kwalificatie

Kwalificatie is a term used to describe the process of qualifying for a role, task, or status, as well as the set of documented credentials that attests to a person’s competence. In this sense, kwalificatie refers both to the capacity to perform a function and to the formal evidence that such capacity has been demonstrated, such as a diploma, certificate, license, or other qualification document.

In education and professional life, kwalificaties are earned through learning, training, or assessment. They can be formal, issued by educational institutions or professional bodies, or informal, reflecting recognized competences. Qualification frameworks organize these credentials by level and descriptor of learning outcomes, facilitating comparison and progression. In many regions, mechanisms exist to align national qualifications with international standards, such as the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), which links levels across countries.

Recognition of qualifications involves evaluating and validating credentials obtained elsewhere, enabling portability and access to education or employment. Terms like recognition of prior learning and credential evaluation are commonly used, along with mechanisms for recognizing non-formal and informal learning. In Dutch contexts, the concept of erkenning van verworven competenties (EVC) describes the process of recognizing competences gained outside formal education.

In sports and competitions, kwalificatie also denotes the process of earning a place in a higher round, event, or tournament, typically through a qualification round or series of matches. The concept broadly highlights assessed capability and the formal or informal documentation that supports an individual’s eligibility for a given role or opportunity.

Overall, kwalificatie connects education, professional credentials, cross-border recognition, and competitive eligibility in a framework of demonstrable competence.