Polish Qualifications Framework

The modernization of Polish qualifications initiated with the enactment of the Act of 22 December 2015 on the Integrated Qualifications System (Journal of Laws 2016, item 64) is based on the adoption of common principles governing the qualifications operating in different areas. The integrated system consists of elements that already function in Polish society and its economy, as well as new instruments, to effectively integrate the entire system.

Its most significant elements are the Polish Qualifications Framework (PQF) and the Integrated Qualifications Register (IQR), which is a compendium of all qualifications included in the integrated system. These qualifications are also assigned a level in the Polish Qualifications Framework (PQF level).

The first stage of work on the qualifications system began in 2008 with efforts to develop the Polish Qualifications Framework through the project „Development of the balance of competences and qualifications in the labour market in Poland and the National Qualifications Framework model”.

Experts working in the project proposed the first set of level descriptors for qualifications’ levels, including universal descriptors, as well as PQF descriptors for general, higher and vocational education. Their proposal contained seven levels, as level 5 had not been initially developed. The proposal presumed a two-stage design of the PQF.

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