ITQ Exams Process

The ITQ (Information Technology Qualification) is the new IT user qualification and training package that has been created by employers for employers to ensure their staff are trained in IT skills that they need to carry out their roles. ITQ has replaced the National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) for IT and computing in the UK. The new NVQ/SVQ for IT users (ITQ 2010) has been developed as a comprehensive project that involved a full review of the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for IT users. The ITQ portfolio is predominately completed using Microsoft Office products and can be mapped to the ECDL syllabus.

ITQ Improving Productivity Using IT Unit (BCS)

The ITQ Improving Productivity Using IT module was introduced into the ECDL syllabus to allow candidates to demonstrate the practical application of the skills they have learnt in the application units. In the Improving Productivity Using IT test learners are required to make choices about the applications (Word-Processing, Spreadsheets, Databases and Presentations) and tools they use, independently. This ITQ unit forms part of the level 2 & 3 Flexiqual certificate and is a scenario multiple choice assessment. Other units from the ECDL portfolio that can be used towards the new ECDL - ITQ qualifications are those from the Digital Creator range.

ITQ Assessment Methods

ITQ has two module assessment methods available. These include via a manually tested route, which uses a series of scenarios created by BCS (British Computer Society). Portfolio of evidence is also available via two separate sections (Performance and Knowledge). Candidates will have 1 hour to complete both sections (Performance and Knowledge), which are made up of a scenario and also twelve multiple choice questions to cover the knowledge items. The pass mark is 75% for performance and 75% for knowledge and a candidate must pass both parts to successfully achieve the module.

ITQ Level 1 Certification

To gain the ITQ Level 1 certificate in "IT User Skills", learners must pass all three modules, Security for IT Users, IT User Fundamentals, Using Email and the Internet.

ITQ Level 2 Certification

To gain the ITQ Level 2 certificate in "IT User Skills", learners must pass all four modules, Word-Processing, Spreadsheets, Databases and Presentations.

ITQ Level 3 Certification

To gain the ITQ Level 3 certificate in "IT User Skills" learners must learners must pass all five of the advanced modules, Advanced Word-Processing, Advanced Spreadsheets, Advanced Databases, Advanced Presentations and Advanced Improving Productivity Using IT.

ITQ Accreditation

ITQ qualifications are recognised by QCF (Qualifications and Credit Framework). QCF is the official framework for accrediting qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. ITQ equivalents are as follows:

ITQ Test Centres

There are hundreds of ITQ test centres based in the UK, to find yours, simply select this local test centre page.

ITQ Flexibility of Assessment

As with previous versions of the ITQ, there is no single way to assess ITQ units. ITQ awarding organisations (BCS) recognise a number of contributing units (ECDL) and qualifications which can be mapped to one or more ITQ units.

ITQ Exam Retakes

ITQ exam retakes are available; please speak to your local testing centre. Learners are encouraged to assess their weaker areas and gain the required knowledge via course materials to pass, prior to their second attempt. For more information on course materials and download a FREE ITQ practice samples for ITQ, please select our Microsoft Office page.

ITQ Costs

ITQ costs maybe incurred and can vary. Some companies may reimburse their employees with a training allowance, please consult your HR manager if applicable. There are over 2,000 local testing centres throughout the UK and most local colleges and universities will offer testing facilities to home study learners. Learners must register prior to their first exam via their local testing centre (10-14 days recommended), identification is required usually in the form of a utility bill and passport or driving licence. A one off administration fee may be incurred of approximately £50 - £70, please contact your local testing centre for more information. For more information on ITQ costs, please speak to your local testing centre.

ITQ Assessment Methods

ITQ has two module assessment methods available. These include via a manually tested route, which uses a series of scenarios created by BCS (British Computer Society). Portfolio of evidence is also available via two separate sections (Performance and Knowledge). Candidates will have 1 hour to complete both sections (Performance and Knowledge), which are made up of a scenario and also twelve multiple choice questions to cover the knowledge items. The pass mark is 75% for performance and 75% for knowledge and a candidate must pass both parts to successfully achieve the module. ITQ qualifications can be studied via self-study courses to find out more and get FREE ITQ course samples, please visit our ITQ course page.