This Inventory provides a broad overview of the status and scope of qualifications frameworks internationally as at the end of 2014. It includes the NQFs of eighty-six countries and seven regional qualifications frameworks (RQFs). The Inventory acts as an observatory of progress and achievement of NQF goals through country case studies. Specifically, the case studies look at the main policy objectives, stakeholder involvement, the framework adopted for implementation, the focus on learning outcomes and the use of level descriptors. They also consider the ways in which the validation of non-formal learning is considered (if any), and how these link to the NQF. The case studies finish with important lessons and future plans.

The global mapping draws on inventories from agencies (the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training [Cedefop], the European Training Foundation [ETF], the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization [UNESCO] and the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning [UIL]) and communication with country officials and experts. It also draws on extensive research in the field of qualifications, as captured in the list of countries and regions covered.