Royal Air Force Technical qualifications
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Some RAF specialisations require a science or technology subject as part of their pre-entry educational qualifications. Below is a list of alternative acceptable qualifications.
Note that for single subjects a grade 4 (GCSE) or C (National 5) or better must be achieved, unless stated otherwise. For GCSE double award science, a grade of 4/4 is required.
The list is not exhaustive. If you think you have an acceptable alternative qualification, apply and an RAF Recruiter will consider your application. Although several of our roles require technical qualifications, many others require different types and levels of qualification and some do not require any qualifications.
GCSE / National 5 subjects that are ACCEPTABLE
|
Subject |
Qualification (GCSE Grade 4 / National 5 Grade C or better unless stated otherwise) |
|
Applied Science (must also have Single Award Science) |
GCSE - At least Grade 4 in each |
|
CDT - Electronic Products |
GCSE |
|
Design and Technology |
GCSE |
|
Combined /Coordinated / Double Science |
At least GCSE Grade 4/4 |
|
Control Technology |
GCSE |
|
D & T Resistant Materials Technology |
GCSE |
|
D & T Systems and Control Technology |
GCSE |
|
Electricity and Electronics |
National 5 |
|
Electronic Engineering |
GCSE |
|
Electronics |
GCSE |
|
Engineering Science |
National 5 |
|
Engineering Skills |
National 5 |
|
Engineering / Engineering Studies |
GCSE |
|
Physical Science |
National 5 |
|
Physics |
Single science GCSE / National 5 |
|
Single Award Science (must also have Applied Science) |
GCSE - At least Grade 4 in each |
|
Technical Studies |
National 5 |
|
Technologies |
National 5 |
|
Technology and Design |
GCSE |
Vocational Qualifications that are ACCEPTABLE
|
Subject |
Qualification Level |
|
Aeronautical Engineering |
NVQ Level 2 |
|
Aeronautics |
NVQ Level 2 |
|
Aeronautical Engineering Craft Studies Pt 3 |
Pt 3 C & G |
|
Applied Science |
BTEC First Certificate / NC / HNC |
|
Applied Science with Technology |
NVQ Level 2 |
|
Aviation Studies |
BTEC Intermediate |
|
Electrical and Electronic Servicing |
NVQ Level 2 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
NVQ Level 3 |
|
Electrical Installation Theory and Practice |
NVQ Level 3 |
|
Engineering and Technology |
EAL Intermediate Certificate / EMTA Advanced Diploma |
|
Erecting and Maintaining Aerial Equipment |
NVQ Level 2 |
|
Inspection, testing and certification of electrical installations |
NVQ Level 3 |
|
Knowledge of Electrical Installation Engineering |
NVQ Level 3 |
|
Motor Vehicle Mechanics |
NVQ Level 2 |
|
Operating and Maintaining the Performance of Telecomms Equipment |
NVQ Level 3 |
|
Performing Engineering operations |
NVQ Level 2 |
|
Plumbing |
NVQ Level 2 |
|
Science for Technicians |
BTEC Level 2 |
|
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair |
NVQ Level 3 |
This page was last updated on November 18, 2025
