This term has two dimensions:
- Formal qualification: the formal outcome (certificate, diploma or title) of an assessment process which is obtained when a competent body determines that an individual has achieved learning outcomes to given standards and/or possesses the necessary competence to do a job in a specific area of work. A qualification confers official recognition of the value of learning outcomes in the labour market and in education and training. A qualification can be a legal entitlement to practise a trade (OECD);
- Job requirements: knowledge, aptitudes and skills required to perform specific tasks attached to a particular work position (ILO).
Source
Cedefop, 2008, based on Eurydice, 2006; ETF, 1997; OECD, 2007a; ILO, 1998.