The Department for Education (DfE) is reforming post-16 vocational qualifications at Levels 2 and 3. This includes the introduction of new Level 2 Certificates, Level 3 V Levels and progression pathways for students aged 16–19.
This page explains what we know so far about V Levels, what’s still to come, and how we can support you through the transition.
For first teach in 2027 (Tranche 1), we are planning to offer Level 3 V Levels in:
- Digital Systems and Data
- Education
- Accounting and Finance
Looking for information on the new Level 2 Foundation Certificates?
What are V Levels?
V Levels are new applied vocational qualifications for 16 to 19 learners in England. They are designed to:
- Offer applied learning within broad vocational areas
- Be equivalent in size to one A Level
- Be studied alongside A Levels and other funded Level 3 qualifications.
This flexibility means students can build programmes that keep academic and vocational doors open.
How V Levels compare to T Levels and A Levels
| Feature |
V Level |
T Level |
A Level |
| Size |
Equivalent to 1 A Level |
Large, full-time programme |
Subject-specific |
| Focus |
Broad vocational learning |
Specialist, career-focused |
Academic knowledge |
| Work placement |
Not required |
Mandatory industry placement |
Not required |
Summary:
- V Levels = flexible vocational route
- T Levels = specialist technical route
- A Levels = academic route.
Key timelines and what’s confirmed so far
- First teaching: September 2027
- Subject content confirmed: July 2026 (DfE)
- Assessment approach published: September 2026 (Ofqual)
- Transition period: Up to 4 years for providers to phase in changes.
DfE Implementation Plan: Read our article, Post-16 Implementation Plan confirms V Level subjects (and more) »
What centres can do now
You do not need to change everything immediately. Current advice:
- Download our Transition Toolkit for practical planning
- Audit current provision and identify which students might benefit from V Levels
- Share our update links with staff and stakeholders
- Read about proposals around content and design in our article: Content proposals for V Levels published.
Assessment, Accessibility and SEND
Assessment arrangements for V Levels will be set by Ofqual in 2026. We expect regulation to emphasise:
- Accessibility: Ensuring assessments work for all learners
- SEND considerations: Inclusive, fair design
- Applied approach: Assessment grounded in practical learning.
(We will share regulatory updates as soon as they are confirmed.)
Common questions about V Levels
Q1: What is a V Level?
A V Level is a new Level 3 vocational qualification for 16–19-year-olds designed to combine vocational breadth with academic flexibility.
Q2: When will V Levels start?
DfE plans first teaching from September 2027, with phased introduction over four years.
Q3: How do V Levels compare to T Levels and A Levels?
V Levels are flexible vocational qualifications equivalent to one A Level, while T Levels are more specialised technical qualifications equivalent to three A Levels with a mandatory industry placement
Q4: Can students mix V Levels with A Levels?
Yes. V Levels can be taken with A Levels or other Level 3 qualifications while funding remains in place.