qualification

Qualification refers to the status of being fit or eligible for a particular role, task, or opportunity, demonstrated by possessing a credential, completing required training, or meeting specified criteria. In everyday use, the term often denotes formal credentials awarded by educational or professional bodies, but it can also describe the process of meeting conditions to participate in an activity. Qualifications serve as evidence of competence and are used by employers, licensing authorities, and educational institutions to assess readiness.

Common forms of qualification include academic degrees (such as a high school diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate), professional licenses (for example medical licenses, bar admission, teaching certificates, or engineering licensure), and industry-specific certifications (including information technology, project management, and safety certifications). Vocational qualifications, such as apprenticeships and national or professional diplomas, are also widespread. Many countries employ qualification frameworks to standardize levels of learning, such as the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) or national systems, to facilitate comparison and mobility of credentials.

Acquisition typically involves formal study, examinations, and assessments of practical competence, or recognized professional experience. Some qualifications require periodic renewal or continuing education to maintain currency. Recognition of qualifications can be national or international, with mechanisms like accreditation, degree recognition agreements, and recognition of prior learning (RPL). Employers and regulators often set minimum qualifications for specific roles, and criteria can vary by field and jurisdiction. In addition to credentialing, qualification can also refer to meeting criteria to participate in events or competitions.