What are market qualifications?
Market qualifications are developed alongside traditional qualifications, such as those awarded by schools and higher education institutions. They are designed for individuals of all ages—from secondary school students to experienced professionals—who wish to obtain formal certification for new competencies acquired in the workplace or through self-study.
How are market qualifications created?
The initiative to develop and introduce a new qualification usually comes from institutions or organizations active in the economy or education sectors, most notably training companies. These organizations justify the need for a new qualification based on current or forecasted labor market demands.
The description of a proposed qualification includes detailed information, such as:
- Examples of activities and tasks a certificate holder can perform.
- The approximate number of hours required to master the necessary knowledge and skills.
- A detailed breakdown of the knowledge, skills, and social competences verified by the certificate.
Market qualification certificates feature the official logos of the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) and the Polish Qualifications Framework (PQF). This ensures they are easily recognizable and comparable across the European Union.
The decision to include a market qualification in the system—and subsequently enter it into the official register—is made by the relevant minister responsible for the specific field the qualification covers.
How do I apply to include a market qualification in the IQS?
To submit an application, please review the resources available on the Integrated Qualifications System (IQS) portal under the SUPPORTING MATERIALS tab. There, you will find helpful tips and step-by-step instructions. We also recommend checking the ANNOUNCEMENTS/NEW APPLICATIONS tab, which provides updates on all applications currently under ministerial review.
When is a market qualification entered into the register?
Once an application is submitted, the minister conducts consultations with relevant stakeholders to gather opinions and feedback. An expert team is then convened to assess the need for the qualification, analyze the required learning outcomes in detail, and determine the appropriate PQF level. The Stakeholder Council then reviews the experts’ recommendations. Finally, the minister decides whether to include the qualification in the Integrated Qualifications System. This decision serves as the formal basis for entering the new qualification into the register.
How extensive is the range of market qualifications?
The Integrated Qualifications Register (IQR) offers a diverse and constantly expanding range of qualifications (currently exceeding 200). Most are set at Level 4 of the Polish Qualifications Framework, signifying that the holder is prepared to independently perform specific professional tasks and conduct quality control of their work.
Recent additions to the register include:
- Digital data processing in professional environments using ICT.
- Eyebrow styling
- Professional negotiation
- Academic Trainer: Teaching scientific disciplines using active learning methods
- Investor acquisition and relationship management in public administration
- Intercultural communication and management in multicultural environments
Up-to-date information can be found in the register, which also includes other types of certifications, such as craft qualifications and vocational education diplomas.
How can I obtain a market qualification certificate?
To obtain a certificate, you must apply to an authorized Awarding Body (Certifying Institution). Note that the same qualification may be offered by several different institutions. After your skills and knowledge (learning outcomes) have been verified through an assessment, the awarding body will issue your certificate.
Further information:
If your organization wishes to award certificates aligned with EQF and PQF levels, please visit the tab regarding authorisation as an awarding body.
To learn more about the process of including market qualifications in the integrated system, please refer to our supporting materials.
To stay informed about consultations regarding new applications, please follow the Announcements tab.
If you are interested in participating in the evaluation of applications, please complete the application form. We will notify you when expert recruitment begins.
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