NSQF, RPL, NOSs, SSC

National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF)

The National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) is a competency-based framework that organizes all qualifications according to a series of levels of knowledge, skills and aptitude. These levels, graded from one to ten, are defined in terms of learning outcomes which the learner must possess regardless of whether they are obtained through formal, non-formal or informal learning.


Under NSQF, the learner can acquire the certification for competency needed at any level through formal, non-formal or informal learning. In that sense, the NSQF is a quality assurance framework. Presently, more than 100 countries have, or are in the process of developing national qualification frameworks.


Specific outcomes expected from implementation of NSQF are: 

1. Mobility between vocational and general education by alignment of degrees with NSQF 
2. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), allowing transition from non-formal to organised job market 
3. Standardised, consistent, nationally acceptable outcomes of training across the country through a national quality assurance framework 
4. Global mobility of skilled workforce from India, through international equivalence of NSQF 
5. Mapping of progression pathways within sectors and cross-sectorally 
6. Approval of NOS/QPs as national standards for skill training 

Recognition of Prior Learning:

RPL is a platform to provide recognition to the informal learning or learning through work to get equal acceptance as the formal levels of education. It aims to appreciate prior learning irrespective of the medium of achieving it. In short, RPL is a process of assessment of an individual’s prior learning to give due importance to learning as an outcome rather than learning as process.


Sector Skill Councils are responsible for the creation of QPs and NOSs. These Occupational Standards are open for public viewing for a month on http://www.nsdcindia.org/nos. All those who have participated in development and validation of standards as well as the industry are informed by the SSC that the Occupational Standards have been published for comments.All comments/ feedback received during the period will be responded to by respective Sector Skill Council under intimation to NSDC. After one month of public viewing, these standards will be promulgated as National Standards.

National Occupational Standards (NOSs) specify the standard of performance, knowledge and understanding when carrying out a particular activity in the workplace. Each NOS defines one key function in a job role. Example: For a Sales Associate, one of the NOS would be to 'To help customers choose right products'


QPs – A set of NOSs, aligned to a job role, called Qualification Packs (QPs), would be available for every job role in each industry sector. These drive both the creation of curriculum, and assessments. These job roles would be at various proficiency levels, and aligned to the NSQF. Example would be Qualification Pack of a Sales Associate


For more details Log onto : http://www.skilldevelopment.gov.in/nsqf.html