level 6 | Bachelor’s Degree | BA, BSc, Top-Up Degrees |
| Level 7 | RQF Level 7 | Master’s Degree / Postgraduate Diploma | MA, MSc, MBA, PgDip |
| Level 8 | RQF Level 8 | Doctorate | PhD, Professional Doctorate |
Source: Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA). The MQF maps directly onto the EQF. For a detailed comparison, see our guide to MQF vs EQF Levels.
How MQF Levels Convert Internationally
One of the MQF’s biggest advantages is international portability. The framework maps directly onto the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), meaning an MQF Level 6 qualification in Malta is equivalent to an EQF Level 6 across all EU member states. This makes Maltese qualifications recognised throughout Europe.
The MQF also aligns closely with the UK’s Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), although the numbering differs slightly at lower levels. For example, an MQF Level 4 corresponds to an RQF Level 3, while from Level 5 upwards the frameworks align more closely. For a detailed breakdown of how RQF and EQF relate, see our guide on RQF vs EQF levels.
If you hold a qualification from overseas and need it formally recognised in Malta, you’ll need an MQRIC statement from the MFHEA. This official document confirms the MQF level of your foreign qualification. Read our step-by-step guide on how to get your MQRIC statement.
What Each MQF Level Means in Practice
MQF Level 4 is the entry point to post-secondary education. It’s equivalent to A-Levels or a Foundation Diploma and is the minimum requirement for many entry-level professional roles in Malta.
MQF Level 5 represents an undergraduate diploma — the most popular starting point for working professionals looking to upskill. Level 5 Diplomas typically require 60–120 ECTS credits and can be completed in 1–2 years. Many of our online diploma courses are at this level.
MQF Level 6 is a full Bachelor’s degree (180–240 ECTS). If you already hold an MQF Level 5 Diploma, you can top up to a Level 6 degree with just one additional year of study.
MQF Level 7 covers Master’s degrees and Postgraduate Diplomas. These typically require 60–120 ECTS credits on top of a Bachelor’s degree and are increasingly sought by employers for management and specialist roles.
How to Progress Through MQF Levels
One of the strengths of the MQF framework is that it supports flexible progression. You don’t always need to start from Level 1 and work your way up sequentially.
Mature students with work experience can often enter directly at MQF Level 5 (subject to approval from the relevant academic board). This is the most common pathway for working adults returning to education — you can gain a recognised Diploma while studying online and part-time.
From a Level 5 Diploma, you can progress to a Level 6 Bachelor’s degree through a top-up degree programme — typically one additional year of study. This makes it the fastest route to a full degree for diploma holders.
Many students also benefit from the Get Qualified Scheme, a Maltese government initiative that refunds 70% of tuition fees for courses rated MQF Level 3 and above. Check out our complete guide to see if you’re eligible.
Frequently Asked Questions About MQF Levels
What does MQF stand for?
MQF stands for the Malta Qualifications Framework. It is the national system used to classify all qualifications in Malta across 8 levels based on learning outcomes.
Is MQF the same as EQF?
The MQF maps directly onto the EQF (European Qualifications Framework), so MQF Level 5 equals EQF Level 5. The two frameworks use the same numbering system (Levels 1–8). For a full comparison, see MQF vs EQF: Are They the Same?
What MQF level is a degree?
A Bachelor’s degree is MQF Level 6. A Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma is MQF Level 7. A Doctorate (PhD) is MQF Level 8.
What is MQF Level 4 equivalent to?
MQF Level 4 is equivalent to A-Levels, a Matriculation Certificate, or an RQF Level 3 qualification in the UK. It represents the first stage of post-secondary education. Learn more in our MQF Level 4 guide.
Can I skip MQF levels?
Yes. Mature learners with relevant work experience can often enter at MQF Level 5 without formally holding a Level 4 qualification, subject to academic board approval.
Can I get a refund on my tuition fees?
Through the Get Qualified Scheme, you can receive 70% of your tuition fees back as a tax credit after completing an approved course at MQF Level 3 or above.
Study Online with Elephant & Cross
We partner with accredited universities and institutions offering online, part-time programmes across all MQF levels:
- MQF Level 4: Foundation Diplomas
- MQF Level 5: Diploma Programmes in Business, IT, HR, Accounting, and more
- MQF Level 6: Bachelor’s Degrees via top-up routes
- MQF Level 7: Master’s Degrees & Postgraduate Diplomas
All our courses are internationally recognised and eligible for the Get Qualified Scheme. Browse our courses or get in touch to find the right programme for you.
Last updated: March 2026. Information sourced from the MFHEA and Malta Qualifications Database.
