BTECs are career-focused British qualifications taken by over 1 million learners every year and are recognised in more than 70 countries worldwide. Established in 1984, these prestigious qualifications were created by Pearson in the United Kingdom in close collaboration with top industry experts. This industry input ensures that your students acquire the practical, job-oriented skills that are in high demand across the globe.
What’s more, BTEC Higher Nationals can serve as a stepping stone to higher-level studies, such as a bachelor's or master's degree, providing your students with an accessible route to advance their education and career prospects. With BTEC, you can offer a recognised qualification that gives your learners an affordable way to progress and grow their careers—both locally and internationally.
Benefits of BTEC International qualifications
Internationally recognised qualifications
Recognized by 300* universities and employers worldwide, increasing students' opportunities for further education and employment.
High-quality education
Serves as a stepping stone to bachelor's or master's degrees, advancing your learners’ education and career prospects globally.
Cost-effective
Affordable qualification offering valuable and international education at a fraction of traditional costs.
Flexible and customisable
The customizable nature of these programs allows to tailor them to meet specific market needs, setting them apart from local offerings.
BTEC International Level 2
BTEC International Level 2 offers learners aged 14 and above the knowledge, understanding, and skills they need to prepare for a career or continue in further education. These flexible, modular courses fit easily into your existing curriculum and cover a range of sectors for young learners who want to explore work-related qualifications.
BTEC International Level 3
BTEC International Level 3 offers learners aged 16 and above the knowledge, understanding, and skills they need to prepare for a career, continue in further education, or progress to higher education. These courses are recognised by many universities and higher education institutions worldwide as entry qualifications for relevant first-year degrees and Higher National programmes.
Learn more about Level 3
BTEC International Level 3 University Recognition
BTEC Higher Nationals Levels 4 & 5
The BTEC Higher Nationals is a two-year programme following the BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma, providing internationally recognised qualifications at Levels 4 and 5. Together with the BTEC International Level 3, it is equivalent to the first three years of a university degree, offering a clear pathway to further education and employment. This programme is ideal for students seeking an affordable and practical route to a bachelor's or master's degree. Graduates can enter the workforce or complete an additional year to earn a bachelor's degree at local universities or transfer to one of our partner universities abroad, including in the UK, USA, Canada, and UAE.
Higher Nationals Partner map
Learn more about Higher Nationals
Where can BTEC take you?
Explore BTEC levels, qualification equivalence and progression routes to further study or employment.
BTEC sectors
Pearson BTEC offers qualifications in over 24 subject areas, including ICT, Business & Management, Health & Social Care, Sport and Leisure, Creative Arts, E-sports etc. Developed with input from industry experts, BTEC qualifications ensure that students acquire skills aligned with modern workforce standards and meet the demands of today’s job market.