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 to 19 in England.
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 students aged 16 to 19 in England.
They are designed to:
- provide 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 qualification |
| Focus |
Broad vocational learning |
Specialist, career-focused learning |
Academic subject knowledge |
| Industry placement |
Not required |
Mandatory industry placement |
Not required |
| Can be combined with other Level 3 qualifications |
Yes |
Usually forms the main study programme |
Yes |
What we know so far
- Subject content: confirmed by the DfE in July 2026
- Assessment requirements: confirmed by Ofqual in September 2026, including the regulatory framework and subject-level requirements
- Transition period: changes to post-16 qualifications will be phased in over a four-year reform period
We will update this page as further information is confirmed.
DfE Implementation Plan: 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:
- review your current Level 3 vocational provision
- consider which learners could benefit from V Levels
- share V Level updates with colleagues and stakeholders
- read the latest information about proposed content and design: content proposals for V Levels published
- attend our introductory V Level webinars
- support conversations with students and parents by downloading our Options evening toolkit
Assessment, accessibility and SEND
Ofqual has confirmed the regulatory requirements for V Levels, including requirements for assessment design and delivery.
As qualifications are designed, Cambridge OCR will consider:
- accessibility - ensuring assessment works for all learners
- SEND considerations - supporting inclusive and fair assessment
- appropriate assessment methods – ensuring assessment reflects the knowledge and skills being measured
We will publish further guidance as regulatory and qualification requirements are confirmed.
Support for teaching V Levels
As V Levels develop, we will provide support to help centres prepare for teaching and delivery.
Support will include:
- teaching and learning resources
- planning and delivery guidance
- assessment support
- professional development and webinars
- subject support from Cambridge OCR
Teaching resources will be available through Teach Cambridge as they become available.
Common questions about V Levels
What is a V Level?
A V Level is a new Level 3 vocational qualification for students aged 16 to 19 in England. V Levels are designed to combine applied vocational learning with flexibility in students’ programmes of study.
When will V Levels start?
Cambridge OCR plans to begin first teaching of its V Levels from September 2027, with a phased introduction over four years.
How do V Levels compare to T Levels and A Levels?
V Levels are equivalent in size to one A Level and can be studied alongside other Level 3 qualifications. T Levels are larger technical programmes that include an industry placement, while A Levels provide subject-based academic study.
Can students mix V Levels with A Levels?
Yes. V Levels are designed to be studied alongside A Levels or other funded Level 3 qualifications, giving students flexibility in their programmes of study.
Stay up to date
Keep up to date with the latest information as Cambridge OCR develops its V Levels. For questions about V Levels, contact our team.